These are great pets and are ideal for children over ten years old. They are trusting and lively creatures and can become very tame and can live up to 25years! They live in large groups and are social birds, so I recommend at least two together for their well-being. A lone bird that is meant to be social can acquire behaviour problems if made to live on its own. A mirror or plastic bird is not a suitable replacement for a live partner and can also stimulate unnatural behaviours.
Parrots, Macaws, African Grey’s and other bigger birds are a lot more demanding attention-wise and to house. These birds are attention seekers and extremely social and should not be bought or considered if there is not a lot of time to be spent with these pets. Saying this they have huge personalities and can make lifelong pets.
Housing;
The bigger the aviary the better as birds love their space and like to spread their wings without hitting off the bars of the cage. Birds are used to so much wide space naturally you should get as large a cage as you can accommodate – there is no “too large”. Trying to re-create their natural environment will keep them happy and healthy and prevent behaviour issues from forming.
It is ideal to keep the cage in a peaceful area of natural light so the bird can wake and sleep as naturally as possible. Don’t have them in a location that has false light 24/7. The area should be well ventilated with fresh air but draught free. If beside a window it must have shelter from direct sunlight and birds do not have a great tolerance to changes in temperature so a stable environment should be maintained. It must be protected from unhealthy fumes such as cigarette smoke, cooking fumes and any nauseating gases.
These birds are all quite active and need stimulation to keep them occupied or they can begin to self-mutilate; this is over grooming and can be caused by boredom and lack of stimulation. The bird will also need to fly around freely for several hours a day – it is cruel to keep them ignored or locked up without free flight. This will keep your pet happy and stimulate its natural behaviours. This should be done in a sheltered room or garden which is made safe – close all windows or doors and hide any cables or poisonous plants.
These are great pets and are ideal for children over ten years old. They are trusting and lively creatures and can become very tame and can live up to 25years! They live in large groups and are social birds, so I recommend at least two together for their well-being. A lone bird that is meant to be social can acquire behaviour problems if made to live on its own. A mirror or plastic bird is not a suitable replacement for a live partner and can also stimulate unnatural behaviours.
Parrots, Macaws, African Grey’s and other bigger birds are a lot more demanding attention-wise and to house. These birds are attention seekers and extremely social and should not be bought or considered if there is not a lot of time to be spent with these pets. Saying this they have huge personalities and can make lifelong pets.
Chew Toys;
Birds have a natural tendency to want to chew, as this action keeps their beaks in great condition and relieves stress and anxiety. Without a toy to chew, birds can resort to feather-plucking and other unhealthy behaviours. To keep your bird healthy and entertained, provide
chew-toys, like cuttlebone and
chew sticks
Plenty of perches should be provided – natural wood is fine as it prevents calluses. These birds are very inquisitive and need a lot of play things – such as ladders, ropes balls chew toys etc.
Birds do like to bathe several times a week. A suitable container to do this is essential and should be changed regularly. Some birds also enjoy spraying themselves with warm water.
Naturally the cage should be kept as clean as possible and droppings removed daily. Most problems with these creatures stem from poor husbandry and poor hygiene. It should be disinfected regularly with a suitable product and rinsed well afterward. Birds can be allergic to strong chemicals so a good rinsing is important.
Handling;
Trust is very important for any new pet and especially so your new pet bird. They are timid creatures and so patience shall be required. At the start keep your new pet in its house (up to 3 weeks) until they can settle quietly into their new home and get used to the surroundings, smells, sights and faces. During this period you may spend some time each day talking to them and feeding tasty little treats from your hand.
After establishing a bond you may let the bird out for free flight providing you have made it safe to do so. Draw the curtains the first few times so it can recognize where the window panes are. Do it when the bird is hungry and will return to the cage or your hand for its favourite tasty treat. If the bird is willing it may perch on your hand. Don’t startle it and make sudden movements , be calm and gentle.
Food;
Your bird will need a healthy and well balanced diet. There are different feeding requirements for each bird so pay particular attention to your species needs. Most will enjoy an approprieate feed mix from the petshop and to ensure a varied natural diet you may supplement it with fresh fruits, veg and maybe certain nuts. This will also keep the pet entertained and interested. Dandelions and lettuce are usually safe choice and fresh fruits. Birds can also require a grit which helps them digest foor- enquire which suits your bird best. Mineral mixtures and limestone can be obtained from your local vet or petshop.
How do I pick a healthy bird?
The bird should look healthy at first sight. It should have a clean shiny coat with no bare patches or lumps or bumps. No parasites should be visible and no weepy crusty lesions around eyes, ears, beak or bum. The beak should not be too long. It should be bright lively and interested in its surroundings, with a good appetite. Be aware that most species of bird will moult a couple of times a year and that this is completely natural. A bird may find it difficult to fly at this time and can be helped by lots of peace and quiet, multi-vitamins and high quality protein food depending on your bird. Best of luck!
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