Online pet magazine.

Almost everything you need to know about pet care.

Birds

There are two classes of pet birds, companion and cage birds.

Companion birds are parrots, cockatiels, macaws, mynah and budgerigars etc. With lots of tender loving care, our feathered friends make great companions and some can even be taught to talk. Here you will learn about living with birds, from basic training to hidden household dangers.

Caged birds are finches and canaries. These birds are usually best suited to outside aviaries or flight cages, which are slightly larger than the average budgie cage.

Is a bird right for you?

Any pet is a big responsibility, so be sure that you’re prepared before you add a new member to your family. If you’re thinking about adding a companion bird to your household, here are a few questions that may help you decide.

Do you have the time and patience to work with a bird? A bird needs a minimum of 1/2 an hour of undivided attention a day, not including play time on their gym or T-Stand

Can you handle the mess? Most birds are messy and love to throw their food and water all over the floor.

Do you mind being a slave? Your time really does revolve around your feathered friend.

Can you provide adequate care for your bird? Have you researched the type of companion bird you're interested in? Do you know if it tends to be a screamer, feather picker, moody? Do you have an avian vet in your area? Not all vets treat birds.

Do you have the room for a large cage, playgyms, t-stands and anything else your feathered friend might want?

Will you take the time to chop up fruits and vegetables, and prepare interesting meals? Bare in mind that it might not even be eaten!