Captive vs. Companion

[The Pinkertons]

I often read about Captive vs. Companion in Aviculture and quite often, encounter the two intertwined within the scope of companion birds and breeders alike. I believe this to be erroneous.

Would be interesting to learn others views on this and most helpful for newcomers, venturing into the world of aviculture.

[Mare]

Are not most companion birds captive? In Amigo's case he was strictly companion and if I thought it could be possible, they would all be that way.

[Dragonlady2]

I think that as bird/parrot owners that have them in our homes, most of us consider them to be companion birds, not pet or captive birds. However, I am guessing that if you ask non- bird people, they would consider them to be captive. This would be defined by the fact that most parrots are caged at some point during the day. The cage alone defines it for them....jmo.
The relationship is so different between caregiver and parrot versus caregiver and dog, cat etc. The love may be the same, but the interaction between companion birds and their caregivers is on a different plane.
I have had many "pets" in my lifetime, from raccoons to ferrets to rabbits. None of the relationships with those pets can compare to my relationships with my birds. That's just my experience. I am sure, others will feel differently.

[Casper's 2nd best friend]

Before Casper came to live with us I was not in favour of caged animals or animals kept purely for the gratification or ego of their possessors. When we became custodians I suddenly became aware of how much more there was to Casper than just a noisy bird in a small cage, that he has a character of his own and a mind of his own. So now he lives with us his cage is rarely closed except for his own safety. It is more of a climbing frame/gymnasium and sleeping room and sanctuary and dining room.
I often get asked when I explain that he is allowed out in the garden "Doesn't he fly off?" to which I reply "well no, otherwise he wouldn't still be here!"
He stays with us because he so chooses and he knows we look after his safety - we are his flock and we love him.
I would rather that he was with a flock of other parrots but I don't know whether he would agree.
I've put it as best I can but feel free to ask questions or criticise.

[The Pinkertons]

My definition of captive vs. companion are those that were of a few generations ago" wild caught" . The avian we now share our live with are mostly domestically bred, true they are considered exotic and inherently wild in nature . As I see it, I do not think we could expect our companion birds to naturalize themselves in a wild flock dynamic, given the imprint they have been subjected to in their controlled environment within human/avian association . I see this with my own birds, out of default they have learned to imprint with us, therefore it s our responsibility to fulfill our end of this human/ avian relationship.

[Casper's 2nd best friend]

Aye, a responsibility that many humans don't seem to be able to fulfill :(

[The Pinkertons]

Aye, a responsibility that many humans don't seem to be able to fulfill :(
Truer words were never spoken, our collective efforts as advocates in this cause are the foundation for enhanced quality of life for our feathered friends.

[Dragonlady2]

I would agree that most parrots that are domestically bred would make poor candidates for returning or attempting some form of naturalization. What we value most, which is their connection to us as their flockmates, is the very deterrent to any form of natural existence. However, with the advances in technology such as the Internet, I believe that at least for a lot of companion birds, their lives have been enriched beyond anything that happened for them years ago.

The bigger issue, I think, is that too many people don't feel they should have to change their lifestyle when they have a parrot.

[The Pinkertons]

The bigger issue, I think, is that too many people don't feel they should have to change their lifestyle when they have a parrot.

I concur , that seems the case with most . it is better than it used to be , much work still needs to be done.

[PlaxMacaws]

The terms "captive", "companion" and "family member", which many bird guardians use when describing their flock mates, seem nearly (or fully) appropriate for describing the younger human children in our families as well. Within the first decade of life or so, human kids are typically expected to abide by similar restrictions to those we impose upon our companion parrots (mainly for health & safety reasons). While none of these impositions seem ideal... health and safety must come first for kids and fids alike!

I sincerely wish each of our beloved feathered companions were able to live as Amigo lived! But for so many reasons in so many cases, that's simply not possible :(. However, maximum accommodations should certainly be afforded where and whenever they can. Folks who cannot (or will not) accommodate these wonderful, intelligent creatures beyond a caged life that lacks necessary enrichments should not be in the role of avian guardianship (in my opinion).

[Cedardave]

I think the differance is quite basic.A companion bird,while technically captive in that it doesnt have the freedom of choice to move,forage and explore its natural habitat,is none the less reliant upon the human caregiver.It falls on the human to offer as much stimulation,freedom and companionship as is possable.Since the domestication of birds as pets, they are all captivevwithin our homes or aviaries.As such,those that truely care for these creatures as companions must spend the time necessary to offer them a fulfilling life.Those unwilling to put in the time,money,space and research on the needs of the specific type of bird they desire, are best suited to a lovely framed painting of one to admire without the effort.Otherwise you must consider..no more vacations without appropriate care,life on their schedule.We owe them for the love they give us...they are never temporary whims ,nor are they "disposable".It drives me nuts to see all the ads online...."moving but cant take bird with...must rehome"...I dont know anyone that would select a new home and would have to rehome their children...what is the differance.They grow with you, you learn together and yes even count on one another.Companion=Family=Forever until the end.
Just my 2cents worth

[Mare]

So true, Dave. I suppose some people just don't make enough room in their heart/lives to include their bird.

[The Pinkertons]

Thank you all for your in-depth analogy of the human/ avian co-existence of Captive Companion Birds. Anyone seeking to enrich their companion birds life will take away from these discussions, the essential knowledge for a healthy happy bond between human and avian.

[Casper's 2nd best friend]

Truer words were never spoken, our collective efforts as advocates in this cause are the foundation for enhanced quality of life for our feathered friends.

Yay! Go PP. Keep spreading the word.

[The Pinkertons]

Yay! Go PP. Keep spreading the word.
Our feathered friends need more people like you...your one of their best voices out there for captive companion birds.
Thanks Jean-Pierre your efforts are appreciated :th_grouphug2:

[Casper's 2nd best friend]

Not just me (blush), all of us.

[The Pinkertons]

Not just me (blush), all of us.

Jean-Pierre

Yes all of us here on P.P. ...a step above the rest! :colorflash: