Basic Care
Getting ready for the new bird to come home? Here are a few "must haves".
The Cage
• Yes, size does matter. Get the largest cage that you can afford! Did you ever go to a pet
store and see an Amazon or Macaw in a cage so small they can't spread their wings? Birds need exercise both in and out of their cages. There also needs to be additional space for toys, dishes, perches and swings.
• Bar Spacing - The space between the bars should not be large enough that a bird can fit its head through.
• Cage Finish - Powder coated or stainless steel is recommended. Please do not use an older cage that has rusted.
• Location
- Don't place the cage in an isolated area of the house. Birds want to be where the activity is.
- Avoid the kitchen due to heat and fumes
- Avoid placing near air conditioners or heating vents
- Birds love to be near windows but be careful about drafts when the seasons change
Perches
• Choose the right size for your bird but buy a variety of shapes and surfaces (cement, wood and rope).
• Tree Branches make wonderful perches. Do not use any branches that have been treated
with chemicals/insecticides. Prior to use, clean all branches with nontoxic disinfectant. You can choose from some of the following:
- Apple
- Ash
- Apricot
- Dogwood
- Elm
- Magnolia
- Papaya
- Peach
- Pussy Willow
- Weeping Willow
Toys
• Keep thinking variety. Hanging toys and foot toys made out of wood, acrylic, leather, rawhide and rope are ideal. Change the toys out for the birds to keep them interested.
• Keep the cost down and make your own.
First Aid Kit
• Quick-Stop / Cornstarch / Styptic Powder (toenail/feather bleeding)
• Sharp Scissors
• Nail Clippers
• Small Syringes for prescribed oral medications.