"Birdy Basics 101"

[birdscomefirst]

Hi,

I was just on another forum and I would like to say that I was surprised but of course I wasn't.

Someone was building a toy and was adding metal hardware. They were looking for Stainless steel so at least they were on the right track. When confronted with other choices, since Home Depot or Lowes didn't happen to have what was wanted in Stainless, Zinc and brass was offered.

Fortunately, the person didn't just grab what was available and mentioned the scenario on the forum. The point is that the person did not know at all that Zinc could be hazardous and in large enough concentrations, deadly to a bird.

It prompts me to post here, not there, the following concept.

From our group of folks, and from each person, I would like to see what you think should be on a Top Ten List of "Birdy Basics". Each person should list for me ten things that should be known before a person ever brings a bird home.

It can be things like the fact that PTFE (teflon) when overheated kills birds or Zinc and Lead are heavy metals and if ingested cause nervous disorders leading to death. etc.

It can be things such as those on my website where I point out that birds WILL make noise and they WILL make a mess.

I want to get your thoughts on what basic information should be out there before a person brings a bird home. It could even be things that you learned after you brought a bird home that you wished you had known first. Not that it would have changed your decision to have a bird or birds. It may just be something you thought would have been good to know.

"Birdy Basics 101"

My thoughts are to have it here and to post our information on my websites. I think it should also be on any of our own personal websites so that people can go to a few places to see what is going to be critical for them to know.

OK, Guys...Have At It!! Overlap is OK, that way I can see what people feel is most critical.

I'll go first:

1) Cage Size and Construction needs to be examined carefully for flaws in design and materials so a bird can't get hurt or be sickened by the metal composition.

2)Toys should be carefully examined for flaws in design. Bell clappers should be removed. Check for a toy being size appropriate for the bird.

3) Galvanized metals should not be used, they are coated with Zinc and can be the root of heavy metal poisoning in birds.

4) Heavy Metals, Lead and Zinc, for example are extremely toxic and if played with or ingested can be deadly. Do not let birds play with coins for example. Modern cents are copper plated to pure zinc. Do not let birds play with keys. many contain Zinc.

5) Overheated teflon (PTFE) is deadly, not might be deadly. Even Dupont recognizes this. The name of the syndrome in humans is Teflon Toxicosis.

6)Birds will make noise.

7) Birds will poop on everything including your fancy shirt, coat and antique oriental carpet.

8) When bringing a bird home from a pet shop or breeder, feed the bird exactly what it was getting at the pet shop or breeder's place. If the diet needs to be adapted , do it over a period of time , slowly and carefully after the bird has established itself in your home.

9) Keep other pets, especially mammals and larger birds away from your bird.

10) Don't open a door or window without knowing exactly where your bird is, preferably, in its cage.


I could do 100 but I want you guys to add to what I've started.

Thanks,
Bill

[bonnie]

1. A bird must have time out of the cage every day.
2. Most large birds chew. They do not know the difference between your antique table and their toys. And when they chew, it is your fault, not theirs.
3. Birds are loud.
4. Birds are messy.
5. Birds are not things to be bought just for show. They need interaction and companionship.
6. The bird cage needs to be the right size, do the research to find out exactly what size your bird needs.
7. You can NEVER physically punish your bird.
8. The bird needs a clean, sanitary environment without the use of harsh chemicals.
9. What will happen to your bird if your situation changes? If you have a baby? Have to move into an apartment?
10. Birds need proper toys to keep them occupied.

[FoxersArtist]

1) Parrots are time intensive animals and each bird is individually different than another and should be matched to any potential new family. In short, steer away from impulsive purchases.

2) Your bird WILL bite you at some point in it's life

3) A talking bird usually means a loud bird, though all birds can and likely will be loud at times, some louder than others.

4) Birds are messy and you should expect food, water, and poop to be flung, dropped, smeared, or tracked all over your birds cage as well as your house. If you aren't ok with more than average cleaning duties daily, don't get a bird.

5) It is important to buy a cage that is large enough for the bird to fully extend and flap his wings and should be made of high grade materials that do not contain lead or zinc. Sometimes it is true that you get what you pay for.

6) Having multiple toys is not only very important, but very expensive. Not all products sold for birds are safe.

7) Many things in the home can be toxic, especially metals & Teflon

8) Just because it doesn't stink, doesn't mean it can go without a bath. Bathe your bird at least weekly and make sure that your bird is properly groomed for his health and yours.

9) Other animals can harm or kill your bird, even if the bird is locked in it's cage

10) Birds are like children and need all of the love and care a small child would. This requires as much daily interaction as possible.

These are not in order...just what I could think up off the top of my head.
-Anna

[birdscomefirst]

This is great stuff! Thanks for jumping in on this so quickly....

PS: The order does not have to be anything specific and feel free to post multiple times as more comes to mind!

Bill

[Patty, Linus and Co.]

1. Have a safe cage that is roomy enough for you parrot to flap its wings and move about for exercise especially if it is occupying it for long periods of time.

2. Keep handy a list of foods and plants that are toxic for bird and when in doubt - don't. Also keep a first aid and evacuation kits nearby.

3. Feed your bird a varied healthy diet that is offered whether the bird eats it or not, eventually he'll get the message.

4. Have your cage and home outfitted with plenty of toys and play areas that are stimulating and safe. Remember the shreddables and plenty of wood for the big guys.

5. Fully bird proof your house. Make sure there are no electrical cords hanging loose and no chemical products within their reach to name just a couple.

6. Before you buy, make sure that you have the time to spend on person/parrot interaction and play that is more than just cuddle time.

7. If you are squeamish about poop, a bird is probably not for you.

8. A parrot is a parrot and will act like one (and should). They are loud and messy, willful and persistent, but never "bad". When your parrot chews the leg off of your Great-Great-Great Grandmothers heirloom hutch IT IS YOUR FAULT not your birds.

9. Know your species: macaws lunge, cockatoos won't stay perched, quakers steal your stuff. While they are all individuals, these traits are common and understanding this will not only help you to select the right bird for you but understand the bird you do select.

10. Remember that you are bringing a wild animal into your home. Birds are not domesticated. Enter the relationship feeling that you are entering the birds world not vice versa.

[FoxersArtist]

11) Do you have an avian cirtified vet in your area? I went to a vet for several years who could have killed my bird before realizing that birds needed special care.
-Anna

[birdscomefirst]

1) Buys some current books before you buy the bird :-)

[Uncle]

Toweling:

There will come a time in your bird's life that an emergency will arise and you will have to towel your bird for restraint.

If you wait until the emergency comes up (and it will) to get your bird comfortable with being toweled - you will have two problems on your hands... 1. the emergency at hand. 2. the fear and fright of being toweled.

So - whatever it takes... get ALL of your birds used to being toweled. You can start it out as a peek-a-boo game with gently draping a soft baby blanket over your bird and then easily lifting up and say "Peek-A-Boo". Make a game of it until your bird is comfortable with something cloth covering it. And then progress to a towel.

Here is a link that might be of some help... http://thetrueparrot.homestead.com/howtotowel.html

I got Baby used to a towel when we first got her at 4 months old. She never has had a problem with being toweled.

[Wanda and Flock]

1-Keeping a healthy, happy bird is also very expensive -proper diet, toys, cages, vet bills, play gyms, swings, safe cleaning supplies and more parental worry than I had with my human kids. Also, be prepared to C O O K, soak, chop, peel, dice and slice- every day!
2-In many cases, Don't believe the pet store owner, talk to a reputable breeder or re-home. Go visit sanctuaries, get a look at what you will be in for if you don't give them proper care and on occasion, even if you do!
3-Have a plan for them outliving you...where would they go?

[too&me]

1)Know that your bird may have a bad day or two & accept that. 2) Give that bird room to be a bird, not a feathered human, not a dog, not a cat. 3) Accept that you are a bird janitor, chef & a big toy, as well as a companion. 4) Challenge that bird to keep his/her mind active as well as his/her body exercised. 5) Always look for any changes in appetite & droppings, a bird can go down hill very quickly and you need to read all of the signposts. 6)Have a carrier or pillowcase & food supply readily available in case you have to leave fast due to fire, weather or other disaster. 7)Love that bird, this should be a lifetime commitment for you.

[birdie]

Are you sure you don’t want a top 25 list??

In no specific order, just what popped into mind…

get the largest cage you can afford, check for appropriate bar spacing.
Birds need more than just seed, fresh veggies and fruits are a must
There are toxins you need to be careful of; Teflon, chocolate, caffine, avacodos. Do a google search on toxins for parrots.
Parrots are smart & social, they are not meant to just be in a cage and come out when you have time, they need daily love and attention. In many ways they are like a 3 year old toddler.
You need to have an avian certified vet, not all vets have knowledge to treat parrots.
Parrot ownership is a lifestyle, they aren’t just a pet ~you are their flock.
If it’s in your house chances are, it will get chewed!
Birds are messy, loud, destructive, it’s in their nature. They WILL poop ~ they WILL scream ~ they WILL be messy ~ and they WILL chew your antiques. At some point they WILL bite you.

Birds need constant supervision
Toys are an important part of your birds daily routine, they need chewable & shredable toys. NOT ALL TOYS are bird safe.
Stainless steel is the best metal, DO NOT use lead, brass, zinc.
Ceiling fans should not be used around you bird.
Keep all electrical cords hidden from your bird.
The safest cleaner to use around your bird in a 50/50 --vinegar/water mix.
Keep a birdie 1st aide kit on hand
get an emergency evacuation plan and supplies prepared, your bird will need safe familiar food to eat.
Who will care for your bird if you need to be away?
Are you prepared for your pet to outlive you? The larger birds can live to 80 years.
DO NOT let your bird sleep with you, you could roll over on them .
newspaper for the bottom of the cage is the safest pan liner, and lets you easily moniter droppings.
The only way to tell if your bird is ill is to moniter their weight weekly and their droppings, if your bird “looks” sick it may already be too late.
Your bird needs a bath 1-2 times per week, do not use soap, water only.
use caution with open windows and doors so your bird doesn’t fly out.
Your bird would enjoy sunshine and fresh air with a bird safe harness or in the safety of a cage.


Ok, so I didn’t quite make 25, but I came close:smiles:

[too&me]

Turn off your ceiling fans when your bird is loose.

[birdscomefirst]

These are all fantastic! I'll probably wait until the weekend to try to make a master list of the things brought out in these posts! Keep 'em coming , if you have more.

Thanks for the great lists!

Bill

[bonnie]

Parrot ownership is a lifestyle, they aren’t just a pet ~you are their flock.


I just LOVE this one!

[EasySpirit]

Birds are a prey animal and not like a cat or dog (predatory animal) thus their behaviors will be different.

Read, Read, Read. There are a number of magazines and books about birds that will help you learn "why does my bird do that" or what they should eat and how do I get them to behave and more. Many books will list internet sites where you can go for further information.

Birds need to learn acceptable behavior like dogs. Instead of sit and stay a dog is taught, a bird learns step up and step down.

Birds respond poorly to punishment many times having worse behavior. Learn about positive animal training as it makes for a good relationship with our bird.

Have your avian certified vet lined up. They can be a great help as you start out with your new bird.

Decide if your birds wings should be clipped or not. There are reasons for both choices. See which works best for you and your family.

Birds can fly away whether flighted or wings clipped. If you might be taking them somewhere harness train your bird for their safety and your peace of mind.

Birds are messy. There are practices that can help manage the mess.


There are a lot of good ideas everyone has mentioned.

me :hihihi:

[Larry, Baby and Me]

I don't know if this has been listed or not...

Do not try to self medicate your birds.

Do not add anything to their water - except water.

Do not add anything to their food - except food.

Of course if it is medication prescribed by an "avian" vet - then do so.

[ashbelle21]

Can someone please post in regards to "scents" in the house? I've seen a lot of conflicting information on scented candles and the like. I would like to get a B&G macaw once i'm settled in my house within the next year and I love my candles!

I know other people who have birds and have candles and other scented "stuff" and they have birds and they seem OK? but from everything I've read, it's a big no no.

[birdie]

for a time the birds may seem fine, but it has ill effects on their lungs, creates breathing problems and just isn't good for them. I'm sure someone else will be along with a more technical aproach...

[Julie]

It will be interesting to get a technical answer to this. I thought that a "bee's wax candle" was an ok alternative, but do not recall where I read/heard this.

I do know that febreeze is a big no no, as well as aresol air freshners, and those plug in thingies...

[Larry, Baby and Me]

Can someone please post in regards to "scents" in the house? I've seen a lot of conflicting information on scented candles and the like. I would like to get a B&G macaw once i'm settled in my house within the next year and I love my candles!

I know other people who have birds and have candles and other scented "stuff" and they have birds and they seem OK? but from everything I've read, it's a big no no.

Hi Ash,

Excellent question. It is always good for us to have a reminder about such dangers in the home.

I don't know what kind of conflicting information you are talking about. I have not seen any information any where that says scented candles or air fresheners are okay to have around a bird. Those other people you are talking about are putting their birds at risk.

Do a Google on "scented candles parrot". Also try a Google on "air fresheners parrot".

Here's the deal... the stuff that makes the scent in candles and air fresheners is not natural but chemical. Just read the ingredients on an air freshener package. You won't be able to pronounce the words - because thay are man-made chemicals.

I also recommend you do a Google on "bird respiratory system".

Here's one link that might help... http://people.eku.edu/ritchisong/RITCHISO//birdrespiration.html

We all have to educate ourselves about the ways birds are different from mamals. In your research you will find that birds do not have a diaphram like mamals. Their lungs do not expand or contract like ours do. They have air sacs that pump air into and force air out of their lungs. Their lungs can best be described as a rigid canister with attached bellows. So - their physical makeup is in part what makes them suseptable to air-borne chemicals where these same chemicals will not harm a mamal such as a human or dog.

So - don't take any one person's word for anything. Become an avian advocate and do your own investigations. And - most importantly... when in doubt - don't.

It looks like you are going to have to put your love for your bird over your love for candels... sorry about that.

Good luck with your B&G.

Lar

[Anne-Samantha's Mom]

i only have one...LOVE LOVE LOVE YOUR BIRD...your bird is not a disposable item like a piece of towel..a bird is a lifetime commitment..in fact our Sam is not a bird..she is our child..

[ashbelle21]

Hi Ash,

Excellent question. It is always good for us to have a reminder about such dangers in the home.

I don't know what kind of conflicting information you are talking about. I have not seen any information any where that says scented candles or air fresheners are okay to have around a bird. Those other people you are talking about are putting their birds at risk.


So - don't take any one person's word for anything. Become an avian advocate and do your own investigations. And - most importantly... when in doubt - don't.


Lar

I've been researching for at least a year and everything that i've read says no but what i've seen people do is what contradicts what I read. I've printed out numerous online articles, purchased books, read forums, etc etc. I probably sound stupid for saying "the book says no but these people say it's OK" but that's the reason I'm asking the questions. I want to know everything possible *before* I make a commitment than to do it on impulse then say to msyelf, oh dear Lord what did I get myself into. You know? I want to educate myself as much as humanly possibly or until my brain can't handle anymore lol

We're not the type of people to make impulse purchases anyway, especially when it comes to bringing in another "family member" so if/when we do it, we want to make sure we're doing it right 110% If we decide it's not right for us, then of course we would be responsible and just say no.

Thank you for your reply and the additional information, much appreciated

-ashlee

[Larry, Baby and Me]

I've been researching for at least a year and everything that i've read says no but what i've seen people do is what contradicts what I read. I've printed out numerous online articles, purchased books, read forums, etc etc. I probably sound stupid for saying "the book says no but these people say it's OK" but that's the reason I'm asking the questions. I want to know everything possible *before* I make a commitment than to do it on impulse then say to msyelf, oh dear Lord what did I get myself into. You know? I want to educate myself as much as humanly possibly or until my brain can't handle anymore lol

We're not the type of people to make impulse purchases anyway, especially when it comes to bringing in another "family member" so if/when we do it, we want to make sure we're doing it right 110% If we decide it's not right for us, then of course we would be responsible and just say no.

Thank you for your reply and the additional information, much appreciated

-ashlee

Ashlee - please stick around here on Happy Birdy... you are in good company... and by what you say - you fit right in with the rest of us.

None of us know "exactly" the right things to do for our birds. They are wild, exotic, and mysterious. There is more that is not known about companion parrots than is known. We do our best to provide them with the best care possible and sometimes it is not enough. Many of us have years of experience and have done extensive research - but we are just touching the tip of the ice berg... there is so much more to learn, and we strive daily to learn all we can. So - you are in good company.

Will air fresheners or scented candles kill a bird??? I "personally" do not know of any bird that has been harmed by them. But I have read many books and read many posts on boards that say - Yes. Could it be that this is an Urban legend that started somewhere and now has become a false fact? I truly don't know... but I will never take that chance. Could it be that the people you know that use air fresheners and scented candles have been lucky that their birds have not taken in a strong wiff of the air borne chemicals and their birds are still alive out of sheer luck? Like I said earlier.... When in doubt - don't.

On another note - You said you will be getting a Blue and Gold. You will run across many people who will tell you those large birds are only for "experienced" bird owners. They will suggest you start out with a smaller bird to get some experience before you plunge into the large, more difficult birds. I don't agree with that. Many years ago I had an Amazon and a Quaker, now I have an Umbrella Cockatoo. Did my experience with the smaller birds prepare me for taking care of my Umbie??? The answer is a resounding - NO. Having and caring for the smaller birds only gave me experience in taking care of smaller birds. Each species is different and each bird within a species is unique and require their own way of handling them.

If you do your research and find out as much as you can before you bring your love into your life - you will do fine. I suggest you stick around us nutz and ask your questions. We will do our best to share with you our expereinces, knowledge, and trials and tribulations of being bird owners. I strongly suggest you get the book "The Parrot Problem Solver" long before you get your B&G. Read it from cover to cover and then use it as a reference book once you get your bird. It will help you over the many rough spots that will surely come your way. And please stay with us here on Happy Birdy... we are a family of bird owners and we invite you to join us.

Larry

[ashbelle21]

On another note - You said you will be getting a Blue and Gold. You will run across many people who will tell you those large birds are only for "experienced" bird owners. They will suggest you start out with a smaller bird to get some experience before you plunge into the large, more difficult birds. I don't agree with that. Many years ago I had an Amazon and a Quaker, now I have an Umbrella Cockatoo. Did my experience with the smaller birds prepare me for taking care of my Umbie??? The answer is a resounding - NO. Having and caring for the smaller birds only gave me experience in taking care of smaller birds. Each species is different and each bird within a species is unique and require their own way of handling them.

Quite interesting that you said that b/c I read that as well and I can understand where they are coming from but then again, I was also thinking along the same lines you just mentioned.

I guess this sort of can related to dogs ... my parents have small dogs, I have a "big" dog. Small dogs and "big" dogs don't behave the same way, small dogs tend to be a little bit more like ... they have something to prove. If I really want a Great Dane, why would I go out and get a tea cup poodle? Not to mention the fact the vast differences between say.... terriers to hounds and within hounds you have scent hounds and sight hounds. If you got a bloodhound but wanted a greyhound in the end ohhhhhh boy LOL very different. The care can be generalized to an extent but each breed/size/species etc etc are all different and you need to go beyond the generalization and get down to the specifics.

What happens if I get a small bird and I end up not being able to stand it? I've ended up with a bird that I don't like and I'll have to find a home for and i DO NOT want to be in that position. However, it doesn't mean it would've been the same if I would've just done my research and gotten the B&G. Does that make sense?

With any animal I believe you have to have respect regardless of how comfortable you are with them...I've been riding/showing horses for the last 18yrs and believe me, 1200lbs has to be respected or else it can mean your life in some instances.

Same goes for the birdies ... well .. i think so anyway:rolleyes:

[too&me]

You sound quite thoughtful and I believe you would make a caring bird "owner" what ever you decide. It often seems that the bird is best at doing the choosing-it is like those little alien feathered minds can read something inside you that tells them you are the one.

[ashbelle21]

You sound quite thoughtful and I believe you would make a caring bird "owner" what ever you decide. It often seems that the bird is best at doing the choosing-it is like those little alien feathered minds can read something inside you that tells them you are the one.

aw thank you :) i am certainly trying to be! it's funny you say that b/c that's how I picked my dog, or rather, how he picked me. I visited the breeder several times and I had 3rd litter pick. I went to her house and sat outside with the puppies on the lawn, they all ran around, finally Kade came over and just sat there with me. When I went to pick him up (at 8wks) the other puppies were again playing in the yard and he sat at the porch steps (while I was finishing up with the breeder) as if to say, hi mom is it time to go now? It was love :)

animals can be quite uncanny, it's amazing

[iti hoa's mom]

http://qp-society.com/qpserc/candles.html

Here is another link you might check out about bird lungs and candles.

[Chrissy and Flock]

Ashlee letting them pick you makes so much sense... when you find the bird that is meant for you you will know it...

[Larry, Baby and Me]

Peggy, I love the link you gave. I am not the only one who says, "When in doubt - don't."

That website said the same thing... "Common sense is the best approach: if in doubt about an item or product, don't use it around your bird. "

Lar

[ashbelle21]

http://qp-society.com/qpserc/candles.html

Here is another link you might check out about bird lungs and candles.

love the link, thank you!:D

[ashbelle21]

fyi ... in regards to chemicals and scents ...check out the post I made under the people thread "animal rights"

[MoluccanZoey]

1. Just because you like a type of bird- doesn't mean that type of bird is right for you. Even though a macaw may be beautiful, it doesn't mean you have to own one! And though you may want a cockatoo, your personality may not be the right fit for one. Do your research!
2. Be prepared to spend alot of money. Cage. Food. (Pellets, Seed/Nuts, Fresh Food), TOYS!!, Vet Bills (can you say "emergency visit?" How about "expensive blood work?"). Be prepared to call a behaviorist at least once in your life as well (or go on a really good forum ;)- to work through those birdie issues.
3. You will be bitten. How hard generally depends on how big the parrot is. Get used to the idea now.
4. Your parrot will be loud. How loud generally depends on how big the parrot is. Get used to the idea now.
5. Your parrot will be messy. Get used to the idea now.
6. It is your job to be "the bigger person". The parrot will bite you- you don't get to hit the parrot. The parrot will scream- you don't get to scream back. The parrot will make a mess- you get to clean it up. This is all a part of parrot ownership.
7. The parrot depends on you for its basic needs (food, water, care) and for its emotional needs (love and attention)- don't deprive it of either.
8. If you are lucky enough to have your life touched by a parrot- you will gladly do all of the above.

[too&me]

Great list you put together Zoey's Mom.

[ashbelle21]

what do you guys clean your houses with if you can't use pretty much 99.9% of cleaning stuff on the shelves ?

[too&me]

Vinegar and baking soda are my two choices along with a detergent for dishes (baking soda is a good dish scrub too) and the occasional sticky spill.

[Kachina]

Steam cleaners are a wonderful thing, and can be used to clean up virtually anything. I use mine from cleaning cages to cleaning the kitchen, works great.

[Chrissy and Flock]

What kind of steam cleaner do you have that will clean cages... I really would be interested in that. plz post a pic if you have one...