croz124

Thanks for the info, I believe you answered some of my questions last night in regards to those internet scams. I can't believe the nerve of some people in taking advantage of others.

I posted a topic last night about internet ad scams and we are totally fed up. A pet store is out of the question, so our next route is through a breeder. Trying to determine who is genuine about the welfare of their Grays and who is out to make a buck could pose another challenge for us. If anyone is willing to recommend a reputable breeder, we would certainly appreciate it. We live about 30 min from Va. Beach, VA. if that helps. We have never owned a Gray, but have had smaller birds. We understand the commitment and time involved in taking care of African Grays and have educated ourselves as much as possible without having one yet. We wanted one years ago but realized it would not be fair to any bird with trying to raise young children and starting new careers. Things have settled down for us now as we have nothing but time to care for one and make him/her welcome in our family.

Look up the classified ads through Lycos and when you start reading them, even the ones for sale, many sound so similar. Another option I looked at was a legitimate adoption through a rescue service, however, many birds have been so severly neglected. One Gray got so stressed he plucked all his feathers out. Many others have developed unbreakable bad habits.

No, I live by Va. Beach, VA and she claims to live in West Palm Beach, FL. I requested we talk on the phone and she claims to have no phone, her only means of communication is through the internet.

Thanks for the advice.I think in these two cases they appear to be scams because one lady told me she had no phone when I requested a phone conversation. All she mentioned was she would ship the birds for an even $400. The other person had such terrible English and was saying stuff about being in the Navy and going on a mission to Cameroon. Well, I happen to be in the Navy and saw through the BS. I'll keep looking carefully but will stay away from the pet stores as well. I just feel so bad for those birds in the stores.

I have recently been looking for an African Gray, maybe two. I am undecided about a Congo or Timneh, they are both pretty. Anyways I came across a couple of ads through internet classifieds. The ads stated they had two 18mo Congos for free to good home. The lady replied back to me saying they were vet checked, DNA, microchip and great health. I have also seen a couple at local pet stores for prices ranging from $800-$1200. My question is why she would be giving them away when she could sell them like other sellers? Are there various scams out there because it seems nothing is free anymore or could this lady really be genuine and want the best owners she could find.