Bird

BIRDS

Pet birds have been around for hundreds of years.  Some birds can be tamed enough to hold cuddle and interact with, while others never tame down.  Pet birds range in size from minute finches weighing only ounces to large Macaws and Cockatoos that may by 2 to 3 feet in length and weigh several pounds.

FEEDING

For years bird seed was the staple for pet birds.  After much research it was found that seed is a good base but is often higher in fat than is really needed.  Pellets offered a solution, however many birds completely rejected pellets.  A combination of seed, pellets, and supplements (usually fresh fruit and vegetables) seems to be the best solution.

HEALTH

Pet Birds need to see a veterinarian.  Birds are very good at hiding any illness and usually by the time it is discovered it is too late.  There are some diseases that birds can carry that may be transmitted to humans.

OTHER CONCERNS

Make sure your Pet Bird has a cage that is large enough to accommodate your bird.  Ask a hundred bird breeders about cage size and you will probably get a hundred different answers.  As a general rule the bigger the better.  Bar spacing must be small enough to keep the bird from putting its head through yet strong enough to keep from being destroyed.  Toys of appropriate size are appreciated by most birds and will often prevent feather plucking.  Pet birds should never be left with other pets unsupervised.  Birds will usually tolerate children, but once again supervision is necessary as even the beak of a budgie can cause a bloody wound.  Pet Birds are susceptible to drafts and overheating.