Caring for decorative birds
Raising decorative birds has been popular for thousands of years. Their beautiful feathers, songs, and ability to talk make birds ideal pets for many people. There is a wide variety of birds – from small finches to large macaws.
Before purchasing a bird, inquire about its individual characteristics, care requirements, special dietary needs, and health care to determine if the chosen species are suitable for you.
Although each species of bird has its own special needs, you can contribute to the development of a long and happy relationship with your pet by following a few simple tips.
CHOOSING A HEALTHY BIRD
A healthy bird is active, with clear eyes, clean, preened feathers, and is well-groomed. A bird that sits quietly, with ruffled feathers, hides its head under its wing or has droppings on its back likely has a health problem. Soon after purchasing, the new bird should be examined by a veterinarian. The examination should include blood and fecal tests, as many diseases do not have obvious clinical signs.
CAGE
Honestly, no cage is “big enough” in practice; the size of the cage depends on the type of bird. A cage that is too small can lead to injury to the wingtips damage (fraying) of the tail or wing feathers or to emotional stress for your bird. The cage should be constructed from materials suitable for the type of bird. Ready-made metal cages are a good choice. Avoid cages with sharp edges or protrusions that could pose a danger. If you want to make your DIY cage, keep in mind that parrots like to chew, so you must carefully choose the materials. Some wood preservatives, lead paints, or adhesives are toxic if ingested.
PERCHES
A good variety of perches will help prevent problems with the bird’s feet and legs. Choose perches with different diameters, including flat ones. Perches should be made of an easy-to-clean material.
If you use branches, they should be from non-toxic trees (such as acacia, mulberry, elderberry, birch, and oak; coniferous trees are not suitable) and should be thoroughly cleaned.
FOOD AND WATER DISHES
НIt’s best to clean the dishes daily to reduce bacterial contamination. They should have lids and be placed in a way that prevents them from becoming soiled with droppings.
CAGE LINING
The cage lining should be changed daily. It’s easier to place several sheets and remove the top one. If you use gravel or wood shavings, it’s better to choose a reliable manufacturer to reduce the risk of bacterial or fungal contamination.
