Do parrots get attached to other birds? What happens if they separate?

Without knowing how long ago you introduced the birds, it could be hard to say. It may be that the two need more time to bond and get to know each other, before they accept each other. Offering toys that both can interact with together may help them bond. Making sure everyone has access to food, water, and perching space without competition can also help reduce stress and fighting over resources, which can help your birds get along better.

Poor Greenie, though bonded birds do often show signs of grief after losing a mate, not all do. While you are not seeing signs of grief in Greenie, it can be extremely difficult to determine whether a bird might be interested in another cage mate. In the wild, birds often do pair up and many of them live in large flocks so it makes sense that many house birds would want a friend, however, in the wild birds (even bonded mating pairs) do not live in such close quarters as they do in cages in our homes. Because of this, I always tell my bird owners that if they are considering adding another bird to their family, prepare for what you might do if the two do not end up getting along (you may need space for two cages, as well as twice the number of cages, bowls, toys, etc.). Even if two birds will ultimately get along I recommend owners introduce their birds on neutral territory (do not stick the new bird immediately into your other bird's cage). Spend a few days with the two birds getting to know each other outside of a cage, try different scenarios (feeding, toys, bathing, etc.) and always be on hand to make sure if they do not get along, you can be available to keep everyone safe. If things go well you can introduce them into a more neutral cage, such as the one the new bird has been in for only a few days, for short periods of supervised time, separating them at night. After a few days, if this goes well you can try them in the cage you want them to be in together long term. The key is slow a introduction, patience, and lots of praise and rewards for good behavior. Good luck, I hope this helps!

Thanks for your question about the birds in your household. You are correct in being concerned about bonding with your bird if there is another in the house - sometimes it is more common for the birds to bond with one another than with the humans present in the household. This can be especially true with more shy species, like budgies. I would recommend using positive reinforcement for both of the birds to continue the bonding process that you have started. You can find treats that the birds like and reward them for allowing you to come near them, having them step on your fingers, etc. I would say that your sister should also be doing the same, as that will get them used to multiple people handling and interacting with them. I hope this gives you a place to start, and congratulations on your new family members!

There is truth in the phrase "Birds of a feather flock together". As long as Alfred has his flock to be with, he will likely choose them over you. Don't take it personally, it's just how some birds can be. If he is happy, enjoy his happiness. You can try spending more time with him and offering treats, but do not be discouraged if he doesn't regain that "trust" again.

I think Jim may be enough so you're not overcrowding the cage for now. Birds, like people, can experience grief, so Jolly is likely missing her friend Joy. You are doing the right thing by keeping her company and giving her a little extra love an attention. If she doesn't perk up, or seems lonely, even with your other bird there, adding a new friend may be a consideration, but it may be best to give her some time first.

Two weeks is still a very short time for a bird to be with a new owner, and it can take months sometimes before a bird will start to bond with you. I would keep trying to be patient with Pearla, and give her more time to settle in and get used to you. If she has a favorite treat, you can offer it each time you come by to visit to help her get used to you, and if she becomes scared or stressed, take a break and try again later. Don't try to force the interaction until she is ready. If your other bird is getting used to you more quickly, it may also help Pearla with getting used to you if she sees the other bird trusts you too.

Budgies are social animals. Just because they fight sometimes doesn't mean they hate each other. They often interact to enforce a social hierarchy. If you need to keep them separate, try letting them out at the same time to have periods of time together, although this could stimulating the re-establishment of their social standings. Good luck.