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Do's and Dont's

Here is a list of helpful do's and don'ts that we wish we knew when we first became bird parents.

Of course this list is far from complete, and if there is any question, always consult with your avian vet.

Some of these things  are also considered debatable in the bird communities.

These are just opinions from members of our group.

If you are a bird owner, you know that every single day is a learning experience. These just happen to be things we wished we knew that very first day our babies came home!

As with all new additions to your family, there are do's and don'ts with your new bird.

1. You should find a veterinarian in your area that knows how to treat avians and make an appointment for a check up. (preferably avian certified)
You will then know if your bird has any physical problems and is at the right weight. You will also know what diet is best for your new addition.

2. Research your bird's species to find their likes and dislikes.
You will also want to know what size cage your bird needs and their behavior patterns. Knowing their behavior will help you detect if your bird is ill, unhappy or just being herself.

3. Listen to those gut feelings. If you think your bird is ill it probably is.
Take it to the vet. When birds are ill, they can become critical in a matter of hours.

4. If you already live with a bird, and are bringing another bird into your home, make sure you have the room to keep them apart for 30 days in case your new addition is ill. You don't want all your birds ill.

5, Always wash your hands before and after handling your birds.
You don't want to spread germs from you to them or from one bird to another.

6. Make sure you have time to spend with your bird outside it's cage.
They like human contact and attention. This also is a bonding time for you and your new pet.

7. Make sure they have fresh water at all times and clean cages.
Birds aren't particular where they relieve themselves and often times hit the water bowl and food bowl.

8. Be aware that some birds are dusty and some humans are allergic to that dust.
This should be considered when you are choosing your new bird.

9. Bathe your bird often. Either place a bowl of water in their cage for them to bathe in or invest in a spray bottle and mist them.
This encourages them to preen themselves and cuts down on the dander they shake into the air. Some birds enjoy the shower even. Make sure it is not too hot or too cold. Lots of people shower with their birds even.
never leave your bird unattended around a water source such as a big bowl, birds can drown.

10. Introduce new objects to your bird slowly. If they appear afraid of a new toy, place it beside their cage at first until they become accustomed to it. Then you can place it in the cage.

11. Birds are inquisitive. It is like having a two year old in the house. Make sure your home, or at least the area the bird is being kept in is "child proof"

Remove any wires they can chew on or anything they can get hurt on. Remove any lead items or lead paint. Make sure any paint used is child safe. If it isn't safe for a child, it isn't safe for your bird. Birds, like toddlers, like to chew.

12. If you choose to not clip their wings, remember they frighten easy and an open door or window is quickly accessed.

13. We have found that with smaller birds it is a good idea to keep corn starch handy. They often hit their wings on the sides of cages or furniture and can break a blood feather easily. The corn starch applied to the wound will help stop the bleeding.

14. Expect to be bitten. This is the only defense your feathered friend has.

15. One of the first things you should teach your bird is to step up. If there is an emergency, you need to be able to get your bird out of the cage quickly. You can teach them to step up on you or a perch.

16. When trying a new food on your bird, take a bite yourself in front of them. Birds are like toddlers, they learn from watching you.

17. NEVER EVER leave your bird alone unsupervised outside of the cage. It only takes one second to get a beak on an electrical outlet
18 Never feed your birds avocados, onions,milk or chocolate. These items are toxic to them.

19. If you have the money when purchasing a cage, bigger is always better. But make sure the bars are not too large where Junior can get his head stuck.

20. Be aware that some birds are escape artists. Quakers for example are known for their great lock picking abilities. Take this into consideration
when purchasing a cage.

21. Make sure you get your bird from a reputable breeder. Consider the option of a rescue group if you think you can handle the quirks of a "rehomed" bird.
Any reputable rescue group will make sure your family and the bird "fit" before finalizing an adoption.

22. Before bringing a bird into your home consider your lifestyle. If your busy and don't have enough time for the bird, don't bring one home.

23.Consider how long the type of bird you are thinking of adopting will live. Some birds live a long time. If your 80 years old, it might not be a wise idea to bring a baby Macaw home unless you have made arrangements for the birds care after your death.

24. Place your birds cage away from hot or cold drafts. Also place it away from any sunny windows. The most active room in your house is usually the best place. But also remember your feather friend needs
at least 10-12 hours of quiet sleep every evening. Consider a sleep cage in a quiet room if you have a very active household.