Pet Bird/Parrot Advice
25
Birbs, borbs, cheepers, peepers, whatever you call them—like it or not, psittacines are taking the internet by storm. While the sudden interest in parrots as pets is working wonders on re-homing rescue birds, many bird beginners are unaware of the reasons these majestic creatures end up in homeless in the first place. My advice is geared towards those who are thinking of getting a bird of their own or adjusting to life with their new feathered friend.
As a bird owner for many years, I have lots of hands-on experience to complement the knowledge gained by many hours of poring through issues of BirdTalk magazine and parrot ownership and breeding books. Do you know what kinds of fruits and veggies are safest for your bird? How about the factors that should help you decide whether or not to keep your bird fully flighted, or how to tame your new feathered friend who isn't acting quite as cute and friendly as the Vines would suggest? What shapes and bar-widths of cages are safe for your bird and why?
My expertise is most applicable towards smaller, "beginner" birds, such as parakeets, parrotlets, lovebirds, and cockatiels. I can offer a crash course on Birds 101, or answer questions specific to your bird's health or behavior (although you should always look to a vet for serious issues first!). Happy birding, and I hope to help you and your feathered friend thrive.
Training & Qualifications
I am the owner of a pacific parrotlet named Nikki, and we have been best of friends for nearly a decade. You can find out more about how we came to be in each other's life in the July 2011 issue of BirdTalk magazine!