This month is Adopt a Rescue Bird Month. With how many different types of birds, you will surely find one that might fit your lifestyle, experience, and time you have to commit to them. You should be considering the pet’s needs, such as:
- Life Expectancy
- Vocalization
- Size
- Socialization needs
- Friendliness
- Housing/Space Requirements
Once you find the best fit for your lifestyle, you can prepare your home for your bird's arrival. Here are some tips on setting up your home and things to consider if you are a first-time bird owner.
Housing
The cage size you need will greatly depend on the type, size, and number of birds housed in the cage. The cage should be in a well-ventilated area away from drafts and direct sunlight. You would also like a place close to your family but not too disruptive.
Make sure to add perches and ladders for the bird to rest on. Enriching toys will be essential in helping your bird stay mentally active and happier. You want to avoid toys with attachments that contain toxic metals/materials such as copper, silver, zinc, iron, wax coating, treatments, or dyes. Make sure that the toys are a safe size for your bird. If you have a larger parrot, make sure you are not purchasing toys made for smaller breeds like a parakeet/budgie. Mixing up the cage and toys often can help keep your bird from becoming bored with the toys/setup. You do not want to overcrowd the cage, either. You want to make sure your bird has space to move freely.
A safe area or a flight-safe room, indoor or sheltered outdoor aviaries, if the weather allows, can help the birds exercise and serve as enrichment. You want to ensure the windows are covered, have no ceiling fans, and are away from other pets.
Diet
Species have unique dietary needs, so it is important to research them before adopting your bird. Some bird-specific pelleted foods are formulated to provide the bird with the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they need. Seeds, fruits, and vegetables can be added as supplemental treats. Some fruits and vegetables should only be occasional treats.
Birds are messy eaters and can quickly get their water dirty. To ensure that their water is fresh, you should change it daily.
Grooming and Care
Most birds can take care of their own grooming through their daily habits, but you want to monitor them to ensure they do not need any additional help. You want to ensure that their nails and beaks do not get too long, which could interfere with their movement and food intake. Some birds require beak trims, but please consult with your vet if you have any questions since this can be a complicated process and should be done by a veterinarian.
Regular baths or showers are also crucial for your bird’s feathers, skin, and sinuses. Birds should be bathed at least once to twice a week as long as they are comfortable with the activity. They can have preferences between baths, misting, and showers. If you are interested in clipping wings, please discuss the best options for your bird with your veterinarian.
Socialization
With any new bird, you would like to make sure that you start slowly with your new bird. You can gain trust from your bird by feeding treats through the cage bars by hand and working your way up by starting to open the cage door. Slow and calm movements can help establish that relationship.
How often you should interact with your bird depends on each bird. Most birds are social creatures and consider their humans their “flock,” so it is important to include your bird in your activities throughout the day. Listen to your bird’s comfort level and watch its demeanor to ensure it has enough enrichment and socialization.
Sunlight
Birds need natural sunlight for several different health benefits. A minimum of 30 minutes—4 hours of direct sunlight per week can be adequate for vitamin D production, which also promotes vitamin A absorption. The more time, the better; it can also help with organ, skin, and feather health, hormone balance, and mental health. Providing a space where they can safely be in the sun will be key to their health.
Respiratory
Birds also have sensitive respiratory systems and must be kept away from harmful household items that might risk their health. Teflon pans (or any non-stick coating with Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)) release odorless, colorless particles that are toxic to pets when inhaled. Sudden death can, unfortunately, happen quickly after symptoms develop. Avoiding this type of cookware if you have a bird in your home is recommended.
Birds are also susceptible to any pollutants in the air. You should not use any cigarettes/cigars, vaporizers, scented candles, or any other items that can cause smoke. Scented things like air fresheners, hair products, fireplace fumes, cleaning products, etc., may also lead to respiratory problems for birds. Consider using an air filter to help filtrate any potential toxins for your birds.
Birds can be great, sometimes life-long, companions. If you consider adding a feathered friend to your family, please check out your local humane societies or rescues! Many birds are looking for a forever home or a second chance at happiness. And with so many coming in so many different sizes, colors, and species, do your research before to make sure it’s the right fit for you!