When you have decided that you most certainly would like to become a new pet bird owner, then begins the process of picking what species of bird to own. This is a process that takes ample time and consideration as there are many things that go into becoming a successful bird owner. Birds are intelligent, loving, articulate creates who should receive a good safe home and a lifelong commitment to care from their owners. The needs and requirements of birds can vary greatly from species to species so its important to understand what care is needed before bringing a bird home.
Quaker parrots are very popular, very sociable medium size pets.
As an example canaries and finches often remain in and enjoy being in their cages. Parrots on the other hand require daily periods of relaxation and play outside of their cages with their owners. Parrots should be taken out of their cages at least twice a day with plenty of time for relaxation and play. Many parrots adore being sociable and truly love spending tons of time with their owners. Medium to large size parrots require that much more care and are not recommended for first time bird owners. Knowing how much time you have to dedicate to your pet will help determine the best species for your living situation.
A baby Blue and Gold Macaw looking for trouble!
A huge consideration before bringing a pet bird home is how much space is available in the living environment for a cage, and if pets are even allowed. Typically the larger the bird, the larger the recommended cage will be. All bird species have a recommended minimum cage size for them to be happy and comfortable while inside. Cages are not only expensive but can be very bulky and space occupying. If a bird is being brought into a small apartment or home, selecting a pet that requires a cage that’s manageable for the space is essential. In many places small birds like budgies and parrotlets aren’t considered pets and can likely be brought in without any notice including the small cage and accessories (though we aren’t advocating to break any rules! 😉).
Budgies are still one of the most popular parrots to own as a pet.
Medium to larger birds will require more space along with accompanying very noisy activities. Many large pets enjoy screaming as loud as they can, creating tons of noise by banging their toys around and being generally disruptive in different ways. These sort of activities will need to be expected and not create problems in and around a persons living space as they will be going on for the entire life of the parrot.
This Scarlet Macaw is about to get noisy!
Pet birds create some mess that will continually need to be cleaned up. Things like feathers, seed hulls, some droppings, discarded food, toy remains and more will have to be tidied up regularly. All birds, regardless of species, do make some noise even those who are deemed “quiet”. Some enjoy whistling or annunciating at different times of the day while others will chatter and chit-chat for hours on end. Other species screech, howl and scream to their hearts content. Its very important to decide on what level of noise you will be comfortable with as a bird will create noise for its entire life. As an example if a Cockatoo seems wonderful but is too noisy a Cockatiel may be the perfect fit.
Beware - the first bird very often leads to the second, and the third and so on!
Pet birds are an investment in money as well. Pet birds have an up front cost that can vary from relatively inexpensive for a Budgie or Lovebird to many thousands of dollars for a Cockatoo or African Grey. After this the price of many other aspects will need to be factored in such as a cage, food, treats, toys, the first of many veterinarian visits and grooming. The price of all the items surrounding the bird can very well be more than purchase price of the bird itself!
This African Grey is enjoying a quick snack on a perch cup.
Before bringing the bird home, be sure to have bought the needed supplies and setup the home for the pet. Have the cage in the optimal place in the living space setup with its supplies such as basic perches, food and water dishes. Be sure to have food and treats purchased and ready to be used. A highly recommended tip is to schedule the first veterinarian visit with an avian specialist prior to bringing the bird home. Pet birds require special veterinarian care - having a vet who knows you and your pet is invaluable for when a health issue arises. This will greatly reduce the amount of time it takes for your pet to be seen in an emergency along with a much better chance of recovery as the vet will know your pet and what best route of treatment to take.
Having a vet on hand is an invaluable resource in an emergency.
Taking ample time to prepare when purchasing a pet bird is an excellent way to become a successful owner and provide a bird a long happy life. Unfortunately many birds are put into foster care as they are brought into an environment that isn’t correct for them or their owner. Understanding and taking as much time is needed to prepare avoids this situation from happening and results is a much happier bird and owner.
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