| All birds should be quarantined
for a minimum of 30 days after a complete new bird vet check which should
be done by an avian specialist. This is to inhibit the spread of disease
should the new bird be infected.
Feed your new bird last and wash
hands.
Temperature needs to be adjusted
gradually. Normal room temperature is fine, just be sure they are not exposed
to drafts from doors, windows, air conditioning vents. If a bird
is puffed up and shivering, it needs vet care immediately. |
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Natural light is best for your birds
health, but artificial works great. In warm months do not put your bird
in front of a window and forget him, he could overheat. Tropical Birds
need humidity, 40 - 50% in your house is comfortable. If it is too dry
the birds skin and air passages can be affected.
All birds need 8 - 12 hours of sleep
each day. Cover the cages in the evenings if you keep your bird in a room
where you are up late.
Purchase the largest cage you can
afford and have the space for. This is your birds home and he may spend
a lot of time in it.
Buy perches of different diameters,
extra food bowls and plenty of toys. Be sure to inspect all new toys before
purchasing for possible dangers such as key chain rings, small jingle bells,
metal parts that could contain lead or zinc.
Provide a toy that is indestructible
(like acrylic) and one that can be chewed and really enjoyed by your bird.
Everyday you should change the newspaper
in the bottom of the cage and wash and disinfectant the food and water
bowls.
Perches should be cleaned weekly
or more often if the bird has made a mess on them with food or placed where
he will soil on them.
All birds need a good healthy diet
of fruit, nuts, vegetables, pasta, rice seeds and pellets. All fresh food
should be removed after 2 - 3 hours to prevent spoiling.
All birds should have their wings
trimmed for the safety of the bird. A proper trim will allow the bird to
glide to the floor without hitting like a rock. Unclipped birds are in
danger of flying into windows or out a door.
Nails should be trimmed every 1 -
2 months depending on nail growth and how sharp they are. Always keep a
product such as Kwik-Stop on hand when doing the trimming.
All birds love to take a bath. A
great time is after cleaning the cages and replenishing water and food
bowls in the morning. Just be sure there is a draft-free place for them
to dry.
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