Both can (and usually) are VERY loud and needy. But if I had my choice I get the U2. If you don't know a lot about Cockatoo's, especially the 2 you're interested in, they are definitely NOT for beginners. If you know a lot about other birds i.e. parrots, then do tons of research before committing to either of those 2 birds.
Hi!
Well...I have had budgies before....but I have had and trained lots of other animals like dogs horses etc.So I know how to train an animal to be obedient without necessarily punishing it....Do you think a parrot is not for me?I was pretty confident that I can handle them and have read a lot of books on training...but this is the best advice I can get from other parrot owners so please feel free to say what you think
I wouldn't think a parrot is not for you, its just that 2 of the most difficult birds to keep are Moluccans and Umbrellas. A good friend of mine used to own a exotic bird store and he would not sell Moluccans and only on rare occasions would he sell Umbrellas. The 2 birds that showed up at his store for consignment sale were Moluccans and Umbrellas. I'm just trying to let you know what you might be getting into. Birds are not trained like dogs or horses. Easier Cockatoos to keep are Sulfur Crested and Goffins. Some people's first bird were a M2's or a U2's and they made great pets, its just that you have to be VERY committed. Remember Cockatoo's are a life long commitment.
Fantastic advice Willis T's Dad. You're right on the money.
I'm owned by an M2 for almost 11 years. Tango was my family's first parrot. Fortunately for us we have had friends from The Gabrielfoundation who have helped us through difficult times with our Moluccan.
Cockatoos in general and U2's and M2's specifically need a great deal of attention and challenges. You can watch this vimeo video of Tango on one of his many escapes. He can unlock 2 kiwi latches in less then 5 minutes. Both cockatoos are fierce wood chewers and if you can't make the toys then be prepared to spend $30-$50 a month minimum on challenging toys. Both birds are extremely loud. Parrots are noisy in general and U2's and M2's calls to the flock are ear piercing.
On the postive side Tango is a natural clown and is a joy to be with 95% of the time.
In the past 11 years I've had 3 dogs, 4 cats 3 horses and 6 Alpacas. Nothing compares to the time commitment that an M2 demands.
If you're ready for a 3 hour commitment per day 7 days a week and can stand the noise then a M2 is a great bird. Ask me if my second parrot is going to be and M2 or a U2
I am a musician so its not like I work from nine to five.I am home most of the day-probably out for maximum four hours.Could anyone record their umbrella for me so I can hear exactly how loud they are?And Yes of course I am committed to 3 hours per day seven days a week if not more!The only thing that has scared me a little bit is what you have said about the noise...I am prepared for a certain amount of noise...but just how much noise do they make?
Unfortunately many Cockatoo's make more noise than their owners can stand, remember this noise will be made for the life of the bird. the only way to no how ear piecing the noise can be is to hear it in person, believe me they are VERY LOUD. A recording played back on your computer would not even be close. You need to find a store or breeder or zoo that has adult Cockatoos to understand. Remembe, I'm not telling not to buy one I'm just telling to know what you might be getting into. Something else to remember is our lives sometimes change which can adversely effect a bird especially a Cockatoo. Why don't you consider an African Grey? Read as many books on Cockatoo's as you can find.
moluccan or umbrella?
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