If you've decided you want to add a parrot to your family, you may be wondering how to ensure your feathered friend lives a happy and healthy life in your home. After all, they're not like a cat or dog - they need different, specialized care. To get you started, we've listed a few of the most important points you need to keep in mind for a content bird.
Keep reading for 12 simple steps to keep your parrot happy and healthy!
Step 1: A big home
Parrots need a cage that is large enough to allow them to move about, fully stretch their wings and comfortably play when you are not around.
The cage should have enough space to accommodate their food, toys, perches and treats too. Do get the biggest cage that you can possibly afford, one that will comfortably fit into your home.
Step 2: A wholesome diet
Parrots need a varied diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables on a daily basis are a must! Most parrots can't survive on a classic diet of seeds alone.
If you are not sure what is the right diet for your bird, ask your (Avian) vet or reputable pet store for advice on suitable food and supplements.
Step 3: Toys, toys, toys!
Parrots are extremely intelligent, inquisitive and nosy. In the wild they would be busy exploring, playing or just foraging for food.
Please provide a variety of interesting parrot toys, which you can then rotate on a weekly basis to keep the little brains, claws and beaks busy.
Step 4: The importance of flight
All parrots enjoy time out of their cages, flying around the house and exploring. Ensure that all windows are shut and that the house is parrot-proofed. Do not leave your bird unsupervised when out of the cage.
Please never clip the wings as this very often leads to psychological problems for the bird and a false sense of security for the owner.
Parrots that aren't allowed to fly on a regular basis can develop muscle atrophy and obesity.
Step 5: Parrot hygiene
In the wild, parrots like to bathe in order to keep their feathers in good condition. Some specie even use wet leaves to take a bath after a rainstorm!
In captivity, you can give your bird a spray twice per week with warm water or provide a large but shallow dish in which the bird can bathe.
Step 6: Training your bird
Understanding your parrots body language will ensure that you have a happy relationship with your bird. Train your feathered friend using positive reinforcement.
Training is a wonderful way to interact with your bird and teach it basic commands and tricks at the same time. Parrots do like to learn just as much as we humans do. Never punish your bird!
Step 7: The social aspect
We all need some company and if not all of the time, at least from time to time. Ideally, you would have another parrot but if this is not an option then some human company can be just as fulfilling to your bird.
Just remember: parrots do need a lot of attention and interaction on a daily basis is a must! A parrot is just like a bright child that never grows up.
Step 8: Consider an aviary
This is the ultimate luxury. If you have the space and can afford an indoor or sheltered and secure outdoor aviary, this will provide a superior quality of life for your bird with plenty of space to exercise their wings. Sheer birdy bliss!
Do make sure you do some research on how to build an aviary, or buy one pre-made. Not all materials are parrot-safe.
Step 9: Branches & perches
In the wild, parrots are very active and busy chewing all of the time. It is important to provide fresh bird-safe branches once or twice a week. This will keep the beak busy and should then keep your furniture safe.
Perches should also be natural, as straight plastic or dowel perches can damage a bird's feet in the long run. A little texture helps a lot!
Step 10: Harness training
If your feathered friend is comfortable and you are able to train it on a harness you will then be able to enjoy quality time outdoors without the worry of your bird escaping.
Always use a good quality harness, check regularly for damage and make sure that the harness is secured to you at all times when outside.
Step 11: Plan your holidays
Plan your holidays in advance. You will need someone to look after your bird whilst you are away. Make sure that you have someone reliable, who knows about birds and how to handle them. Most reputable bird boarding facilities will insist on a psittacosis test valid within the past year before they will board your bird.
You can check out Hotel Polly if you're still looking for a safe parrot hotel.
Step 12: Emergency planning
Register your bird with an avian vet as soon as it arrives at your home. You never know when you may need one. The vet does need to be an avian vet or your bird may not receive the proper care.
It is a good idea to take your bird once a year for a check – up.