Birds
Caring for birds
Birds are very social animals and can make great pets. However, some birds – such as certain parrot species – can live for more than 50 years.
Different species’ require different levels of care, so you need to seek specialist advice about your pet bird’s needs. You should also be careful not to buy a wild-caught bird.
Habitat
Birds need space to exercise – which means an aviary big enough for them to fly in, which can be expensive to buy or build.
Birds like budgies and canaries live in groups in the wild, so it is kinder to keep more than one at a time. You should buy pairs, or groups of males or females, at the same time to avoid jealousy. However, you shouldn’t keep both budgies and canaries in the same cage as the smaller canaries may get bullied.
Your aviary should be designed specifically for the type of bird that you won, so you should seek specialist advice before buying it.
Birds also need clean water for bathing.
A stimulating environment
All captive birds need a space big enough to fly in, and a stimulating environment to keep them entertained.
Lots of perches, vegetation, toys and branches will help keep your birds happy. Boredom and stress can lead to feather plucking in unhappy birds.
Diet
A diet of bird-food, along with treats like lettuce, carrots and apple will keep budgies and canaries happy, though you should seek specific advice for your type of bird.
Birds also need a constant supply of fresh, clean water and some species need grit to aide digestion too.
Birds should have a cuttlefish bone to peck. This helps keep their beak trim.
Health
Different types of birds have different healthcare requirements, and you should get to know your birds, and the symptoms of any possible illnesses or infections that might affect your pets.
As well as a cuttlefish bone to keep your bird’s beak trim, you should also take steps to stop claws from becoming too long. This can be done by providing rough or bark-covered perches. However, if claws do need trimming, you should make sure that it is done by a trained professional.
Pet insurance can help keep the cost of vet’s bills down if your bird becomes ill or needs emergency treatment.
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