RH>I have a male Umbrella 'Too that was in a breeding program about a year
RH>or so ago.
RH>the Vet's test were normal, and he is in fine health.  Should I try to
RH>find him a companion, or someone that has more experience with the
RH>breeding of 'Too's and get him a mate?
First off, I'd have strangled the kid who caused the birds such
terror...just my opinion.
As for the male 'too, it sounds to me like he needs a mate. BUT be
warned--some cockatoos never accept another mate--a friend of mine has a
hen whose mate was sold (stupid prior owner split a proven bonded pair).
The hen has refused all other males offered to her since then,
preferring to mutilate her chest instead. Your bird may not be so fussy,
but you should be aware that it can happen.
I'm no cockatoo expert, but if he were mine, I'd try another mate. BUT
I'd set them up in a HUGE cage, with multiple places for a hen to hide
if he attacks her. A next box with two exit doors, branches she can run
under, etc., and I'd clip the male's wings, but not the hen's.
If you want to talk to a "real cockatoo person", and you have internet
access, drop a note to Bobbi Brinker at bobbib@msn.com
Bobbi used to hang out here on Parrots until her local bbs went under,
and she's very cockatoo knowledgeable--I'm sure she'd have some good
advice for you.
--Kathy
 * SLMR 2.1a * Birds: proof that 'heavier than air' can fly.
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