How to care for a parrot his parrot care guide offers you lots of useful information on how to care for your parrot.
Your Parrot’s cage
When buying a parrot cage think big. The size of your parrot’s cage is important so provide as large a cage as you can. Don’t let considerations of cost sway your decision as to size.Look on eBay or parrot forums where secondhand cages are offered.Parrots (apart from budgerigars and cockatiels) are still only a generation or two away from their wild cousins. Their wild instincts are only superficially hidden by a veneer of civilisation so the more space you provide the better.It is quite common for the smaller birds to have cages that are too small.According to DEFRA guidelines a bird must be able to open both wings fully. I’d say buy a big cage – even for a cockatiel. She will look handsomer in a large cage and if later on you acquire an African Grey, the cage will be waiting.
Parrot perches
A variety of perches are required for all parrots. Some poorly designed cages may have plastic perches. Throw them away. They are not good for the birds’ claws and feet.The DIY shop sells dowels and broom handles which make excellent perches. Check that the diameter suits your birds’ feet and place different sizes in the cage.The trees in your garden will freely offer you natural branches which you can cut down – parrots actually prefer these. If you worry there may be some mould or insects on the branch, wash with a weak antiseptic solution, dry and use.
Keeping the parrot cage clean
The cage floor needs covering. We avid newspaper readers so that problem is solve brown paper looks nicer though.Many well-designed cages have a skirt that takes the spilt food. I notice that the pet shops are advertising non-spill food containers. If buying from new, they’d be worth trying.Plastic food dishes are ghastly for parrots. They stain easily and get chew. Investing in stainless steel works out cheaper in the end. Ceramic bowls also look nice, if you are sure that you have not got a pot flinger.Parrots in my opinion are the messiest pets to keep and I have known pet pigs and kept pet goats. Parrots win claws down ‘Messiest Pet in the World’ competition.As long as you change the cage floor covering, renew the water and wash the food bowls, the schedule can be flexible.
Where should I put my parrot’s cage?
The sitting room or kitchen (with reservations) are the best places for the cage. Make sure the cage is not in a draught from doors or windows and not in direct sunshine. Furthermore, don’t put them in an isolated corner as they are sociable animals.Think of parrots in the rain forest perching on swaying branches in dappled shade. Parrots can accept low room temperatures but draughts can affect their health.Parrots have evolved to live in a flock so situating the cage where the bird sees nothing most of the day is unkind.
Can I keep my parrot in the kitchen?
Yes, you can. Keeping your bird in the kitchen can be great for companionship for you both but bear in mind that it holds some dangers.For example, Teflon fumes are toxic for parrots. Conscientious carers will never use non-stick pans, burn scented candles or use strong cleaning products.I have taught my birds not to land on the glass hob, although they are often at liberty in the kitchen.
Can I cover my parrots cage?
Yes you can, provided it does not appear to be causing your bird distress. Many bird keepers use cage covers to regulate sleep patterns or provide protection from draughts.Some owners who keep the bird cage in the living room. But who also stay up late may take the bird to a sleep cage in a quiet location and bring it back next morning. As an alternative to using a cover.Personally, I don’t like covers. I worry that they cut off the flow of air and I do not think that they are necessary.
One bird or two?
It depends on the the birds’ breed. Cockatiels, lovebirds and parrotlets will thrive better with a partner.The larger parrots like African Grey’s or Amazons can do well as sole birds. Provide that the owner acknowledge their need for company and makes sure the do not spend long. Lonely hours alone.If your pair of birds came together from a pet shop or breeders.The will share a cage provide that it is large enough.Introducing two mature parrots needs to be handle carefully.