Guten Tag, Germany!
We arrived in May and have more or less settled in here in Stuttgart. My German is terrible, but I have managed to navigate the bakery (yum!) and have learned how to drive over here. On the whole, everyone has been very kind, though there are definitely some moments of culture shock here and there.
Our equipment (cages, nest boxes, etc.) arrived largely intact, though we will need to acquire the electrical components (brooders, lights, air filters) here due to the voltage difference.
Now, for the exciting news: we've connected with local experts who are willing to work with us to establish our Aviary here! I am thrilled for the opportunity and can't wait to learn everything I can from their decades of experience.
As for what breed we've settled on, eagle-eyed readers will likely have noticed that the site has changed. This has been a natural evolution of our interest, research, and interactions with various birds. Although I find a lot to love with many different species, for the sake of depth and focused experience we have decided to work exclusively with the Madagascan Lovebird (also known as the Grey-Headed Lovebird, scientific name Agapornis canus).
There are several reasons we decided to work with Madagascan Lovebirds. First, and most obviously, they're absolutely adorable. The males are striking, and the females are subtly beautiful. Maybe that makes me shallow, but I just think they're cute!
Second, we want to work with a species that isn't already common in the pet trade. Madagascan Lovebirds are rare as pets due to their being reportedly difficult to breed - a reputation which my new mentors do not dispute. However, I truly believe that with time, patience, and aforementioned mentorship, we will be able to have success with this species.
Finally, we wanted to work with a species that is still approachable as a pet despite not already being present in the pet trade. We want to be able to place birds with loving families and not just with those already in the know, though of course we welcome bird experts as well! We feel that the Madagascan Lovebird is a great fit as both the amazing new bird on the block and your new best friend.
We look forward to updating you all as we build our aviary!
Stay Chirpy,
Christina
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