If you still have not chosen your perfect pet bird, keep in mind that some birds only live a few years, while others can live nearly as long as we do!
This is an important factor to take into account especially if children are going to help keep and look after your feathered friend.
Buy spacious cage
Once you have chosen your pet bird, make sure the cage you buy is spacious, comfortable, and as interesting as possible, for your bird will spend its whole life in the aviary.
Cages can be rendered fun by adding toys to them, such as mirrors, ladders, perches, and other items you may find at the pet store.
A clean cage is of utmost importance for the well being of your pet birds. It must be kept clean every day and disinfected weekly.
Check and replenish the food bowl always
Your bird’s food bowl must also be replenished and checked regularly, for birds are animals of habit, and appreciate regular schedules. Empty out the seed husks and replace them with fresh food.
Get a drinking water bowl
A small bowl for drinking is also vital, as is one with shallow water, that will serve as a bath for your pet bird to groom in, an exercise they simply adore!
In fact, when your bird is sick you will notice that it is no longer taking its daily bath sessions. Therefore make a habit of checking your pet bird for signs of illness regularly, they are usually less chirpy, tend to keep to a corner, will not feed, and their feathers fluffed up.
Should you notice one or more of these signs do not hesitate to take your pet to the veterinarian.
Regular grooming is essential
Groom your pet birds regularly, including their nails and beaks, just think how much they use them! Take care that their claws are clipped if they are too long.
Your pet bird can sharpen its beak on a cuttlefish bone, a favorite pastime with these animals; this also provides the necessary calcium intake.
Keep your bird happy and healthy with these comforting daily proceedings, not to forget all the attention you can spare.
Consider the psychological aspect of birds
Another aspect to take into account is the psychological one. Birds are shy animals, they do not like strangers much, being animals of habit, so remember, keep them sheltered from too many unfamiliar faces, what they really want is lots of attention from you, for they can be very sociable animals.
You may actually train your pet bird to perch on your finger; it will take time and patience. Start by having it feed on your hands, groom its feathers gently and avoid sudden movements, this routine will build up its confidence.
A cage cover is vital as well
A cage cover is also important for it protects your bird from too much hustle and bustle and it is also a sign that its time to sleep! Remember that birds can be noisy as well as fun!
Find out the best food for your bird
Not all birds eat the same food; so find out what is best for your type of bird, directly at the pet store or in specialized books.
Most birds feed on both plants and meat and generally all stores sell prepared mixtures and feed pellets, which your bird may taste, you may even try to prepare a mixture yourself!
Birds also love fresh green vegetables, carrots, and fruit, which must be fed in small doses, as too much fresh food can provoke diarrhea.
As a general rule feed your feathered friend regularly, provide a balanced diet; do not concentrate on one food type, just as you would do for yourself.
