Beverly - 2010-01-18 I bought a pair of Derbyans in 1992, who have had many babies. I have never tried to "tame" the pair, but they have become very calm with me over the years. I kept some of their babies and they all are wonderfully tame. They have the most beautiful voices you will ever hear! They love to sing and laugh, play with each other, chase each other around - good exercise,and have fun. They like sitting on my shoulder or head. They are very calm and very gentle birds, but can startle easily. Most say/sing "beautiful Derbyan Parakeet birdie", and "Way up in the sky little birds fly", "pipe down", "it's okay, you're okay", "owie, owie" and many other words and phrases and each other's names. They are my very favorite species of parrot!
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Renee Devera - 2011-07-22 Beverly, I have an absolutely gorgeous male Derbyan. He is almost 6 years old. He has the most terrific vocabulary, very comparable to a Congo African Grey. Honestly, his vocabulary is better than many CAG's. He can be a real sweetheart, but he is actually kind of sneaky or unpredictable from day to day or hour to hour. I've been debating on what to do. He has actually lived as a cage mate with a male spectacled amazon. They are for sure "The Odd Couple". Recently, the Derbyan has become very aggressive with the little amazon, very similar to the way a pair of breeders will often become. I wonder what would happen if I separate them? I also wonder if I were to purchase a female, would he possibly bond to her and become a breeding pair? Thirdly, do you think he would calm down and be more predictable and handleable if he were separated from his buddy? Do you know where I might be able to acquire a female and what would be a good price? I live in the Midwest, if that help in answering the price question. Though Ricky has been one of my prized possessions, due to the fact that they are fairly rare (at least around here) and one of the most colorful and beautiful birds I've ever seen, especially for being as large as he is. There are lots of colorful small bird and of course many beautifully colored macaws, but he's kind of mid size at about 23 inches long. I hope you get this and you are able to email me at Renee_in_WI@yahoo.com or even call me at 815-980-8222. Sorry, I hope it isn't too many questions, but I don't know who else to turn to. If I were to sell him, what should I ask for a price and if I find a female, what should I expect to pay? Thank you in advance.
Fred nikolic - 2010-02-25 Beverly, or anyone else who has this type of bird how much do they cost or go for if I would like to buy one, I seem to not be able to find one... thanks for your help.. Fred
Sheryl coffman - 2011-02-14 Hi Beverly,
I am looking for a pair of Derbyans or babies do you currently have or expect any?
Lucy - 2011-02-28 Beverly,
I have been looking for a female Derbyan. Do you have one or do you know anyone? Lucy
chris - 2007-01-19 This is an update of my previous entry.
My derbyan that I handfed out is becoming a downright horrible pet. Having been handfed for almost 2 months and much handling it should be as sweet a hand fed baby could be.
Its behavior resembles what I refer to as "production babies;" babies that are simply fed and returned to their clutchmates where the only interaction with a human is being picked up, shot full of food and set back into their enclosures. This bird also bites whenever any move it made upon it. My other Derbyan does not do this. It also cowers in its cage whenever any movement is made in its direction. Veteran bird keepers may think this bird was never even handfed to begin with.
I feel this Derbyan is the most useless pet bird Ive had. Im most disappointed in that all the attention and socialization it has received in a home environment has resulted in this fearful, limitly handlable bird. The only thing this bird is good for is color (when it matures). Other than that, it may as well just be free flighted in an aviary. Then again it may possibly be just the personality of this particular bird.
My second derbyan (this one was weaned already and was handled minimally while living at the store) has been a much better behaved pet. However this one is cage territorial and bites when its to be taken out. When perched on my shoulder, it quietly sits and does not mess with my ears or glass's arm (the other Derbyan cannot be kept on my shoulder). It also doesnt try to fly away when I take it out unlike the other Derby. It readily enjoys human company however still does not appreciate being stroked. Despite the shortcomings this Derbyan has, it is a much more handlable and I enjoy it. How ironic that a bird with a fraction of the attention given to it has become a much better bird.
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Siobhan OLaoghaire Sannes - 2011-04-05 I have now seen you refer to that poor Derbyan as a "useless pet bird" a "downright horrible pet" and then say "then only thing this bird is good for is color". As your post is years old, you probably aren't around anymore but shame on you! Every animal deserves love, a word I have yet to see you use regarding any of your birds.
Charlie Roche - 2011-04-06 Not all birds are alike and some can be quirky. I bred many birds for many years. One, a military macaw I finally named Sergeant cus he reminded me of a drill Sergeant in the Army. I did everything I could think of and his sister was just a sweetheart. Sergeant was just very difficult and I decided to hold him back for breeding as no way he could be a pet. 7 or so years went by and I get a call and this fella wants a male breeder and I tell him about Sergeant. Sergeant has been in a flight with toys and a blue/gold macaw for the 7 years but definitely not handled. Fella says perfect and I ship Sergeant across the country. Sergent looks at the fella and says "I love you" and walks up to him and steps up on his hand. Go figure. Anyway, Sergeant got married and had babies ut I couldn't believe this fella could pick Sergeant up and he did. A good breeder will hold back stock at times cuz for some reason they just realize that this one particular bird is not pet quality. It doesn't mean your derbyan won't be a pet, or won't come around as obviously Sergeant did but maybe it needs a different approach, or start over or beats me after that.
Cobalt - 2011-12-17 I agree with these others. This is probably a comment that is years too late, but that's a horrible mentality for anyone who handles the birds. If that's really how you feel, then you probably should find the birds a new home and look for something else...
Maria Conceicao Tereza - 2012-01-14 tony yearsley 14-1-2012 I HAVE A DERBYAN CALLED FRED HE IS 2 YEARS OLD HE IS THE BEST BUDY THAT ANY ONE COULD AS FOR. THANK YOU FOR A GREAT SITE
Arwen - 2011-09-23 I have had Asia since the was a five week old little bald baby. She is now 8 and one of the most calm, loving and sociable birds that I have met. She doesn't talk (although she can) however I prefer my birds to be more bird-like than human like and does affection on her own terms only. She is strong and very willful but never nasty. She is my first Derbyan and I was nervous before I got her however I could never have imagined what wonderful birds they are.
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Charlie Roche - 2011-09-23 It is so wonderful to get a baby bird and grow with it. You know them and a familiar friend with all aspects of their personlity. Besides they always train their himan - we just have to learn.
lily - 2012-01-27 I want a Derbyan parrot and I wan wondering how much they cost plz tell me so I can get one thank you
Linda - 2011-10-16 We got our derbyan when he was 9mo old. He turned two in May and is really a delight. He is quite a talker, but we don't have much time to teach him tricks. When we are home from work, he thinks we should be in the same room or he really let's us know with his loud squawking. If he thinks we are mad at him and tell him NO, he tells us "I love papa,papa, dad n' dad and BARNEY!!! Works every time, lol.
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David Brough - 2011-10-17 How can you resist? Oh... and who is Barney?
Renee Devera - 2011-07-23 If anyone has any information about where I can find a female Derbyan at a decent price, please contact me to pass on any information you have. Thank you all for this great group of very informed Derbyan owners.
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Charlie Roche - 2011-07-23 Go to bird talk and look up breeders ads in the back and see what you can find. You can also try online - I don't know where you live - and look for breeders.
Wendy Scott - 2011-08-11 If you are still looking for a female derbyan contact Wendys Winged Companion in FL (different Wendy). You can find her on birdbreeders.com I am getting a male from her tomorrow. This will be the 2nd bird I've gotten from Wendy and even with having to ship, she is wonderful to deal with. There was one female in the clutch that she thought she'd sold, but I just checked after seeing your post and the female is still available. Good Luck.
WENDY CARLSON - 2011-08-11 Good Evening Renee,
As Wendy Scott relayed, I do have 1 female derbyan available. She is the oldest of the clutch, and the only female. Her mother talks up a storm and runs the roost! Please feel free to email me at wendyswingz@bellsouth.net. I'd love to help in any way I can.
Missi - 2011-09-25 Wendy S., last weekend I got a male from Wendy C. from the same clutch as yours :D Email me! It will be fun to watch my little guy's brother grow up, would you agree? :) missi.bellande@gmail.com
Therese Dunnigan 2005-10-24 - 2005-10-24 My Derbyan is called "Bombay". He is handsome and loving. I purchase him four years ago and I recommend this bird to the beginner, as well as the advance bird lover. He has a large vocabulary and can master tricks with ease. There are few articles written about the Derbyan Parakeet and I thank you for your information.
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amy payne - 2011-09-14 Did you have a daughter named billie michelle, kim, tanya?
chris - 2006-12-10 I have a mixed opinion about Derbyans. Speaking abilities in birds were never a high requirement of mine so I will omit that part of vocal capabilities. I have two Derbyans. Both came from the same bird store. One which I handfed out and the other I bought later on from the same store. Both have standoffish personalities and dislike being touched. They will however tolerate being perched on a hand and seem content to extend that much of their comfort with human contact. As a veteran bird keeper I find derbyans to be rather unresponsive and quite frankly a useless pet bird if compared to conures or lories (though that is subject to opinion and individual bird personalities). They would however make gregarious aviary birds and probably enjoy that sort of setting moreso than a home environment.
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Renee Devera - 2011-07-23 Chris, You don't sound at all as though you enjoy these birds. Do you still have them? I would be interested in purchasing a female from you, if you have one. If you don't, I would love some advice on where to get a female. Thank you, Renee
susan - 2010-06-20 Can Derbyan Parakeets live with cockatiels?
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Renee Devera - 2011-07-23 I would have to say it is possible. Before placing them all together make sure you take the time properly introduce them by putting their cages next to each other. Then the next step, which must be done under extreme supervision, would be allowing them playtime together. Stay close in case there is a problem that you tend to quickly. The third step I would suggest moving them all into an entirely different larger cage. The purpose of that is to make sure nobody feels intruded upon by moving the tiles into the Derbyan cage or vice versa. Many birds are territorial when it comes to the safe haven and comfort of their own cage. Hope I helped and good luck
The mature Derbyan Parakeet is a striking bird with beautiful shades of violet blue on the head and breast!
I bought a pair of Derbyans in 1992, who have had many babies. I have never tried to "tame" the pair, but they have become very calm with me over the years. I kept some of their babies and they all are wonderfully tame. They have the most beautiful voices you will ever hear! They love to sing and laugh, play with each other, chase each other around - good exercise,and have fun. They like sitting on my shoulder or head. They are very calm and very gentle birds, but can startle easily. Most say/sing "beautiful Derbyan Parakeet birdie", and "Way up in the sky little birds fly", "pipe down", "it's okay, you're okay", "owie, owie" and many other words and phrases and each other's names. They are my very favorite species of parrot!
Beverly,
I have an absolutely gorgeous male Derbyan. He is almost 6 years old. He has the most terrific vocabulary, very comparable to a Congo African Grey. Honestly, his vocabulary is better than many CAG's. He can be a real sweetheart, but he is actually kind of sneaky or unpredictable from day to day or hour to hour. I've been debating on what to do. He has actually lived as a cage mate with a male spectacled amazon. They are for sure "The Odd Couple". Recently, the Derbyan has become very aggressive with the little amazon, very similar to the way a pair of breeders will often become. I wonder what would happen if I separate them? I also wonder if I were to purchase a female, would he possibly bond to her and become a breeding pair? Thirdly, do you think he would calm down and be more predictable and handleable if he were separated from his buddy? Do you know where I might be able to acquire a female and what would be a good price? I live in the Midwest, if that help in answering the price question. Though Ricky has been one of my prized possessions, due to the fact that they are fairly rare (at least around here) and one of the most colorful and beautiful birds I've ever seen, especially for being as large as he is. There are lots of colorful small bird and of course many beautifully colored macaws, but he's kind of mid size at about 23 inches long. I hope you get this and you are able to email me at Renee_in_WI@yahoo.com or even call me at 815-980-8222. Sorry, I hope it isn't too many questions, but I don't know who else to turn to. If I were to sell him, what should I ask for a price and if I find a female, what should I expect to pay? Thank you in advance.
Beverly, or anyone else who has this type of bird how much do they cost or go for if I would like to buy one, I seem to not be able to find one... thanks for your help.. Fred
Hi Beverly,
I am looking for a pair of Derbyans or babies do you currently have or expect any?
Beverly,
I have been looking for a female Derbyan. Do you have one or do you know anyone? Lucy
This is an update of my previous entry.
My derbyan that I handfed out is becoming a downright horrible pet. Having been handfed for almost 2 months and much handling it should be as sweet a hand fed baby could be.
Its behavior resembles what I refer to as "production babies;" babies that are simply fed and returned to their clutchmates where the only interaction with a human is being picked up, shot full of food and set back into their enclosures. This bird also bites whenever any move it made upon it. My other Derbyan does not do this. It also cowers in its cage whenever any movement is made in its direction. Veteran bird keepers may think this bird was never even handfed to begin with.
I feel this Derbyan is the most useless pet bird Ive had. Im most disappointed in that all the attention and socialization it has received in a home environment has resulted in this fearful, limitly handlable bird. The only thing this bird is good for is color (when it matures). Other than that, it may as well just be free flighted in an aviary. Then again it may possibly be just the personality of this particular bird.
My second derbyan (this one was weaned already and was handled minimally while living at the store) has been a much better behaved pet. However this one is cage territorial and bites when its to be taken out. When perched on my shoulder, it quietly sits and does not mess with my ears or glass's arm (the other Derbyan cannot be kept on my shoulder). It also doesnt try to fly away when I take it out unlike the other Derby. It readily enjoys human company however still does not appreciate being stroked. Despite the shortcomings this Derbyan has, it is a much more handlable and I enjoy it. How ironic that a bird with a fraction of the attention given to it has become a much better bird.
I have now seen you refer to that poor Derbyan as a "useless pet bird" a "downright horrible pet" and then say "then only thing this bird is good for is color". As your post is years old, you probably aren't around anymore but shame on you! Every animal deserves love, a word I have yet to see you use regarding any of your birds.
Not all birds are alike and some can be quirky. I bred many birds for many years. One, a military macaw I finally named Sergeant cus he reminded me of a drill Sergeant in the Army. I did everything I could think of and his sister was just a sweetheart. Sergeant was just very difficult and I decided to hold him back for breeding as no way he could be a pet. 7 or so years went by and I get a call and this fella wants a male breeder and I tell him about Sergeant. Sergeant has been in a flight with toys and a blue/gold macaw for the 7 years but definitely not handled. Fella says perfect and I ship Sergeant across the country. Sergent looks at the fella and says "I love you" and walks up to him and steps up on his hand. Go figure. Anyway, Sergeant got married and had babies ut I couldn't believe this fella could pick Sergeant up and he did. A good breeder will hold back stock at times cuz for some reason they just realize that this one particular bird is not pet quality. It doesn't mean your derbyan won't be a pet, or won't come around as obviously Sergeant did but maybe it needs a different approach, or start over or beats me after that.
I agree with these others. This is probably a comment that is years too late, but that's a horrible mentality for anyone who handles the birds. If that's really how you feel, then you probably should find the birds a new home and look for something else...
tony yearsley 14-1-2012 I HAVE A DERBYAN CALLED FRED HE IS 2 YEARS OLD HE IS THE BEST BUDY THAT ANY ONE COULD AS FOR. THANK YOU FOR A GREAT SITE
I have had Asia since the was a five week old little bald baby. She is now 8 and one of the most calm, loving and sociable birds that I have met. She doesn't talk (although she can) however I prefer my birds to be more bird-like than human like and does affection on her own terms only. She is strong and very willful but never nasty. She is my first Derbyan and I was nervous before I got her however I could never have imagined what wonderful birds they are.
It is so wonderful to get a baby bird and grow with it. You know them and a familiar friend with all aspects of their personlity. Besides they always train their himan - we just have to learn.
I want a Derbyan parrot and I wan wondering how much they cost plz tell me so I can get one thank you
I have a 16 year old female looking for a good home for her.
Hello, where are you located?
I'm getting my 1st Derby baby tomorrow. He's about 3 months old and I'm so excited!!!!!!!!!!!
Congratulations
I just got my son his Derbyan for his 21st birthday. What a beautiful bird and so docile. He is 7 months old.
We got our derbyan when he was 9mo old. He turned two in May and is really a delight. He is quite a talker, but we don't have much time to teach him tricks. When we are home from work, he thinks we should be in the same room or he really let's us know with his loud squawking. If he thinks we are mad at him and tell him NO, he tells us "I love papa,papa, dad n' dad and BARNEY!!! Works every time, lol.
How can you resist? Oh... and who is Barney?
If anyone has any information about where I can find a female Derbyan at a decent price, please contact me to pass on any information you have. Thank you all for this great group of very informed Derbyan owners.
Go to bird talk and look up breeders ads in the back and see what you can find. You can also try online - I don't know where you live - and look for breeders.
If you are still looking for a female derbyan contact Wendys Winged Companion in FL (different Wendy). You can find her on birdbreeders.com I am getting a male from her tomorrow. This will be the 2nd bird I've gotten from Wendy and even with having to ship, she is wonderful to deal with. There was one female in the clutch that she thought she'd sold, but I just checked after seeing your post and the female is still available. Good Luck.
Good Evening Renee,
As Wendy Scott relayed, I do have 1 female derbyan available. She is the oldest of the clutch, and the only female. Her mother talks up a storm and runs the roost! Please feel free to email me at wendyswingz@bellsouth.net. I'd love to help in any way I can.
Wendy S., last weekend I got a male from Wendy C. from the same clutch as yours :D Email me! It will be fun to watch my little guy's brother grow up, would you agree? :) missi.bellande@gmail.com
My Derbyan is called "Bombay". He is handsome and loving. I purchase him four years ago and I recommend this bird to the beginner, as well as the advance bird lover. He has a large vocabulary and can master tricks with ease. There are few articles written about the Derbyan Parakeet and I thank you for your information.
Did you have a daughter named billie michelle, kim, tanya?
I have a mixed opinion about Derbyans. Speaking abilities in birds were never a high requirement of mine so I will omit that part of vocal capabilities. I have two Derbyans. Both came from the same bird store. One which I handfed out and the other I bought later on from the same store. Both have standoffish personalities and dislike being touched. They will however tolerate being perched on a hand and seem content to extend that much of their comfort with human contact. As a veteran bird keeper I find derbyans to be rather unresponsive and quite frankly a useless pet bird if compared to conures or lories (though that is subject to opinion and individual bird personalities). They would however make gregarious aviary birds and probably enjoy that sort of setting moreso than a home environment.
Chris,
You don't sound at all as though you enjoy these birds. Do you still have them? I would be interested in purchasing a female from you, if you have one. If you don't, I would love some advice on where to get a female.
Thank you,
Renee
Can Derbyan Parakeets live with cockatiels?
I would have to say it is possible. Before placing them all together make sure you take the time properly introduce them by putting their cages next to each other. Then the next step, which must be done under extreme supervision, would be allowing them playtime together. Stay close in case there is a problem that you tend to quickly. The third step I would suggest moving them all into an entirely different larger cage. The purpose of that is to make sure nobody feels intruded upon by moving the tiles into the Derbyan cage or vice versa. Many birds are territorial when it comes to the safe haven and comfort of their own cage. Hope I helped and good luck