Congo African Grey
Chris & Barb H. in Washington wrote:

Hi!
 
She is a very special little girl who already has her Daddy wrapped around her little foot.  She always wants to be out with everyone and has had a busy day meeting everyone.  We own a tow company and all the drivers have been here today to meet her!   She lets out a little chirp when she feels she is not getting all the attention or wants out of her cage.  She has given everyone kisses.  My three year old granddaughter was even holding her.  She has already figured out that no one can come into the house without walking by her cage.
 
She was a little overwhelmed with her cage as it is pretty big, but that will only take a couple of days to get used to.  She is eating very well (apple, grapes, banana, kiwi, green beans, pear, bean sprouts, and even tried for the cookie in my mouth).
 
I will send you pics here soon, and will try to be good about sending updated pics every now and then.  Please keep in touch.  You both did such an awesome job of raising her.  I have never seen a bird come so well socialized.
 
Again Thank you!

Chris & Barb

Dear Joe & Mary,

Our beautiful White-Bellied Caique, Siepe, that we purchased from you a few weeks ago continues to delight us in the most surprising ways.  She is very much a clown and loves to entertain, but her true charm is how pleasant she is with Bob and me.  She was tame from the beginning, and her lovely sound greets us as soon as she sees us each morning.  We love having her with us and must admit that she thinks she "rules the roost", which she probably does!

Our best treat was the arrival of our grandsons this past week.  I'm sure you remember that the boys urged us to get "just one more bird"--a parrot--for them.  Since they live in Massachusetts and have a cat, we know only too well whose bird Siepe is but love playing this game with Avi and Jeremy.  They came to her very gently and patiently (which isn't easy for a 4 and 8 year old), but she was very frightened at first.  Within hours, Avi was her best friend (Jeremy preferred to watch his brother with Siepe!)  I think you can tell from the enclosed photo how bonded Avi and Siepe became.  Bob and I are thrilled.

Thank you so much for Siepe and for your guidance and patience.  We couldn't be happier with the newest addition to our family.

With very best wishes,

Barbara Gold

Hello!

I just wanted to congratulate you both on running such a wonderful facility. Quimby, my Moluccan, that I got from you is the most wonderful little blessing!  He is more than I could have ever hoped he would be.  He, (don't know if it's a he or she yet,) is the sweetest little thing ever:  such an active, playful, musical, wonderful bird; and actually, one of the most beautiful and biggest Moluccans I've ever seen!  And he's still a baby!

He is also the most intelligent little thing--he isn't even a year old, and he can open his cage door (he's an amazing puzzle solver), say a few phrases, shake hands, and play dead!  My favorite thing he does is he lays in my arms, feet up, and watches TV with me.  My His "cockatoo dance" is so funny.  This is a bird with a lot of personality.  (We tell him he's got "zazz"...it gets him excited, and he imitates my laugh).

I just wanted to tell you this because I feel that I have been sold what is one of the best birds I've ever come in contact with.  I've seen other Moluccans on TV and in pet shops, and they don't compare to Quimby; whether it's in beauty, size, smarts, or temperament.  He's beautiful, amazingly smart, gentle, and such a joy to live with.  Thank you for raising such amazing birds!

Suzanne

P.S.  Included are some pictures of Quimby; one is particularly funny--it's his "hungry face"--so cute!

Just wanted to let you both know that Mandy is doing well and adjusting to her new home.  As Joe said, she is a sweetheart.   She adjusted to her new home quickly and is very excited to see and greet people.   She is developing a real strong attachment to my daughter, Ariana, and I (since we spend the most time with her).  Even when she "bites" (which is rare), she does so in a manner to let us know not to do something, and she has a very mild bite (in fact, it is painless, and no blood has been drawn, which is a good thing).

I am sure that she is adjusting well due to the love and attention you both provided her when she was in your home.  She is saying hello, and I am amazed at how we are able to handle her (rubbing her head is now common).

Anthony

John and my daughter, Jillian, drove up to New Jersey from Virginia to get Tooey.  The trip was long but well worth it.   Tooey is a remarkable bird.  Even though he is still a baby, he is so smart.   He lets you know when he wants to play and when he wants to be by himself..   He has a loving personality and is wonderful with the kids.  He thinks he's a big teddy bear.  He loves to be next to you as close as he can get when you're holding him.  I am certain that he is the way he is because of the tremendous care and love that he received when he was with Joe & Mary.

Thank you, Joe & Mary, for allowing us to raise one of your amazing birds.  You both have been so patient and understanding with our questions and nagging e-mails.  Thank you for the weekly pictures of Tooey as he grew into this wonderful bird.  You were so accommodating when John came to pick up Tooey.  He has made a smooth transition to our home.  We are so blessed to have him.  Thanks again for everything.

John, Jacqueline, Jack, and Jillian Jett

Joe & Mary's Parrot Place came to my attention after an exhaustive online search and comparison of particulars such as website, distance from my home, reputation, and ease of interaction with African Grey breeders, and I can only say that in my experience, Joe & Mary have proven themselves truly devoted to the high art and passion for avian breeding standards.

My new pet bird, a "baby" at fourteen weeks, arrived after a short one and a half hour flight and was well caged and seemed quiet and shy at first, but not for long!  My new buddy seemed well at ease in general with his new house, other people, dogs, visitors, etc.  He was eating on his own and had a great appetite for various fresh fruits and vegetables and nuts.  He is independent and relaxed.  By the third day, he had learned to step up to a perch and or a finger or hand.  He hangs out to watch TV and just chills and grooms and loves to hear all the sounds coming from the tube.  Today on the way to a vet, he basically rode on my shoulder as he hates the box.  I kept thinking well, it's safer in the box, but he was soooo happy and mellow sitting on my shoulder doing what John Lennon used to do:  Watchin; the Wheels go 'Round and 'Round.

It is definitely a very special and important relationship and decision to share your life with a creature that will live for a very long time and to know that each and every one of them is an entire universe of unique properties and personalities, as are we all.  But with proper care and love and patience, they prove to be the most remarkable of companions.

I want to thank Joe & Mary for fine, healthy, beautiful, and well-socialized bird.  He is a welcome and beloved addition to the family.  And by extension of your own, as it is obvious you don't just "dump" a bird on someone and say, "Next!" - Your commitment to the ongoing support, understanding, and knowledge of responsible avian ownership has been a wonderful experience.

Thank you Joe & Mary!

My name is Nicole (my family just brought home our new Sun Conure from you a few weeks ago).  I just wanted to let you know that our baby Sun Conure, Mango, is doing amazing!  He is getting bigger everyday and is filling in with feathers.  He can say hello but it is kinda fuzzy.  Mango loves his new home.  He loves homemade parrot treats that I make for him weekly.   Mango is more than a pet, he is part of the family.  He eats breakfast and dinner with us and works with my father during the day.  We bought him a little birdie bed that is warm and fuzzy, and he loves it!  It's really funny that almost every night, unless we have guests over, he wants to go into his bed and sleep.  He relates to a newborn baby so much.  The first time he took a bath was last week.   Water splattered everywhere, and when he was done, he looked like a little monster!   It was a lot of fun!  We have had a LOT of company over to see our new baby!   They all say the same thing:  "Wow, he is gorgeous!"  We just tell them that we had an amazing breeder.  I just want to thank you both so much in helping my family and I find the perfect bird!

Sincerely,
Nicole and Mango

Just wanted to send you a little note to let you know how well C.J. is doing.  It's been a little over a month now, and she is adjusting well.  She is such a character!

We wanted to say thank you for everything.   We are very grateful for all the help and information you provided us.  We are obviously very pleased with our baby and feel that we have made an excellent choice in our breeder.  We would highly recommend you to any of our friends as well as anyone looking to purchase a bird.  It is so nice to do business on a more personal level with caring people like yourselves as opposed to a big chain store.  We appreciated your patience with our questions and also educating our children on proper handling of the bird.  We have attached a few pictures so you can see how beautiful she is!   Thanks again for everything!

Rich, Deb, and family

Dear Joe & Mary,

I feel so lucky to have found you both.  After months of searching for the right breeder, I knew the moment I first spoke to Joe on the phone that you two were a perfect match for us.  Our Black-Headed Caique, Tupelo, is a wonderful bird and friend to our entire family.

Because I have a 4-year old daughter, I made it clear to you both that we wanted the most gentle bird from the clutch.  You gave us just that.  Tupelo and my daughter, Karis, are the best of friends.  He takes baths with her, plays Thomas trains with her, and she is clearly his favorite person in the house.  Tupelo loves to cuddle with us and lie on his back and get his belly rubbed.  I never thought a bird could be so affectionate.  He has such a wonderful personality, and I can only attribute that to the fantastic care he received while in your home.

Tupelo had no problems transitioning to life in our "wild" home.  With 2 large dogs, a rambunctious child, and friends and family coming and going all the time, he has adjusted and fit in perfectly.  He is happy to meet new people and is especially gentle when meeting a young child.  He is just a joy and keeps us in stitches with his hilarious personality.  It is true, Caiques are the clowns of the bird world, and Tupelo is a perfect example of that.

I would be honored to recommend your services to any potential clients.  Please do not hesitate to have anyone contact me.  I can't thank you both enough for giving us such a wonderful, beautiful, and healthy animal.

Best,
Daphne P.

Hi Joe & Mary,

It's been over a month now since I brought Ryan home, and I want you both to know that I am so in love!  He is an absolute sweetheart and has become such a great little buddy.  I've been asking him lately, "Where have you been all my life?"

He is doing great.  I've got him singing and dancing to Paul McCartney's greatest hits.  He goes nuts for Paul!  We've had overnight visits, plenty of guests over to meet him, and he has enjoyed every minute of it.  Ryan is friendly with everyone he meets.  He is so easy going and loves to hang out on the back of the couch and watch TV.  Other than his tree, the couch is his favorite place to be.

He's also starting to pick up a few words.  It seems he's still trying to find his voice, but he has no problem saying "Good Boy!"  He also started saying/asking, "What?"  He will walk right up to me, look me straight in the face and asks, "What?"  It cracks me up to no end.  Did I mention Ryan has such a great sense of humor too?

Thank you both for introducing me to my adorable, little love.  Ryan is truly amazing, and I am so lucky to have him.

When I'm ready to add on, and I will be adding on, I will not be going anywhere else.  Both of you were so helpful, friendly, and such a pleasure.  On top of that, your babies are incredible!

Cheers to you both!

Wendy

Harlequin Macaw
Scott & Karen K. in Michigan wrote:

Dear Joe & Mary,

Although our business transaction is still not complete as of yet, there are a few things that I would like to address.

I have to admit that I am not very computer savvy and the whole internet idea kinda scares me.  The thought of sending all of my personal information to another computer in an unknown location is kind of frightening.

When Karen and I first talked about buying a Macaw, I figured that we'd just trot on over to our local pet store and pick one out and run home with it.  I never thought we'd be dealing with complete strangers from another state.  It raises so many questions and fears.  Who are these people?   Do they really breed birds or am I dealing with Larry the town drunk who is running some sort of phony bird for sale scam from his moms basement?  What if there really isn't any bird and I pay $2,000 for a package of sea monkeys?  You know, commonly asked questions like that.

We spent countless hours on line looking for just the right type of bird.  Then we spent even more time trying to find the right breeder.

We called and talked to probably about 20 to 30 breeders and, pardon my language, they all really sucked.  They all seemed so cold and unpersonable.  Most of them were only interested in the business side of it all.   They might as well have been "selling" pet rocks.

When we finally ran across Joe & Marys Parrot Place, we thought it would be just another dead end attempt at finding someone we were comfortable with.  WE'RE STILL IN SHOCK.

This whole experience has been a real eye opener.  Mary and Joe have made every moment of this "adoption" a real joy.   You have both been incredibly helpful and cooperative and your willingness to work with us on certain issues is very uncommon in this day in age.  I don't think that I can properly relay to you how easy you have made this for us and what a pleasure it has been so far.

As your journey with our baby comes to an end it would appear that our fun is just about to begin.  I'm still not exactly sure what we've gone and gotten ourselves into now but I know that as long as we have the two of you for support and guidance we will be just fine.

Although we have never physically met, the two of you seem more as friends to us than someone we are simply doing business with.   You never made it seem like we were buying a new car or something.  You both have always been more concerned with Kimieko’s well being and in making sure that we had answers to all of our questions than anything else.

This is why I say with you guys it feels more like an adoption than a sale.

I'm sure that as Kimieko grows and as we learn more about each other that we will be calling or sending e-mails with our questions and concerns.  Of course we will keep you updated on how she is doing and obviously we're going to need food and toys.

I called the airline and found out where and when we are supposed to pick up our little bundle of joy.  I will probably go tomorrow and set up camp in their parking lot.  I don't want to be late.

Anyway thank you both again for EVERYTHING.   God bless you for being such wonderful people and for taking care of raising our baby girl so far.

If you guys are ever in the Detroit metro area, please stop by to say Hi and see how Kimieko is doing.  It would be an honor to actually meet you both in person.

Thanks again and we will talk to you soon.

Scott & Karen K. and family

Blue & Gold Macaw & Double Yellow-Headed Amazon
Cynnie & John A. in New York wrote:

Dear Joe & Mary:

I have put off writing this letter to you for long enough.  It has taken me so long because there is so much that I want to say about both of you.

We bought Rio from you almost a year ago now.   He was 7 months old and a magnificent baby.  His personality was outgoing and gregarious and he remains that way.  Rio is such a vocal bird, he must want to say so much, and he practices every moment that he can.  Then we bought Sunrise, our beautiful Double Yellow-Headed Amazon.  It was fun to watch her grow as you e-mailed pictures and when we visited with her.  She is a beauty and is talking right along with Rio.  She is a love, and both Rio and Sunrise have brought so much happiness to our family.  As you know, we also have a pair of Lovebirds and a Cockatiel.  I truly love birds and the companionship that they bring to enrich everyone's lives.

From the time that we first contacted you about Rio, until the present, you have been so warm and outgoing.  We have never once felt that we were bothering you with our sometimes "silly" questions.  When we have wanted to stop by to pick up supplies, you have always been there.  You both have been such a wealth of information, and so knowledgeable about birds.  We were so pleased the first time we visited your "babies."  You maintain the babies in such a warm and nurturing environment, and an environment that is impeccably clean.   The questions we asked were so important and you answered every single one of them without hesitation.  This proved to me that you truly cared about your birds and wanted only the best homes for them.  We never once felt pressured to purchase anything, and that is so important to us.

I have called you while you were away on vacation, at strange hours, and with an emergency.  You never made us feel that we were intruding, and always talked with us until we were satisfied that we had all the information we needed.   During our emergency, your sense of calm made us calm down.  I felt so much better after that phone call, you have no idea.  The fact that you take the time to care about each and every one of your customers is such an asset to you (as people and then as business people).  You both are living proof that kindness and compassion still exist, and still exist while doing business with someone.

We have been working with you in obtaining our "Tequila" a little boy DYHA.  Last season you kept us up to date on an almost weekly basis, letting us know what babies had been sexed, and what the outcome was.   We had no luck with finding "Tequila" but your willingness to continue to ask your aviaries to sex the babies is unbelievable.  This once again shows to us that you are certainly the only people we will turn to when looking for another bird to add to our troop (hmmm, does Greenwing Macaw sound familiar? LOL).  I'm sure we will ask for advice on building our "Bird Room" when the time comes.

We would like to thank you both very much for all the support and help that you have given us.  I hope that this New Year brings you both much happiness, and a little bit of a selfish note, I hope it brings our baby "Tequila" to your home.

Thank you.

Cynnie and John

Congo African Grey
Donnie G. in Florida wrote:

In September 2001, I was injured in the line of duty as a Deputy Sheriff.  For two years, I was stuck in the house recuperating from the three surgeries to repair my shoulder, with no luck.  I was seriously bummed out and was looking for a pet to keep me company.  Something that wouldn't require a lot of strength or high maintenance to keep up with.  I decided on a parrot.

After deciding on an African Grey, I started looking around at the pet stores and couldn't believe the high prices of the birds.   Plus, they didn't seem to have any personality.  I then stumbled on an ad in "Bird Talk Magazine" and decided to call.  The gentleman that answered was very nice and offered me a tour of his aviary.  So I decided to take him up on his offer, and that's how I met Joe.

While there, I was impressed with the birds he was raising and his own personal birds.  While showing me his African Grey chicks, I fell in love with the runt of the group.  Joe could tell that I was attached to the chick, and I was a goner.  When Joe told me how much he was, I couldn't believe the difference in price.  Plus, I knew that my bird was getting quality attention.

Joe allowed me to visit Chakotay every week so he could get to know me, and when it was time to go home, he wouldn't be scared.

I picked up Chakotay in June 2003, and we haven't been separated since.  Chakotay isn't my pet, he is my friend. We go everywhere together.  He even goes for walks with me.  I can honestly say that my buddy keeps me smiling and laughing almost all the time.

Joe & Mary have always been there for me.   From the panicked phone calls because I thought something was wrong, to being just good people.  If you are looking for a bird, then Joe & Mary are the people you should be talking to.  They can pair you up with the perfect bird for your desires.   They really care about the birds they raise. I have to say that Joe & Mary bent over backwards for me and there is no pet store that can ever come close to the personalized service that they provide.  And, for those skeptics out there that think this letter isn't true, you can e-mail me direct (donnieguffey@yahoo.com).   I have dozens and dozens of pictures of Chakotay, and I'm proud of him, and I honestly don't know what I would do without him.

Thanks Joe & Mary, you have no idea how much pleasure my little baby gives me.

Donnie G.

Ducorps Cockatoo
Vicki A. in Illinois wrote:

Dear Mary & Joe,

Double Yellow-Headed Amazon
Mike & Penny R. in New Jersey wrote:

Everything is going great with us and Loki she is making great progress, talking and trying to get new words out all the time.

I have to be honest, Loki is doing better than we could ever imagine, and friendly; she pretty much will go to whoever asks for her to "step up," and she pretty much thinks she's just one of the other animals now.  Our two dogs and our cat had to figure out what she was but now they just seem to be like "whatever."  Loki climbs on them and preens them a little, tries to talk to them, and will follow them around the house.

If we leave the room for more then a minute, she climbs down from her cage and comes and looks for us or she will wait outside the bathroom door on the little corner table we have and wait for us to come out and then follows us back in the living room.

We have to say that we are truly impressed with how well Loki has adapted to her new home and way of life.  All of us, after talking to our coworkers and other people who have had or still own parrots, agree we could not get a better parrot from any other breeder, let alone from a pet store.

Thanks again,
Mike & Penny R.

Yellow-Naped Amazon
Jerry & Patty G. in New Jersey wrote:

Dear Mary & Joe,

I just wanted to write and tell you how happy I am with the Yellow-Naped Amazon we purchased from you.  The two of you made the whole experience so much fun.  My whole family loved being able to come and see him until he was fully weaned.  You taught us so much, and we always felt so welcome at your home.

This bird is so great!  Even though he is only a few months old, he is already saying so many things!  He is a constant source of joy for all of us.

I really appreciate your calling and checking up on how we are doing and seeing if we have any questions.  I also appreciate that you never mind when we call you.

You have very loyal customers in my husband and myself.  You were not the only place that we checked when we were ready to buy a bird, but we knew when we found you, that we would not buy from anyone else but the two of you.  I would recommend you highly to anyone interested in getting a happy, healthy bird.

Thanks again,
Patti G.

Umbrella Cockatoo
Michelle B. in New Jersey wrote:

Dear Joe & Mary,

Thank you so much for such an amazing little baby.  You did a great job in making Angel the sweet, cuddly, adorable, loving, and smart bird that she is.  I am so lucky to have such a perfect little feathered friend.  I know that she's the right bird for me.

Angel is doing very well.  She is very active and happy.  She's eating a lot and playing with all of her toys.  For lunch today, she had some carrots and broccoli on her tree. Then she ate dinner with the family.   She ate some chicken, green beans, and corn.

She's already a great member in the family.   Thank you for all you have done.  I'm so happy with my new baby.

Your birdie friend,
Michelle

Umbrella Cockatoo
Jim & Mary K. in New Jersey wrote:

Dear Joe & Mary,

We would like to take this time to thank you for the beautiful Umbrella Cockatoo that we purchased from you in August.  He is such a wonderful bird. We have been looking for a Cockatoo for some time, and the birds we have seen in the major pet shops did not look as though they were healthy.  So my wife decided to call the ad she saw in the newspaper, and we came up to see you.

We were amazed at all the beautiful, healthy birds you had and your very reasonable prices.  It was hard for my wife, Mary, to decide which bird she wanted.  The two of you made us feel so comfortable and took the time to allow us to see all the birds we wanted to.  It made choosing one so much easier.

After choosing our Cockatoo, we were happy to see that you were able to supply us with a cage, food, and toys, again at reasonable prices.   We were also very pleased that you welcomed us back to your home to visit our bird and to let him get to know us before we took him to his new home and his new family, which includes 3 Mini Pins, an African Grey, and a Green Pacific Parrotlet.  The Cockatoo fit right in, and they all get along fine.

My wife and I were happy to see that you cared enough about the birds you sell to make follow-up calls to see how they were doing and that they were alright, and to answer all the questions that we had.  Not only have we bought a beautiful, healthy bird, we have also met two wonderful people that we now call friends.

Thanks again,
Jim & Mary K.

Umbrella Cockatoo
Terry M. in Colorado wrote:

Dear Joe & Mary,

Thank you so much for taking such good care of us.   When you called, we had been home approximately 20 minutes from getting our new baby, whom we've now decided to call Sammy. We arrived at the airport about 30 minutes before the scheduled landing of her flight, and about 15-20 minutes after that, she was delivered to us.  At the time, the weather was great, but is forecasted to deteriorate later this afternoon. Timing was perfect.  Once home, Sammy was a bit tentative for the first few minutes, but soon decided the best place to take in her new environment was from my lap while I sat in an easy chair.  She seemed totally settled and content, and I'm sure was saving up some energy for playing later in the day.

We'll take it easy with her for the first two weeks, but I'm totally confident she'll fit right into our home.  I did find her hatch date of June 5, 2003.  We'll have another birthday party each year to celebrate.

By way of comment for anyone else who might consider dealing with you to acquire a new pet.  I can only say your "value added" service is the best.  I never could have imagined so much care and concern from a distant breeder. You have always been in close and frequent contact, and will remain so for years to come.  It's a heck of a way to make new friends, but it's true.   The shipment was also quite special.  I was very impressed when the first ship date was cancelled because of weather.  It can be a very difficult call from the shipper's end, but it confirms that you really care for your birds.  The actual shipment today went exactly as planned.  The shipping container was really nice, and Sammy was certainly no worse for the wear during her flight.  We couldn't be happier.   Thanks again.

Terry M.

Rose-Breasted Cockatoo
Anthony & Jackie S. in New York wrote:

Hi Joe and Mary,

I just wanted to write and tell you how Napoleon is doing. He is constantly with my family and I.  We keep him upstairs with us on his perch all day.  The only time that he is in his cage is at night or for usually a half hour each day if we have to go out.  He is eating not only the bird food that we got from you but also apples (cut up without the seeds), celery, carrots, spaghetti, and other fresh fruits and vegetables.  Everytime Jackie cooks something that he can eat, she sets a little of it aside for him. (Hey Joe, didn't she say she wasn't going to cook for him?  Guess who just became number one in the family?) Whenever it's nice outside, we put him in his cage in our backyard and he enjoys the sun with us.

Tonight Matt, Anthony, and I were the only ones home.  We were watching the Yankees when all of a sudden it sounded like Napoleon was trying to say some words.  It wasn't really clear but it sounded like a whole conversation.  We can't wait for him to actually start speaking.

Watching him hop around his perch and clowning around on his toys is a joy for us to watch.  It's only been about a week since he came home with us and it already seems like he's been with us for years.  The way he is around the house you would swear that Napoleon was born here.

We just wanted to tell you that you guys truly have made buying a bird more than just buying a bird.  You have made it a fun and educational experience for us.  After months and months of searching on the Internet for a place to buy our first bird, I can honestly say we have found the best place in you two guys.  It used to be where I would e-mail Joe and Mary's Parrot Place but now I just email Joe and Mary.  We consider you guys more than just two people that we bought a bird from; we consider you friends.  Honesty, trust, caring, and great sense of responsibility are only a few words that describe the two of you.

Once again, thank you for making this experience of buying a bird a great one and also for the opportunity of becoming good friends with the two of you and your family.

We'll talk to you soon.

Sincerely,
Anthony, Jackie, Matthew, Michael, Gabrielle, Anthony, and Napoleon

Solomon Island Male Eclectus
Chris & Fran E. in New Jersey wrote:

Hello, our names are Chris, Fran, Danielle, and Christopher.  We first became interested in the Eclectus Parrot when we saw one in a Pet Shop.  Our previous experience with a bird was with a female Cockatiel.   We were compelled to put her to sleep due to becoming eggbound.

While we wished to own another bird, we were concerned about the possibility of a repeat experience with another female bird.  We decided to get another bird, but exclusively a male.

After researching information about the Eclectus Parrot, we learned that the male and female Eclectus are distinctly different in appearance.  We decided to attempt to get a male Eclectus Parrot.  In our search, we wanted to find a bird breeder who specialized in hand-raised birds who emphasizes quality over quantity.  After reading up on breeders in the New Jersey area, we came to know Joe & Mary of Joe & Mary's Parrot Place.  After speaking with them on several occasions, we decided to purchase a baby male Eclectus from them.

Despite a lengthy wait, we were finally able to get a baby bird.  We were able to bring him home just a few days after Christmas.   What a great Christmas present!  He is incredibly beautiful.  We named him Zazu, after the bird character in the Disney film "Lion King."

Joe and Mary were extremely helpful in getting us squared away in settling in with our new baby.  Getting a medium-sized exotic parrot for the first time is quite an experience.  There is a lot to learn.  In the weeks that followed after we got our bird, Joe & Mary called us several times to help us to adjust to our new family member.

Now after 6 months, we are doing fantastic with Zazu.  He is very affectionate and is beginning to mimic sounds. We can't wait to here him start to talk.

Many thanks to Joe & Mary for everything that you did to help make our home much more special with Zazu.

Anyone wishing to learn more about our experience can email us at: vermontchris@juno.com.

Congo African Grey
Kerry M. in New Jersey wrote:

Hi Joe & Mary,

Just wanted to drop you a note to tell you that Kito is doing very well.  He will be a year old this month, and I cannot believe how fast it went.

Already my little friend is saying words and adds to the vocabulary everyday.  His favorite thing to do though is torment the dogs, calling them by name to the cage and then lunging at them as though to attack.  After doing this, he sits back and laughs as the dogs run away.

I cannot tell you how happy I am that we hooked up and I was able to get such a great friend from you two.  Thanks is too small a word for such a wonderful bird.

Kerry & Kito

Umbrella Cockatoo
Jose & Melissa M. in New Jersey wrote:

For 2 years I was making my decision about which bird to get and for about the same amount of time I've heard people say so many wonderful things about Joe & Mary's Parrot Place.  Not knowing how to contact them, my wife and I just waited until the next Pet Expo where Joe & Mary were supposed to be.

Our meeting with Joe & Mary was not what we expected.  They treated us as if we were old friends, spending over an hour discussing our decision for a Cockatoo.  I was a bit uncomfortable feeling that I was taking too much of their business time but they assured me they had all the time in the world.  That was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.  We never felt pressured for time or money.  The entire transaction never felt like business.

They would take time once a week for my family to visit Blanca, our Umbrella Cockatoo, at Joe & Mary's home. While we were there, Joe & Mary showed us how to handle, discipline, and have fun with Blanca.

After 2-1/2 months, Blanca is the most loving, sweet, and curious bird.  She started to speak only days after we got her home and now sings portions of "Singing in the Rain" while in the shower.  She loves the attention and being that she was raised in a home environment, she doesn't mind my children, not scared of my neighbor's dog, and she is very social.  Rarely do I have to yell at someone for getting too close to the "guard" parrot.  She's just a bundle of feathers that greets you so she can get scratched.

My only advice for anyone considering an addition to their family is to research the types of parrots and their behaviors.  Once your mind is made up on what type of parrot, your decision on places to go is Joe & Mary's Parrot Place.  Great people, great parrots...great prices also come into effect here.   You find yourself spending more than you would like to, just because you're saving so much.

Thank you, Joe & Mary, for our bundle of joy.  We are so lucky that you showed up at the Pet Expo.

Congo African Grey & Black-Headed Caique
Billy & Dana D. in New Jersey wrote:

You plan for years to get the perfect African Grey.  You read every book you can get your hands on, talk to other Grey owners...and plan.  You expect a few bumps in the road, the typical Grey quirks...you're ready.

The last experience with Joe & Mary are enough for my wife and I to take the next step, time to commit to life run by a Grey.

Again, after only knowing Joe & Mary for a short time, they make every effort to review all we know about Greys and add their real-life experiences.  I have seen and heard Joe & Mary's Grey and was amazed!

For the second time, we are invited over to their home to visit with the Greys they have available.  My wife and I arrive with our children to see which Grey chooses us.  It takes very little time, as my young son is holding this unfamiliar Grey, with no fear at all.

The same as the last time, I wonder how they do it!   We bring Mason home and place him in his new home and we finally got Joe!

All the reading and studying, what's the first thing you read? "Greys don't like change."....They need to be introduced to new toys, etc.  Well, I'm hear to tell you the fault with Joe & Mary's birds...They don't read the books!!!!  This baby could care less about his new cage.  Loves new toys, no matter what.

This young Grey has very little fear.  I do not know what they do to socialize the babies, but it works.  Another Home Run for Joe & Mary.  I cannot believe the quality of a bird not raised in a pet shop.   We are waiting to see if they can out-do themselves with our baby Black-Headed Caique!!

Thanks again Joe & Mary!!

Lilac-Crowned Amazon
Jeff & Pat L. in Pennsylvania wrote:

Hi guys,

Just had to write you and thank you again for Piper.   He is such a great bird.  I got home last night after the show and there he was hanging onto the front of his cage, wings fluttering.  I went over and took him out, and out of nowhere he gives a wolf whistle followed by a few choruses of "pretty, pretty, pretty bird" followed by "hello" and then by this outrageous laugh which could only be Joe...Pat and I were laughing hysterically.  I placed a table perch on my desk in my home office for him/her to sit on while I am working, and he is just content to sit there watching me work.  If I walk away, he gets very upset though and starts to call out to me.  We will have to work on his self confidence.

Again, thanks for everything, and we look forward to seeing you at the next event.

White-Bellied Caique
Billy & Dana D. in New Jersey wrote:

My family first met Joe and Mary at the Pet Expo in NJ.  We had went to our first show hoping to see some new bird products, but the show was thin.

We spotted Joe and Mary's booth and shot right over.   Although they were very busy, Joe made a point of acknowledging we had entered and that he would be right with us.  We saw the White Bellied Caique and could not believe our luck.  Joe let us hold the little fellow, after cleaning our hands...the sign of a true professional who cares about his birds, and we talked about how he and Mary hand-fed and hand-raised all of their birds.

Joe and Mary were busy, so we left to see what the rest of the Expo had to offer, the whole time talking about the Caique.  Needless to say, our minds were not on the rest of the show...we ran straight back to Joe & Mary's Parrot Place to see about taking the Caique home.  Even though Joe and Mary were so busy (you'd think they were giving free samples), they spent at least an hour answering all our questions, including those about our other bird, one they had nothing to do with.

After what I consider the most painless transaction I have ever had, and the best deal I have ever been involved in, we parted ways...after Joe had "the talk" with the Caique.

My family and I drove home very excited, and thinking that we had been very lucky and that would be the end of it. We let Baxter settle in his new flock and began the process of acclimating him to his new environment.

Joe had said he would call us in a few days to see how everything was getting along.  I did not think anything of that, and to be honest, did not expect the call.  I was more than happy when the phone did ring, and it was Joe and Mary!!!  Joe spent a good thirty minutes seeing how things were going, answering questions on ALL my birds, and being just plain nice.  What a great experience!

We received a package in the mail shortly after our purchase with the best health warranty I have ever seen, and a great package of information to help Baxter make the transition.  Joe and Mary go way beyond what would be "normal" in the pet/retail business, and they do not pass these costs onto the consumer.  In fact, the entire purchase of Baxter, a very high quality cage, bags of food and toys, was much less than the purchase of the Caique alone at a local shop with only a 30-day health warranty.  This practice has prompted me to purchase a second Black-Headed Caique baby from Joe and Mary!  We can hardly wait until the end of May to bring him home.  I am sure he will make a wonderful addition to my "flock."

Thank you, Joe and Mary, for showing me that people still do care and take pride in what they do!!

Billy & Dana D.

Umbrella Cockatoo
Esther P. in Michigan wrote this letter to Sally Blanchard, world-renowned avian behavioral consultant and Founder/Editor of the Companion Parrot Quarterly:

Dear Sally,

I just want to thank you for all the care you take in screening your advertisers before you allow them to advertise in the CPQ.  I am having the most wonderful experience in the process of getting a parrot.

As you know, I had gotten a Citron from Katy McElroy that died right when he was supposed to come home after having turned out to be blind in one eye (incidentally, the necropsy revealed that the eye was blind from an injury either while he was hatching or while he was in the nest, not a congenital defect and displayed absolutely nothing else wrong with the bird).  Well, I wound up with an Umbie (no, this is not impulse: I had been looking at Eleanoras and Umbies for awhile, but at the pet shop where I got my other birds, I couldn't afford their Umbies, and no one had an Eleanora this year).

The bird is scheduled to come home on October 31 at the age of 5-1/2 months, and I'm getting him/her (we'll know which next week) from Joe and Mary Mascia of Joe and Mary's Parrot Place, the nicest people I could ever hope to do business with (Not that Katy McElroy isn't also; Nancy Speed, too), and every breeder I spoke to in my quest for a Citron is pitching right in with info and advice and interest in being kept informed about this bird.  They are all advertisers in the CPQ.

Since I can't be flying back and forth between Ann Arbor, Michigan and Middlesex, New Jersey to visit with the bird so we can start bonding, Joe has arranged to call me on the phone at his own expense or accept calls from me, depending which is more practical for him on a given day, so I can talk to the bird on the phone.  It's working! Evidently, s/he likes the sound of my voice as well as whatever s/he understands of what I say because Joe says s/he seems very pleased and happy and wants to come to my house.

I can't believe the things Joe does.  For one thing, when we get on the phone, you would think he has nothing to do but talk to me all day.  For another, in the process of socializing his babies, he really does everything, even including teaching them to accept being toweled without fussing or being frightened.  And he's very flexible.

He told me, for example, that when he gets the birds vet checked before they go home, he doesn't have the vet do any bloodwork or anything; so I talked to him about it.  When he told me he was trying to keep the cost of his birds down, I pointed out to him that the new owner was going to have to meet those expenses anyway because any avian vet in his right mind is going to want to do them.   And then I told him that I think he should be doing it with all his birds for his own protection and reminded him about what had happened to Katy after a little more than 30 years of breeding experience without ever having a problem.  He was extremely receptive to what I had to say and has agreed to get a fecal exam and a CBC and split the cost of those tests with me.  He also said he's willing to consider raising the prices on his birds a little and doing the same with all of his birds from now on.

He tells me I will be receiving an information packet and approximately a two week supply of the foods he's been feeding the bird sometime next week and that his information packet even includes a little booklet his wife put together about nurturing guidance.  When I wanted to know what to think about bringing a male Umbie into my home where I already have a most horny female Moluccan, he consulted with a breeder who has 35 years of experience with Cockatoos and told me what to do so that they won't start breeding further on down the line. Another one of your advertisers willingly and with no expectation of anything in return told me what to do about the male overload aggression problem should I run into it as she did one day with her bird so I don't get badly injured from a bite.  And Katy has promised to send me a copy of her information packet that she gives everyone who buys one of her birds and won't even let me pay her for it.

I mean it, Sally, you just can't do better than turn to your advertisers, and I am so grateful for this wonderful experience and the new friends I'm making in the process that I think a simple thank you is highly inadequate.

Esther P.

P.S.  By the way, I don't know whether you remember my writing in to the CPQ List about Mollie giving me a few extremely painful nips for apparently no reason when she came into breeding condition for the first time last winter, but there was a reason all right; and it had nothing to do with her hormones.   It seems I walked up to her with my reading glasses on because I just plain forgot to take them off, something I had never done before, and the glasses scared her.  As soon as I took the glasses off, she calmed right down, and now I have my sweet, docile sweetheart back.

Blue-Throated Macaw
Lucy S. in New Jersey wrote:

I'd just like to start off by saying, it takes a special kind of person to welcome you into their home, to share their life with you and to entrust you with a baby they raise.  I consider myself honored to find not one, but two of these people in Joe & Mary. Their dedication to what they do, their integrity in business dealings, and their compassionate and caring nature sets them far above most people you will ever do business with.  I not only feel that I have found an invaluable resource for information and support, I feel I have found new friends.   And this was how the friendship began.

I swear I was only there to pick up food for Boo Boo, my little Bare-Eyed Cockatoo.  It was October, my first trip to Joe and Mary's, and I needed to stock up on food and some new toys, and as I walked around the room, there he was...he stole my heart.  The sweet face, the big dark eyes, and the beautiful teal and orange coloring of a Blue-Throated Macaw.  Joe told us about all of the people that saw him on the website and were calling for him, but nonetheless, he still hadn't found a good home.  There was absolutely no pressure from Joe to buy a bird, but I kept going back over to him...I couldn't resist that little face. Then Joe took him out and it was all over...he handed me "Dribbles" as he came to be called, and I melted...however, I still insisted I was only there for food.

I knew I couldn't bring home another bird.  I was only there to pick up food, or at least that's what I kept telling myself.  On the ride home, all I could picture were his big eyes, and all I thought about was how calm and gentle he was.  I called Joe the next day. Dribbles had to come home with me.

I went to visit him a few times, and grew really attached to him.  Joe spent lots of time telling me what he was doing and learning and giving me advice on how to nurture and care for him.  He called me every Wednesday just to touch base and keep me up to date.  Then I got the phone call no one wants...Dribbles was sick.  Joe was noticeably upset as he told me my baby had to be quarantined.  He assured me they would do everything they could to find out what happened and to make him better...and he and Mary did.  They immediately took the bird to the vet, got him tested, and on medications, and with lots of TLC, got him back up on his feet.  Although he checked out healthy after a week, he didn't gain weight the way he was supposed to.  That beautiful little bird was turning out to be a challenge.  Again Joe showed his concern, but he wouldn't be beaten...he tried oatmeal, granola bars and treats and anything else he could think of.  I know he and Mary gave Dribbles extra attention every step of the way.  Had anyone heard Joe and I talking, they would have thought we were talking about a baby, not a bird.  It was obvious to me that Dribbles held as special a place in Joe's heart as he did in my own.   Unfortunately, Dribbles was much sicker than anyone could have known.  It turned out that in addition to everything else, he had a heart problem.  Dribbles died on New Year's Eve.

When Joe called that afternoon, my heart sank...I could hear it in his voice before he even told me.  As hard as it was for me to hear, it had to be that much harder for him to say.  The way Joe & Mary handled the situation, keeping me informed every step of the way, and the honest concern and compassion they show for their birds is what speaks for itself.  This IS NOT just a business to them.  Their main concern is for the well being of the birds they provide for their customers.

Despite what happened, this story does have a very happy ending, because where one story ends, another begins...

I heard from Joe early in January and he told me we had some prospects.  There were some baby Blue-Throats in the nursery...if I still wanted to go that route.  Of course I did...that's what I fell in love with.   After all, it's not like I had set out bird shopping when I fell in love with Dribbles.  Joe assured me that he would do his best to find another baby with a similar temperament.

Joe called me faithfully every week to talk about our prospects, to him it was part of the job, but to me it was an outstanding display of customer service and yet another example of his commitment.  Finally, the weather broke and he was able to bring the new baby up from the Aviary.  And then, in the beginning of February, I got the call I was waiting for...My baby bird was here and in just a few short days he'd be ready to meet me!!!

My first trip to see him was interesting...we just stood there looking at each other through the cage...Joe joked about not knowing who was more afraid, me or the baby!

He was so much bigger than the first one and much more aggressive, or so it seemed at the time.  Joe took him out and put him on the counter to allow us to get familiar with each other.  When "Zazu" stepped up on my hand, I fell in love all over again.

Now that he's been home for a short time, I swear Joe & Mary sold me a bird that's part dog.  I take him out of the cage and bring him to the couch with me and he rolls over on his back so that I can rub his belly.   He holds my finger in his foot and licks me, and he growls!

Some would argue that dogs are man's best friend...I beg to differ.

Sincerely,
Lucy S.