Extremely sociable by nature, birds require constant companionship, education, and interaction. Birds are suitable both as pets and as guests of your garden. If you are considering becoming a bird owner, the necessary care includes providing suitable habitat and food and monitoring the animal's health status. You will also need to give him a lot of attention and interact with him to keep him happy and active. Or, if you're trying to encourage birds to come and eat in your yard, you'll need to know basic care to make their visits safer and more enjoyable. This article offers a general overview of how to care for birds, useful things to keep in mind if you own a bird as a pet or if you host them in your garden.
Steps
Part 1 of 8: Choosing a Bird as a Pet
Step 1. Choose carefully the species you want
Not all bird species are suitable for making pets, and not all birds have a temperament or need that is compatible with what you can offer them. It is very important to learn as much as possible about the species you are interested in, long before deciding what kind of bird to buy. The animal must be able to adapt to your lifestyle, your interests and your ability to care for it throughout its life (which can be a very long time for some species). You will want to interact with the animal every day and monitor it when it is outside its cage, where possible.
Don't buy a bird impulsively. You need some time to research its needs and the longevity of the species before you decide to take one home. Search for books on birds or read online articles about various species and their particular needs to find out more
Step 2. Familiarize yourself with popular bird species as pets
Parrots, parakeets and cockatoos are generally the most popular birds as pets; other suitable species include canaries, finches, lovebirds, doves and pigeons. The more exotic the chosen species is and less widespread in homes, the more you will have to think carefully about whether it is the one you can take care of appropriately.
Step 3. Consider the longevity of the animal
Some birds, such as parrots, live very long, so this factor should be taken into consideration if you decide to buy one. You may have to think about who will take care of the animal if you are no longer able to do so. In some cases, it may be preferable to adopt an animal in distress rather than buying a young animal.
Step 4. If you take more than one, consider placing the animals in an appropriate space
Some types of birds can live together, while others don't get along well; the "trauma of living together" is commonplace and can depend on factors such as personality, difference in size, gender and species. Depending on the species, you may be able to keep two males, two females, or a pair together. If they struggle, you will have to separate them. Do all the necessary research in advance and speak to experienced breeders or sellers; you can also speak to zoo or animal shelter staff for advice.
Special methods are often required to place a new bird in a cage where another bird already lives. Talk to your vet or an experienced breeder for helpful advice
Part 2 of 8: Where to Keep the Birds
Step 1. Purchase the right type of cage to house the bird of your choice
Cage requirements vary by species, so proceed depending on which one you choose. That said, some simple standard requirements include:
- The size of the cage must be sufficient for the animal to fully spread its wings. For some birds, being able to fly short distances inside the cage can be an important factor to consider in ensuring a healthy living space. At a minimum, large birds should only be kept in cages that measure one and a half times the wingspan of the animal (in length, width and height).
- The bars of the cage should not be too close together: otherwise, the animal's claws could get caught in them. Likewise, the bars must not be spaced so far apart that the animal's head can get stuck in them - or the bird can pass and escape.
- The larger the cage, the better. Although larger cages are more expensive and more difficult to clean, space in the cage is a crucial element, particularly if you are often away from home and / or don't have time to get your pet out of the cage to do some work. ' of movement. Cages that are too small can cause behavioral problems.
Step 2. Consider the shape of the cage
A simple rectangular cage is always the best choice. Round cages are not suitable for birds. There is barely room for the animal and there are no corners to take refuge in to feel safe. Also, the round cages often cause the bird to turn its head continuously, and the animal can go crazy for this constant turning.
Never choose cages with guillotine openings, as they make escape easier and there is also a risk that the bird, trying to escape, gets its head stuck under the door
Step 3. Make sure there is more than enough space if you are hosting multiple specimens
Never keep birds in a small cage again. Birds need space to escape and take refuge, forage for food, fly and stay away from other birds, so the more birds you have, the larger the cage needs to be. Aviaries (large cages similar to small huts) are best suited for keeping multiple specimens together.
If you want to get birds of different species, you need to make sure they are compatible and can coexist
Step 4. Make sure the cage is placed in a warm and comfortable place
The location of the cage will depend on the climate of the place where you live. If the winters are very cold, with temperatures below freezing, snow, etc., you will not be able to keep the cage outside in this season. If you live in a temperate or warm enough place, an outdoor aviary may be more suitable than an indoor cage. Again, you will need to do some research to know the needs of your chosen birds, the suitable temperatures and to evaluate those needs against the climate of the area where you live.
- In some cases, a combination of indoor and outdoor cages can provide the optimal accommodation for your birds. You can vary according to the seasons and the weather, or choose different accommodations for the day and night.
- Birds that live in hanging cages can easily be transported outside and placed on a porch or similar place to get fresh air throughout the day. Always remember to bring the birds back into the house before the cold evening and night air arrives.
- Read the "Hygiene and Health" section to learn about the symptoms of overheating and freezing in birds.
- The personality of the animal also affects the positioning of the cage. While a very sociable bird may like to be in the center of attention and constantly see people, a more anxious bird may be better off in a quieter place, away from the hustle and bustle (but still with the ability to interact with humans).
- Avoid placing the cage in front of a window for a long time. The animal would be constantly on guard against possible "enemies", which would make it feel agitated. Placing the cage against a wall can relieve the animal from fear of predators.
Step 5. Place some old newspaper sheets on the bottom of the cage
This makes cleaning much easier and the paper can be removed easily, then put on a new layer for later use. Keep a supply of paper close at hand by storing old newspapers.
Part 3 of 8: Bring the Bird Home
Step 1. Transport the animal using a suitable container
It must be rigid, such as a cat carrier or a cage specially recommended for transport by the breeder or shopkeeper. Secure it well in your car so it doesn't travel on the way home. You can cover the cage with a towel to make the animal feel safe, but make sure that enough air is passing through so that the bird stays cool and breathes well.
Step 2. When you bring the bird home for the first time, leave it alone for a day to adjust to the new environment
This also applies if you move the cage to another area of the house when the animal is still quite young. Giving him time to adapt will help the animal grow by getting used to its environment in its own way, without feeling threatened by humans looming over it. Either way, be sure to give him enough food and water.
Part 4 of 8: Feeding the Birds
Step 1. Identify the precise dietary needs of the bird species you are caring for
Some birds only feed on specific foods, while others may have a more varied diet. As specific dietary requirements depend on the species, it is strongly advised that you inquire carefully about this subject based on the species you have chosen. Some general nutrition remarks include:
- Make sure you have the correct food for your birds. You have to find the right foods for them, as some birds are picky, while others have very strict dietary requirements. The feed container usually comes with a label specifying which birds it is suitable for. If you don't know what the best options are, ask an experienced breeder or dealer or ask your questions on a specialized forum of people who care for that species.
- You may need to put some gravel (sand and pebbles) in a bowl; some passerines need it to break up seeds in the goiter (chest area). However, not all birds need it, and if they eat too much of it, it can result in a blockage. Finches and canaries often need some, but never give it to parakeets, parakeets or parrots.
- Millet is a reward: never give large quantities to the bird. It is most used as a bonus during training.
- Pellets or other similar bird food can be a good way to ensure adequate nutrition for your pet; as they tend to combine all the necessary seeds, vegetables, fruits and grains, the bird is less likely to become picky and choose only one food, and is therefore more likely to eat a balanced diet.
- Give your feathered friends the same types of healthy fruits and vegetables that you eat, but without the toppings. This improves and varies their diet. A mixture of different foods is healthy and popular with birds.
- Give new seeds every day: Always empty food containers at the end of the day to keep seeds fresh and clean.
- If your bird needs nectar, this is a highly specific diet and you will need to learn as much as possible about it before purchasing the pet.
Step 2. Learn what you shouldn't feed the bird
There are some foods that are not suitable for many species. For example, don't give the bird alcohol, chocolate, or avocado. These foods contain chemicals that can be toxic to birds.
Step 3. Always provide fresh water
You need to put a drinking bottle and fill it every day with water at room temperature. You need to check the drinking bottle every day to make sure it works and you need to make sure your pet knows how to use it. Change the water every day to make sure it is always clean and fresh.
- Use a drip drinking bottle if possible - this will prevent faeces and other dirt from getting into the water.
- Dehydration can occur very quickly in birds, within 1-2 days of being unable to drink.
Step 4. Maintain good hygiene of food and water containers
These must be placed higher than branches and perches, as otherwise the birds often make needs inside them, which is unhealthy.
Step 5. Try to feed the birds regularly, preferably at the same time every day
It can be when you eat or before; in any case, choose a time and try to respect it, so that the animal knows when to expect food. If you want to respect the time when animals feed in the wild, feed them approximately half an hour after sunrise and immediately after sunset. During the day you can leave bites of fruit and vegetables in the cage.
Again, you need to know the type of bird you own. Smaller birds have faster metabolisms and may need to eat more frequently
Step 6. Make feeding interesting for the bird
You can make the feeding experience more enjoyable for your pet by making the meal a moment of interaction as well. For example, encourage your pet to eat one piece of food at a time, straight from your hand, or encourage talking birds to sing and talk to get food.
Part 5 of 8: Entertainment
Step 1. Add toys to the cage to ensure the pet can have fun and feel stimulated
Birds are intelligent animals and need stimulating activities to keep themselves occupied and mentally stimulated.
Step 2. Start with at least four different and interesting toys
Make sure they are safe for the animal and that the claws and beak cannot get hooked on them.
Items that birds cannot safely use include: frayed ropes (they can become knotted in the legs or beak of the animal), cables (they can hurt the bird), bells (the legs could get stuck in the openings)
Step 3. Don't reuse the same toys over and over
Change them every now and then! The animal may get bored having the same toys always available. Just like us, birds appreciate variety and new things. By purchasing new toys, you will increase their enjoyment and reduce the likelihood of the pet peeling off its feathers or engaging in other behaviors caused by boredom.
Try to get perches of different shape and material - this will benefit the bird's legs. Include some wooden perches and some real branches for variation. This helps to "file" the animal's beak and nails, giving you less work. Just be sure to sand the natural wood well before putting it in the cage and never use chemical cleaners, as many of them contain substances that can be toxic to birds
Step 4. Place food and toys in different places in the cage every day
This will satisfy the bird's need to move around in search of food. You can also wedge food between the bars of the cage, hide it inside toys, and hang it from the top or sides of the cage. This will help satisfy the pet's instinct to search for food and also provide mental stimulation.
Step 5. Get the pet used to being touched and held
Pick it up and stroke it regularly. The more often you do this, the happier the animal will be to see you and the more likely it is to greet you with whistles, chirps, or words. This also makes it easier to pick up the bird when it comes to a visit to the vet and make sure it feels reassured by your presence.
Step 6. Make sure the bird gets enough movement every day
This is recommended for all birds that are trained and can be handled safely. If you have a finch or other bird that shouldn't be touched, that's not a problem; but if you have an animal that you want to pick up, that lives in a small cage, or that just needs more exercise, be sure to exercise it regularly. Just remember not to do this in a dangerous room, such as a kitchen, where there may be a hot pot.
Birds don't like being locked in cages all day. If you can get your pet out of the cage regularly, it will make it happier. This is mandatory if you want to have a good relationship with the animal: birds can suffer a lot from being locked up in a cage all the time, considering that they normally fly large distances in nature
Step 7. Give the bird a lot of attention
If he gets a lot of attention, he'll be happier overall and may give you more affection and cuddles. In some cases, the right attention can reduce shyness in some bird species, because familiarity gives confidence.
- Talk to the bird when it walks around the house with you. This is especially important during the first two years you spend together. Birds can learn very quickly and their range of sounds will surprise you. For example, some birds perfectly mimic the sound of water running down the drain as you wash the dishes, perhaps even the sound of the sponge scrubbing the dishes, table and countertop. Some birds may mimic the sound of certain appliances, such as the electric blender, if they see you taking them out of the cage to make a cake or smoothie.
- Play together. For example, the bird may learn to sing softly while playing the piano or another instrument. How smart is your bird!
Part 6 of 8: Hygiene and Health
Step 1. Provide water in a container large enough for the pet to wash itself
Birds do not need to be washed as often as dogs - most of the time the bird will wash itself in its basin, as long as the container is large enough to bathe in. Also, birds bathe during the summer to keep themselves cool, so be sure to provide enough water in warm weather.
- When it is hot, take the animal outside, in its cage or on a perch (only have it come out of the cage if its wings are blocked, so it cannot fly away). Sprinkle water on them - birds love the cool feeling that comes with it.
- If it's cold outside, you can buy a perch that attaches to the wall of your shower cubicle with suction cups and shower it indoors. Many birds will be thrilled!
- Provide the bird with a cuttlefish bone so it can get its beak.
Step 2. Keep the cage clean
A clean cage reduces the chance of developing viral, bacterial, or fungal infections. It is very important to remove the feces regularly to maintain the good health of the animal. Additionally, a bird that lives in a clean environment tends to be more active and happy. If you are not ready to handle this on a daily basis, a bird is not the animal for you.
- Change the litter box regularly.
- Remove feces from perches and toys.
- Remove uneaten food from the bottom of the cage.
- If your pet is moulting (this happens, for example, with parrots), you will need a vacuum cleaner to remove the falling feathers (this tends to occur during periods with higher than normal temperatures).
- Clean the cage only with products that are free of toxic substances. It is very easy to poison a bird, so try to find out if a product is safe before using it.
Step 3. Find out if your pet's wing feathers need to be trimmed
In some birds, such as parrots, this is essential to prevent serious accidents that can occur indoors or in cages. Talk to your vet and find a qualified person to perform this operation. Ticking the feathers is necessary to limit the flight, not to prevent it, and only the primary flight feathers are the subject of this operation, so those who carry it out must know what they are doing.
Nails may also need to be trimmed, particularly in large birds. Usually the nails are not cut in the chicks or in the specimens of smaller size, as these need to stay on the perches. With parrots, for example, this is necessary. Ask your vet for instructions to carry out the operation safely and avoid injuring the animal
Step 4. Understand the signs of an animal that is too hot or too cold
Most birds show the same symptoms in extreme high or low temperatures, and you need to try to remedy it as quickly as possible to avoid making the bird sick. The elements to keep under control are:
- A bird that is too hot: the legs are hot to the touch, the bird may breathe very quickly from the throat, have red nostrils and give out hot breath. These are signs of an emergency and you should see a veterinarian immediately.
- A bird that is too cold: the bird hunches over, trying to cover itself up to the legs with feathers, inflating them. Move the bird out of the cold zone and place it in a warmer place. Windows can be a source of cold air during the winter months.
Step 5. Find a veterinarian qualified to work with birds
Have it checked at the time of purchase and then take it regularly (at least once a year or as recommended by the specialist). If your pet gets sick, this vet will be the first person to consult.
Don't wait if a bird gets sick. These animals are delicate and can quickly get worse. The vet will need to visit the bird as soon as possible
Part 7 of 8: Train the Birds
Step 1. Make a commitment to train the bird
This way you can teach him to get out of the cage and be careful. This will give him much more freedom and the ability to fly, rather than being locked in a cage all day. Training is a form of interaction and plays a vital role in limiting the influence of harmful behavior.
- Without training, birds can bite, scream, pluck their feathers, and develop phobias. It is therefore a very important factor in keeping the bird happy and well adapted to its environment.
- If the bird is well trained, you can also take it to the yard or other open spaces where it can breathe some fresh air and discover new places. But you must be absolutely sure that the bird will come back to you.
- Never train a bird to perch on your shoulder. It may be too close to your eyes and face, in a very dangerous position. The bird would also be at the same height as you and it would be much more difficult to control it.
Step 2. When training the bird outside its room, check the safety of the environment
Make sure the place where it is located is safe; this includes closing windows and shutters, rolling up all cables, closing the toilet seat, making sure the radiators and fireplaces are off (these guidelines apply to any time a bird is flying indoors).
Most birds need to spend time outside the cage. During this time the animal must be supervised and be in a safe environment
Step 3. If you train a bird to talk, make sure it's a species that can
Again, however, birds have different personalities, so don't expect it to be a quick process - each bird will learn at its own pace. Be prepared for humorous and sometimes funny behavior. The bird accepts its own mood swings and you will have to accept the fact that, just like humans, the bird's level of interest can change depending on the time or day.
Step 4. If you plan to keep two birds, keep and train them separately
Once they are fully trained, allow them to interact.
Part 8 of 8: Caring for Wild Birds
Step 1. Encourage the birds to visit your garden
Find ways to attract birds to your garden, for example:
- Grow suitable food or shrubs and trees. Make sure your garden has lots of shrubs. Birds will find insects or nest in the trees and shrubs of your garden. But don't overdo the planning - even a lawn can help birds find worms and take advantage of some pleasant open space.
- Place a pool of water outside the house or on the balcony for the birds to drink. Keep a vase or bowl filled with water on your windowsill or porch. This will allow the birds to always have water available.
- Provide a food source, such as a seed container, even hanging. Use seeds that are suitable for the birds that live in your area.
- Use a nectar dispenser to attract hummingbirds.
- Use different foods, as different varieties of food will attract different bird species. Find out which species frequent your area and focus on their favorite food.
- Keep your pets away from birds.
Step 2. If you want to help birds nest, try encouraging them to use your yard as a suitable place
If you haven't placed nests but the birds still nest in your yard, you can track their progress and help them if needed. Here are some things you could do to encourage wild birds to nest in your yard:
- Place outside the boxes in the most suitable places, particularly when breeding season approaches.
- If you find a bird's nest, make sure it's safe, especially if a storm is approaching. If the weather is bad or getting worse, it might be a good idea to take care of the nest, put it in a small box, and put it back where you found it. In bad weather the nests can fall and these accidents can kill the birds.
Step 3. If you find any birds - especially chicks - outside the nest, it's helpful to know what to do
This depends on the age and health of the bird:
- If you find a chick, put it back in its nest if your babies have taken it out of there.
- If the bird has feathers all over its body except for the area under the wings, place it near bushes or another covered area. Be careful not to place it near an anthill or where a cat might find it.
- If the bird does not have feathers, try to put it back in the nest.
- If you can't find the nest, contact the nearest animal shelter. Several bird species are protected and a license may be required to keep the animal. The shelter may teach you how to feed it until the volunteers can come and get it. Pet shops sell bird mixes.
- Many birds put food directly into the mouth of the young. Pigeons are an exception: it is the chicks that pull food out of their parents' mouths. If you can't feed a pigeon chick, get a syringe that is large enough for the bird to stick its beak in after you cut off the pointy end. Try searching the internet for a diet for pigeon chicks - their dietary needs can vary a lot with age.
- A bird that falls from the nest could develop rickets due to malnutrition. You can find tips on the internet, at an animal shelter, a breeder or your trusted veterinarian.
Step 4. If the wild bird you found is injured or orphaned, you can be very useful
If the bird is alive, take it home and place it in a container (such as a shoe box or something similar), but don't put the lid on to avoid suffocating the animal. Don't worry about the possibility of it flying away - it's probably in shock and won't move for a while. As a precaution, if the bird moves, close the windows and doors in the room you took it to. Contact the nearest animal shelter - they will likely know how to care for it. If you can, take the bird to the shelter: they will know how to take care of it. If that's not possible, keep it for a few hours and see if it starts to recover and fly; if that happens, he has probably recovered and you should free him. These articles may be helpful to you:
- How to feed a baby bird
- How to take care of an injured wild bird
- How to save a bird that has fallen from the nest
- How to take care of a little bird that has bumped into a window
- If the bird dies in the hours you hold it, sadly there isn't much you can do. Take it outside and leave it in a sheltered place. Don't bury him unless you are sure it is legal to do so.
Advice
- Consider covering your birds' cage at night to make the animals feel safe and keep them warm. However, not all birds love this type of arrangement and some may get scared. Try to evaluate the usefulness of the cage cover based on your specimen's reaction.
- Understand the bird's origins to determine the amount of sleep needed. For example, tropical birds need around 10-12 hours of sleep per night to replicate the increased annual darkness levels of their natural habitat.
- Keep learning new ways to care for your pet - Responsible owners never stop studying new ways to care for their pets and keep up to date with the latest breakthroughs for caring for their pets.
- It can be helpful to find a partner to keep your pet company. Try to consider his temperament and understand the potential for compatibility before introducing the two new companions. If you're not sure how to do this, ask an expert or veterinarian for advice.
- Keeping grains handy around the house can help you quickly find bird food outside.
- Each bird kept in a cage must have a nest and sufficient living space.
- Mirrors and bells hanging from perches are great toys for birds. Make sure the bells don't have holes where your pet's paws can get stuck.
- Most people are unaware that the chicks are thrown out of the nest by their parents and live on the ground for about three days, learning to hunt for insects. It is not true that if you touch a chick, the parents will reject it: this is not normal behavior.
- It is advisable to buy a good book on bird health and disease, such as the Merck manual. In this way you will be able to read and know all the problems that can affect a bird and what to do to prevent them or deal with them in case of need.
Warnings
- Avoid throwing chewing gum around the animal. Both domestic and wild birds think chewing gum is some kind of food substance and tend to swallow it. This can be very dangerous, as the animal could choke.
- Do not allow other pets to get close to the bird. Even if they seem to do nothing, the animals are always curious and can suddenly jump.
- Keeping wild birds indoors is illegal in many countries, so you won't be able to keep these birds as pets. If the bird has not yet fully recovered, seek out an active shelter, company, or breeder in your area. They will most likely know how to take care of him.
- Birds can peck and bite, and in some cases, sexual maturity can cause some aggression. Use a towel when dealing with an aggressive dog to prevent painful pecks and distract the animal as much as possible. If the bird tries to peck you, it immediately ceases the type of interaction that prompts it to react this way and tries to interact differently. Never reward bites. If you have a dog with a severe aggression problem, talk to your vet.
- Birds can be noisy and annoying; sometimes, however, their loud calls can indicate that something is wrong. For example, a short, loud sound that is repeated often can indicate that the bird is having some discomfort. Always listen to the sounds your bird makes and learn the ones it normally makes, so you can better understand if a certain type of sound may indicate a problem.
- Don't encourage the bird to perch in your yard or garden if it could be attacked by other pets.
- Be sure to pay due attention to the animal. If you don't intend to love and care for him like a child and only see him as an animal, a bird is not for you.
- If you really love birds, consider not keeping one as a pet. It is impossible to create a natural environment for them in a home because, even if a bird has never flown, it will still have the instinct to do so. Birds are social creatures, who feel lonely and bored very easily: a cage is not the ideal environment. If you enjoy bird watching, having a hobby like bird watching, or visiting animal shelters it might allow you to see birds in their natural environment.
- Keep cables (electrical, curtain, computer, etc.) away from bird cages. They are very curious animals and use their beaks to explore, so they will try to peck and bite anything they can reach. Cables can cause electric shocks if chewed, while other types of ribbons or cords can cause strangulation or amputations.
