Feather Nest Before Bringing Bird Home
January is Adopt a Rescued Bird Month, so it's an ideal time to
consider adding a feathered companion to your home. But before you
bring that beautiful multi-colored macaw into your home, make sure
you can take proper care of it.
There's a lot more to having a bird than putting it in a cage,
providing food and water and cleaning up the mess.
First of all, be aware that you will have the bird for a long, long
time. Smaller species can live about 20 years, and some larger birds
can live to be 80. That means you may have the bird for the rest of
your life - and need to plan for its care after you're gone.
What you need to know
Feeding: Most experts recommend a diet of bird-food pellets,
supplemented by small amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes
and starches. Seeds, once a diet staple of pet birds, should be given
only as occasional treats. Different types of birds require different
diets, so read a book or two about the variety you plan to adopt.
Cage: Birds need room to flap their wings, and glide from perch to
perch. Make sure the cage is big enough to accommodate some movement.
Larger birds need daily sessions out of the cage to fly around the
house. Smaller birds need a cage large enough to fly within its
confines.
Toys: Birds are intelligent animals and need mental stimulation. Some
of the smarter species enjoy taking apart puzzle toys and untying
knots. Rotate the toys to keep them interested.
Company: Wild birds live in flocks, so it's a good idea to get a
second bird to keep the first bird company. And don't forget to set
aside time to play and interact with your bird. Both of you will come
to enjoy it.
Source: American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
By Elaine Rose
Note: Birds have wings so they can fly, just as you have legs so you
can walk and run. Imprisoning animals in cages is a serious matter,
no matter how large the cage. –
http://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/lifestyle/011804J18PETCARE.html
Posted on SHARE Yahoo group Jan 18, 2004