Look what I found!!

[birdgirl]

if you have been thinking about getting a new bird this is the time I found a place(I don't know where) they are selling out all there birds there is even a free cockatoo http://www.birdfinderinc.com/

[Mrs.Birdy]

Incredible....I wish they were closer to me. What great prices. I wonder if the birds are in good shape?

[crazeemama]

Trust me, there is no such thing as a "free" bird. These are all breeder birds, probably older birds.
i have no idea how long it would take to train a bird like this to be a pet.
I do know that at this point in my life i would not even undertake a cockatoo that was in good condition and wasn't phobic or anything. I just don't feel i have the knowledge or resources at this point to deal with the many potential problems and 'baggage'they may have. - perhaps later once i have all my guys that have been neglected trained better, but i think i will just admire (and i do) the cockatoos from afar.

[Shockadine]

Those are really good prices. I wonder how old the Timneh pair is. I'd love to have a proven pair of Timnehs.

[Jenny]

They are really good prices, but I'd definitely have to see the birds and their living conditions before ever thinking of buying one! It kind of makes me wonder what with quite a few being feather pickers and other things. And like Crazeemama said, there's no such thing as a "free" bird! My sharp-tail was free, but the money it's taken to pay for a nice new cage, a good diet, new toys and perches, vet work, etc. has been alot. However, I hope all those birds find good homes or at least can spend the rest of their lifes in a nice aviary or something!

[crazeemama]

I don't think it is unsusual for breeders to be "plucked" or missing toes. but they are generally untame birds that have not been worked with besides perhaps servicing the cages. Also They may be old enough to be "Wild caught" i think the ban on imports went into effect in '92 or so. - But hey, it doesn't hurt to ask questions (like can the "free" cockatoo still perch with the missing toes? or will it need special ramps etc.) - just some more things to think about.
I still would only recommend(that is not the right word) this type of bird for a very experienced person. I think you would have to didicate ALOT more time to turning one of these birds into a pet. But i know it can be done. But not by me; not now.
I do hope these poor guys can find a good home or at least a
place where they can get out of breeding for awhile.

[Jenny]

I agree. About the breeders being feather-pickers, I've heard about quite a few who are, however that never happens in the wild so it's got to be something in captivity that's not right and is making them feel they need to pluck their or their mate's feathers.