4 Reasons Why You Should Adopt Your Next Parrot

Most folks have the misgiven understanding that adopting a parrot means trouble. The general consensus is that if a parrot is up for adoption in the first place, it must be problematic. Naturally, like in every species of animals (including us humans), there are problematic parrots. However, it would be immensely naive to think that this is the primary reason people abandon parrots.

FACT #1 - Parrots have a very long life span.

In fact, some would argue that they're on the verge of discovering the secret to immortality. The small ones live for up to 20-30 years. Larger ones can go on to a ripe old age of 60-90 years. Just imagine: If the scheming investment bankers of Merril Lynch knew this, they'd probably convince the birds to buy a dozen retirement homes.

My point is because of their lifespan, they tend to outlive their owners. As a result, many parrots at the rescue centers are only there because their previous owners are no longer in this world. Not because they're particularly ferocious.

FACT #2 - It's not the parrots fault.

I think it's safe to say that humans are the primary cause for most of the bird's problems. Here's why. Mr. New Fish suddenly decides he likes parrots. He thinks that they're gorgeous because of their amazing blend of colors. Also, he reckons that within a few days, he'll have his parrot on his shoulder, squawking instructions to imaginary pirates in his living room.

So he buys one, purely on impulse. He does little to no research beforehand, and just dives in head first. So what happens? The parrot takes one look at Mr. New Fish and realizes that he's nothing but a nutcase. The problem is, the parrot can't actually tell Mr. New Fish this, because well... most parrots don't speak English all that well now do they? Although that's debatable, considering the insults certain parrots have hurled in my general direction.

The parrot makes a mess, because it doesn't know better. The parrot sometimes shows signs of aggression because Mr. New Fish thinks that it's OK to poke it all over. What's next? Mr. New Fish, thinking his parrot is the one with the issues, ignores it. He gives it no attention, no affection and puts no effort in caring for it. Next thing you know, the parrot, along with the cage, is chucked in the deepest, darkest corner of the garage.

So yes, the parrot will naturally go rather bonkers after this ordeal. But is it really at fault? Eventually, the parrot is rescued by a center.

FACT #3 - Living arrangements change

When people get married, have babies, or just have a new set of priorities in life, often times companion animals end up forced into the backseat. This has been the case with numerous parrots. Hence, they end up getting sent to a rescue center.

FACT #4 - Some people are profit motivated.

Pet stores and breeders have realized that parrots are flat out popular. So what do many of them do? They breed them like there's no tomorrow. They sell them without matching up the right people to their bird. The end result? Too many parrots for potential owners to handle, especially in certain countries like the United States. So the parrots get treated like commodities, and a large number of these parrots end up in shelters.

A disturbingly sad ordeal isn't it? I know.

Now, don't get me wrong. There are many terrific breeders and even pet stores that I can freely recommend with a good conscience. But just like everything, there's plenty of not-so-great groups as well.

Naturally, the best way to minimize this problem is to educate potential owners. All they really have to do is read extensively on parrot care, and do their part to spread the word (in fact, you might want to let people you know read this article). However, today I'm going to focus on what you can do to help right now. If you are looking into buying a parrot, you should seriously consider taking part in the parrot rehoming process.

Here's a fact for you. Because of the explosive parrot breeding, rescue centers are flooded. A large number are filled to the brim, and even more are overflowing. Unfortunately, this results in a very nasty irony. Rescue centers can no longer give the parrots the necessary attention and care. They just can't. They are cash strapped organizations that are stretching their resources to the breaking point. As such, some rescue homes are no longer able to serve their purpose. Naturally, they're becoming just another vortex for these unlucky birds.

If you're really interested in owning a parrot, let me take this opportunity of sharing a few perks of adopting one.

REASON #1

Buying a large parrot (African Greys, Amazons, Cockatoos) from a pet store in the United States can cost anywhere between $3000 and $5000. Macaws are known to cost even more than this. It's a lot of hard earned cash isn't it? Guess what? Adopting a large parrot, like a Grey, would probably amount to no more than a few hundred dollars.

REASON #2

The common misunderstanding is that parrots will only bond with you if you're the one who has been taking care of it since its adolescence. This is flat out wrong. In the wild (and your parrot is no different from a wild one), parrots may bond with several different partners in their lifetime, well into their maturity. Most parrots that are up for adoption are already somewhat mature. And if you take up a mature bird that came from a relatively good family, the main issue you're going to have is helping the parrot get used to you. Because when a parrot gets attached to someone, they mean it.

REASON #3

Naturally, adopting a bird would be a huge help to the rescue organizations. They are in desperate need of help from people like you. And if you're able to provide a good home for a parrot, they'll be eternally thankful.

REASON #4

Rescue centers are fundamentally sanctuaries. Many are equipped with the means to rehabilitate birds. And on top of this, they're not profit motivated. You're less likely to be scammed by a rescue home as opposed to a pet store.

Naturally, the story has a flipside as well.

1) Some parrots are bound to have been overly neglected or even abused. As such, they may already be undergoing a great deal of mental trauma. And it can be quite scary. These parrots have an extra aggressive nature. They usually don't hesitate to bite the hand that feeds. Some even go on self-mutilating rampages. And if you're lucky, you'll see one that does nothing but scream it's lungs out. Don't forget though: Adoption is fantastic, but it's not an obligation. You don't have to adopt a bird that is in an extreme condition already. Go for one that would be easier to work with.

However, if you have some parrot keeping experience under your belt, taking on a parrot with existing behavior problems and guiding him to become a friendly, social bird is immensely rewarding to both you and your bird. These birds were often the most abused and deserve a life where they are cared for and thrive.

2) Parrots are sociable animals. That said don't be surprised if they come with their own package of trust issues. You may get a little flustered if the parrot you adopt simply refuses to acknowledge your existence. However, don't forget: Just like people, parrots value trust a lot. They need you to give them a reason to trust you. But once you do, the bond may as well be forged by a goldsmith.

When all is said and done, parrots are truly remarkable creatures. They're very intelligent and you can easily learn a lot about yourself around them. If you're keen on getting one for yourself, seriously consider adopting one. However, just with every important purchase, remember to do your share of research. This way, you will save both yourself, and your parrot a wealth of trouble.

Live with Passion, Purpose and Parrots,

Clara

Getting A Pet Bird? 7 Things To Consider Before You Make Your Decision

If you've decided on a bird for a pet, choosing the right one the first time is the best thing that can happen for you and the bird. Here are 7 important things to think about before you bring your feathered friend home.

Life Span---Some parrots have a life expectancy of 70! This is a huge factor when adopting. Your age and general health should be factored into this decision. If you are older, adopting a pet that is expected to have a shorter life expectancy would help insure that you would always be there to take care of it. In matters of the heart, we don't always get to choose who or what we love do we?

Clean Up---All pets are going to create the need for extra cleaning. However, there are some species of birds (powder down) that create a white dust that is a natural part of their growth and development.

Needless to save, this can become overwhelming in terms of trying to literally keep the dust and dander down. These birds include the African Grey, Cockatoo, and Cockatiel. As gorgeous as these birds are, if you want low maintenance, look elsewhere.

Size---Size does matter because it is direct proportion to how much space your pet will need to stay physically and emotionally healthy. The bigger the bird, the larger the cage needs to be.

The ideal cage should allow enough space for it to fly inside both vertically and laterally without damaging its wings. If living space is limited choosing small rather than large is a better choice. If space is not an issue a large bird or two may work for you.

Personality---This is such an important factor to consider before you bring your pet home. Observing and interacting with it at different times during the day will give you a pretty accurate idea of what to expect.

Even though personality traits are generalized by species, each one is different. Taking time to get to know individual traits will make for a happier match and hopefully save the heartbreak of finding out that you are unable to live with issues that were not apparent before you brought it home.

Life Style---Here's where doing a little research about the type of bird you're considering will pay big dividends. If you have plenty to spend then choosing a bird that needs a lot of attention from its human is a great match.

If, however, you travel a lot or work long hours and lack the time and energy necessary to satisfy a more social bird, maybe fish are a better choice, or a pair of birds that can entertain themselves. This is a crucial piece of information to know before you finalize your decision.

Noise Level---Find out what kinds of sounds your avian friend makes, and consider your living conditions. If you live in an apartment, condo, townhouse where walls adjoin, loud and/or continuous shrieks can cause everybody to become unhappy.

Most importantly, remember that regardless of what the general description is of the variety you are looking at, each pet is an individual and you should do everything you can to get to know what that means for the bird you are considering.

Social Graces---As with people, some pets are more able to get along with people, small children, and other pets. Consider who is going to live with you and this pet and do a little homework about what to expect. If the research shows that a particular type of bird is not good with family members that you know it is going to be exposed to, better to know up front than after you have made your decision.

Your Beloved African Grey

African Greys are one the most wanted parrot species as a pet. It is due to a simple fact that they talk and are extremely intelligent. Most people want a parrot that talks, which is a misconception because not all African Greys talk.

Most times the end result leads the person to give up the parrot because of the responsibility an African Grey can be. There is a lot of responsibility with owning one of these special species.

They are known to be one of the smartest animals; yes I said animals, like chimpanzees, dolphins and even a human toddler. Not that a human toddler is an animal but they are correlated with a child. Their production of human speech is amazing. They talk in the third person, like a human.

Sparky, our three year old Grey, will answer a question when one is asked or respond when my wife and I are talking. I was asking my wife a question and she had not responded and Sparky replied "What?" just as she would say "What?" I can go on the many things Sparky says, responds and finishes off in a sentence, which even surprises me.

A notable African Grey N'kisi, a Timneh a African Grey, who in 2004 was said to a have a vocabulary of 950 words. When Jane Goodall came to visit him in New York he greeted her with "Got a chimp" He knew Jane Goddall from watching TV and seeing her in pictures with chimpanzees in Africa.

There is also Alex the famous African Grey, which was a Congo, that Dr. Irene Pepperberg worked with in a scientific setting. He had the ability to associate simple words with meanings and intelligently apply abstract concepts of shape, number, size, color, and zero-sense. The day before he died Alex's last words to Dr. Pepperberg was "You be good. I love you." May Alex rest in peace. Yes these two notable Greys displayed an outstanding sense of intelligence for an animal.

Please keep in mind that not all Greys talk or show such intelligence. This should not be reason to get this type of parrot. Greys require a lot of love, attention, stimulation and responsibility. Due to the intelligence you need to keep them stimulated, occupied and showered in love. Yes all parrots require this, but Greys seem to need more of the stimulation and being occupied than other parrots.

Misconceptions of an African Grey

Misconceptions of Greys are arguable. Many people say an African Grey is neurotic and one person birds. Some say they scream, pluck their feathers, are high strung, nervous and they bite. This depends on your household and how you raise your Grey.

Greys need to be socialized. This is a very important factor to know when you get it from the bird store or the breeder. Having a socialized baby Grey will build its confidence and disposition. When you bring it home have everybody and I mean everybody interact with it. Like any parrot don't let it be favored by one individual person, everybody in the household needs to interact with the baby.

Some people agree and disagree to let a baby Grey keep their flight feathers for a month or two when bringing it home. Some critics say that Greys are awkward and clumsy and will hurt themselves. Others believe it helps them build self-confidence and security. With the latter we decided to let Sparky keep his flight feathers when he came home, yes he flew from the cage across the room to the couch but he never hurt himself. However, after a short period of time he soon began to copy our Amazon and would run around on the floor, chasing him and this continues to this day. We felt he was ready to have his wings clipped and with end result being a positive one. Severe wing trims when a Grey is a baby can lead to insecurity and no self-confidence. It can lead to further insecurities and fears as they grow up.

Sparky is probably one of the most confident little guys I know and has no fear of anything. You can bring a new toy and he is at it with a vengeance, new food is a great treat to him and digs in and new situations are a little weird at first to him but he settles right in after a couple of hours. We have moved two times in his short threes of being with us and we have had none of the preconceptions of a Grey and have gone on two vacations, which one was for ten days. He had a blast at the babysitters, not as much fun as home but he was fine when he came back home.

Neurotic Behaviors

Neurotic type behaviors are formed when they are stressed, have insecurities and a lack of self-confidence. African greys are hardwired for to flee from danger and we are expecting them to understand all the strange things about its environment we have put them in. They do not have their flock to protect them. African Greys live in large flocks that forage on the ground together. They go from their roost and find food on the ground and trees. Keep in mind that baby Greys remain in their family unit much longer to develop emotionally then when they are being hand-fed. They are still wild animals and still have that sense in built in them. Parrots have not been domesticated over a long period of time. Many parrots that are domesticated are one or two generations in. Greys must be entertained and kept busy or they become stressed and will show self-destructive behavior.

One Person Birds

Many people will say that an African Grey is a one person bird. In our home this is not true. Sparky loves my wife and me. He may favor my wife more but she is mommy of the house and that happens in most human households, until they realize mommy lays down the rules. This is a complete fallacy that African Greys are one person parrots. They will interact with anybody that interacts with them. They interact with you as a toddler would interact with a parent. Your African Grey is very rewarding and the reciprocation of love is never ending.

Diet

In my opinion there isn't anything a Grey won't eat when introduced. Sparky eats seed, pellets, fruits, veggies and yes our food. He loves bones may it be chicken or the bones from our steak. You need to take into consideration their calcium levels. Talk to your avian specialist as it is more complex than just feeding your Grey calcium enriched foods. They will recommend a wide variety of foods, a calcium/phosphorus supplement and/or pellets. It is imperative you speak with the doctor about it and not take it upon yourself.

Toys and Cage

These are the two most important things you have to think about when you have an African Grey. The cage needs to be the biggest you can afford. At minimum the cage needs to be 32 inches by 23 inches. Toys, toys, toys and more toys; you can never have enough toys for Greys. Change them out weekly. This is great for stimulation and keeping their busy minds occupied. Play music or put on the TV for them when you are out of the house, though I do warn you to be careful on the TV shows they choose. They may pick up something you don't want repeated. I like to put on cartoons. They are family friendly.

Speech

Does an African Grey mimic? Some say yes and some say no. I am one of those disagrees and would say no. Sparky can put sentences together from hearing my wife and I speak to each other. They can copy human voices; appliance sounds and put speech together with speaking in the 3rd person. In the wild Greys would mimic other bird calls and chainsaws. In our home it is almost like a practical joke with his telephone ringing sound or if the phone rings he answers it and starts to have a conversation.

When your African screams as if they are dyeing when playing with a toy or swinging from a perch wildly you know you have a happy parrot. People wonder why Greys scratch at the bottom of their cage, there is no explanation. Sparky even scratches in the corner of the couch. I don't know if he is trying to dig a hole to china like any five year old or if he is searching for something, it is just unexplainable. Some people believe it is a sign that they want out of their cage contrary to belief they do it when they are out of the cage.

Subspecies

There are two Subspecies of the African Grey. There is the Congo that is larger, lighter gray, red tail and black beak. Then there is the Timneh who is smaller in size, dark charcoal grey, maroon tail and horn-colored upper mandible. Of course you have heard of the Cameroon, the ever elusive Cameroon. There is no such thing; it is just a way of getting you to pay more money. It is also called the Silveback or even the Ghana. It has not been scientifically proven of these other two subspecies. There are only subspecies and they are the Congo and Timneh African Grey. When we got Sparky we fell into the Cameroon trap but my wife would not pay the price they were asking. Some Congo's just happen to be larger than others.

African Greys are one of the most delightful animals one can come across and become companions with. The gratification you get will only grow as each day passes. There is so much to learn from these great creatures. They love to learn and we can show them how by being patient and understanding their needs. Your new addition is a five year old with the emotional needs of a two year old, only it is feathered. I love Sparky to the end and you will too, with your Grey.

3 Signs of a Sick Bird

It can be pretty frustrating to deal with a pet being sick. The thing, your pet is of the winged variety. Birds are rather fragile creatures, and they would need a whole lot of attention paid to them in order to make sure that they're well taken care of.

The last thing you want to deal with is a sick pet, which is why you need to be aware of the signs or symptoms that can help you determine if they really are experiencing any illnesses which would require immediate medical attention.

1. Diarrhea is a sign which can be caused by infections, germs or bacteria which may have been introduced to your birds. This would cause all sorts of necessary fluids to be provided to them in order to get them to feel a whole lot better. Sometimes, food can move way too quickly through their intestines, and that is brought about by a certain disruption in their digestive processes. Nutrients aren't properly absorbed due to the rate at which the food is moving in their tiny little tummies, and this can lead to dehydration. If the stool is greenish, there may have been a case of metal poisoning.

2. Another symptom you need to watch out for is eye discharge. This is something which usually suggests Psittacosis. This is a disease which is not limited to affecting other birds, but even bird owners as well, so it is highly essential that you get to your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible, since this is a disease which can result in a quick death for your winged friend. In the event that any other humans or birds have come in contacted with the afflicted pet, it would be wise for you to get them screened just in case they were also infected with the disease. If this condition is discovered in time, you can simply have it treated with just a few antibiotics for a full recovery.

3. One of the most evident signs of your pet bird being sick is lethargy. Of course, this can be amounted to a lot of different causes, and each one of them are not good at all. When your pet bird becomes quite lethargic, it would simply mean that it is ill and should be taken to the avian veterinarian as soon as possible. This can be brought about by some possible infection from viruses, bacteria, germs, or even organ dysfunctions. With the vet's aid, tests can be performed to come up with the best possible treatment.

Caring for Society Finches

For the homeowner or pet owner who wants to have a pet bird to bond with and play with, Society Finches may be your best answer. This finch birds are called that simply because of their extremely sociable nature. These birds, unlike other types of finches are willing to sit and bond with their owner. What makes them even more remarkable is that they get on pretty well with other types of birds, not limited to their own species. They are also known to breed quite easily, and make for very responsible and good parents. They are the ideal birds for the homeowner looking for companionship, or a first time finch breeder, who want to have an easier time at taking care of their pet.

Should you want to keep this kind of bird in your home, here are a couple of tips to ensure their overall health and well-bring.

Tips for Keeping Society Finches

1. Keep Society Finches in pairs or colonies- As their name suggests, these little pets are very social in nature. They really need the company of other birds to thrive and survive. It will be pointless to keep a lone society finch for it will not survive for very long. If you have limited space, then just keep a pair of the birds. If it allows, it may be better to invest in a small group. Always make sure your pets have someone to play and interact with.

2. It is best to provide society finches with a varied diet- not quite sure what to feed your finches? We suggest a diet made up of seeds, greens, egg food and cuttlebone. These birds also love millet, so make sure to incorporate all of these things into their diet to keep things exciting for your feathered friends.

3. Society Finches love to bathe- For your pet to enjoy this little ritual, be sure to keep a bird bath inside their enclosure or cages. Don't make their baths too deep, as they may drown, and be sure to keep a separate container for their drinking water. Lastly, remember to replace both water in the bird bath and water in their water dishes regularly. You would not want your finches to drink dirty or old water.

These are pretty simple ways to keep your Society Finches happy. If you apply these tips, then you can rest assured that your beloved pets will thrive under your care.

You Can Build a Chicken Coop for Yourself

There is a common misconception that building a chicken coop is too difficult for the average person to do. When someone needs a small coop, their first instinct is to purchase a coop from somewhere else. This results in them spending more money than necessary on their chicken coop. If you're on a tight budget, however, you might find that buying a coop won't make sense for you. If this is your situation, then you should learn how to build a chicken coop yourself. Don't worry, with the right tools and a positive attitude, you can do this!

The first thing that you need to consider is the safety of the chickens, which is a major purpose of all backyard chicken coops. While shelter is important, safety is paramount.

Surrounding your chicken coop should be a run. This is an area that should be enclosed where your chickens can spend time outdoors.

You need to determine how many chickens you're going to want in your coop. Too small of a coop and you'll end up with chickens that won't lay eggs.

If you're unsure of what size you need, consider providing a nine-inch perch and four square feet of space for each chicken that you plan to keep. Your chicken run should be at least eight square feet per chicken.

You'll want to be able to tend to the coop with regular cleanings and, of course you want access to the eggs. You should ensure that you have a way to get into the coop. The door for entrance should swing into the coop, not outwards.

You also want to ensure that your coop provides plenty of air exposure as well as light for the chickens. You'll need an area for storage and a hatchway.

For materials you'll need: •3/4" rectangular plywood boards •Shingles for the roof •Chicken wire •PVC pipe •Door latches •Window catches •Acrylic sheeting •Mesh •Log pieces •Wood shavings

Because everything that you use will be exposed to the elements, make sure you purchase quality products that are already treated against moisture, mold and other problems caused by the elements.

The roosts need to be made from 2"X2" or 4"X4" planks. For the safety of your chickens, make sure that you blunt the edges so that they aren't sharp. The wood shavings will be laid out onto the floor so that cleaning simply means a quick sweeping.

When building your coop, whether it's going to be a stationary or movable chicken coop, remember the elements. If you're exposed to a lot of heat, moisture, high winds and so on, take all of these things into account when selecting the materials.

The Amazon Parrot and How They Are Amazing

I am going to introduce you to my Red-Lored Amazon Parrot, Gonzo. He is the mildest in temperament for an Amazon Parrot. He loves to be around people maybe not very cuddly, but his personality outshines that. He is very intelligent and it attentive when being spoken to. He understands you and responds to you when he is told not to do something. He is much like a dog and very loyal. I am very fortunate to have an Amazon like Gonzo.

Now we are going to talk of the genus of all Amazon parrots. There are about 30 different species within the Amazon genus. They are all on the CITES index, which means that Amazon parrots, like Macaws, Pionus, Caique parrots all protected exportation out of the wilds like Brazil, Central and South America and the likes of Mexico.

On what is called the CITES Treaty; CITES stands for Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna. The CITES also known as the Washington Convention was created by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It was adopted in 1963, the convention then opened for signatures in 1973 and entered into force on July 1, 1985.

I ask that if you do decide on an Amazon parrot be very careful as to where you purchase your Amazon from. They are an endangered species and they need to be protected by people, like you and I. That is why I highly recommend getting a hand-fed baby or adopting an older parrot. The difference between a wild caught and domestic parrot is the band they have on their leg; an open band means they have been taken out their country of origin and a closed band means they were hatched and hand-fed in the country you reside in. Many breeders do band their babies for statistical reasons, by keeping clean blood lines and knowing which aviary the baby came from. If a breeder does not band their babies I would be weary of that purchase. Remember that if one day certain species of Amazon's may become extinct in the wild, it will be you and I who not let them be forgotten; as they will be our domestic companions.

An Amazon parrot's life span, with them being healthy is around 50 years or even longer as long as they have had good nutrition and have been well taken care with their needs in mind. They are a medium size bird about 10-20 inches from head to toe. Amazon parrots have short stubby tails. Their primary colors are green feathers with coloring on their head and/or their face. Some can be very colorful to just a multitude of greens.

Diet

An Amazon parrot's diet, you have to be careful as they have a tendency to become overweight with lack of exercise from being in a cage for a number of hours a day. They eat seed, pellets, fruits, veggies and some may like human food. I highly recommend putting a pellet in their diet. It has nutrients not found in seed. Fresh fruits and veggies are very important as they contain phytonutrients (antioxidant pigments), that is not found in seed and pellets. Your Amazon needs nutritional food and also a variety of other foods because as they become bored, they need the variety for psychological enrichment. Food is mealtime but it is also playtime. Like your two year old child, mealtime is fun time. The fruits and veggies that are rich in vitamin A are dark green leaf veggies, carrots (the baby ones whole), mangos and sweet potatoes. The reason for vitamin enriched foods is because Amazon's are prone to this deficiency. All sorts of fruits and veggies can be fed. The fruits you can feed them are apples, pears, berries, mango, papaya, banana, grapes, oranges, tangerines, tangelos. The veggies you could feed them are whole baby carrots (something they can play with), cucumbers, zucchini, red peppers and chilies, even dandelion and chickweed (make sure they are not sprayed with pesticides). Gonzo loves all nuts, though Amazons are known to get obese from fatty food, he also has an indulgence for tortilla chips and ramen noodles. DO NOT feed them avocado as it is toxic to them. Make sure they have clean and fresh water every day. Amazon's like to dunk their food, so you may have to change it a couple of times a day. That is to avoid any bacterial infections.

Cage

Their bird cage should be as followed with the cage guidelines when you are buying a cage for them. Remember twice the width, so they may spread their wings and 1 1/2 times in length for their tail. Bar spacing needs to be 5/8 inch to one inch apart. There needs to be both horizontal and vertical bars to climb around on. The cage Gonzo has is 24x20x27.

They need plenty of toys to play with. Make sure the bowls are secured to the cage because Amazons are renowned throwers. I recommend an extra bowl for treats, fruits and veggies; besides their water and food bowls.

You need to wash their food and water bowls daily. Clean their cage at least once a week, by washing everything down with water and a small amount of dish detergent. Make sure it is well rinsed off when you put your parrot back into the cage after cleaning. Their trays can become quite messy as everything goes on the floor or below them. They do not have best table manners. I like to change their trays with newspaper every time I feed them. Newspaper is nontoxic and cheap to get. I do not recommend pine saw dust or ground shells. There is a chance of getting a bacterial infection or them eating it and getting sick.

Illness

We have spoken of bacterial infections and you are wondering "How do I know if my parrot is not feeling well?" The signs can be different so watch them carefully. Watch your parrot carefully because parrots differs from one another when there are signs if illness. If their demeanor changes from lively to sullen, ruffled plumage, resting often with their head tucked into their back (keep in mind that your parrot may prefer to sleep this way), consistent sneezing (yes parrots do sneeze). Now the most noticeable ones to watch for are if they do sneeze and discharge is coming from their nostrils, cloudy eyes and any change in their droppings (feces). I recommend you to have a good avian vet specialist, who you have relationship with; that knows your parrot so you may call them after hours for any potential issues that should arise.

Gonzo

Gonzo is not caged and we do not have to be subjected to the aggression that Amazons are known for. The more your parrot is out and interacting with the family they are more likely to be friendlier and not so aggressive. Amazon's can be the most aggressive of all parrot species; however this varies from Amazon to Amazon. Our Red-Lored is one of the mildest and more adaptable to the family life than other known species. These issues can be alleviated by not caging your parrot for excessive periods of time. Gonzo is not caged; he hangs on top of his cage and playpen, watching the day goes by. This also gives him a chance for exercise and prevents the obesity Amazons are known for. Please do not keep them on their perch in the middle of their cage; as they will appear like a stuffed parrot and when approached will bring out their aggressive side.

Behavior

How your Amazon parrot behaves. Many are very loyal, like a dog. Extremely intelligent and playful; you can teach them to play basketball and roller-skate; these are typical toys that can be purchased. They are outstanding talkers and yes, even sing opera. Amazon parrots love classical and traditional anthem music. Keep in mind that each species of parrots are individualistic and have differences, so you may get an Amazon parrot who does not sing or talk. In our case, our Red-Lored does not sing nor talk, but is fantastic just the way he is. Never get a parrot expecting it to talk, get it because you want a lifelong companion. Amazon parrots are great screamers and vocalization, not as loud as a cockatoo or macaw though. They can be quite noisy at times, especially when the sun comes up and goes down. When it is breeding season and they hit puberty, about 5 or 6 though it could be later, they can turn into Jekyll and Hyde. Ride it out, this your companion you made, it is a commitment to for life.

Amazon parrot loves to bathe with a mister or in the shower, it is fun time and it can be quite comical. Their world is about playing. May it be with food to the toys in their cage; they see the world as an adventure playground.

Keeping this all in mind; you will have a happy family when you understand your new found companion and their idiosyncrasies. Gonzo is everything that one that anyone could ever ask for. He is beautiful, great disposition in life and shows us how to take one day at a time. We are grateful for Gonzo; hopefully after you have done all your research and made that commitment as to what kind of parrot you decided on, you have decided on an Amazon parrot.

A Short Guide to Popular Birds of Prey

Birds of prey are normally birds that are larger than the average size of birds. They normally prey on other animals for their food. Unlike other birds, their main tool of hunting is not the beak but rather their talons. Their vision and flight skills are some of the best in the animal kingdom. Compared to other birds, the talons and beaks of birds of prey are extremely powerful. The female birds of prey are normally larger than the males. This article looks at some of the most popular birds of prey that there are.

Eagles

Eagles are probably the most popular raptors in the world. They are very large and very powerful. They normally build their nests on very high places. It is very rare to find an eagles' nest below 75 feet. Rather than use twigs and leaves to build their nests like other birds, eagles use sticks instead. The whole process of building an eagle's nest usually takes at least 6 months. The reason behind eagles' ability to glide in the air for a long time without flapping its wings is that it has a very wide wingspan. Eagles usually lay only two eggs. However, it is very common for the dominant chick, which is normally female, to kill its younger and weaker sibling.

Falcons

Falcons are not as large as eagles. However, they are some of the fastest birds in the air. Some species of falcon can fly at up to speeds of 200 miles per hour. Falcons' wings are tapered and, unlike other birds, they do not build their own nests. The birding practice of falconry is a very popular one today. This is the practice of using trained falcons to hunt.

Hawks

Hawks and falcons have more or less the same size. They hunt for prey in two main ways - by flying and by walking. Similar to their larger relatives, the eagles, hawks' nests are built of sticks. However, compared to eagles, hawks lay more eggs. A single female hawk can lay up to 6 eggs and, sometimes, even more.

Kites

Compared to the other birds in this list, kites are not as powerful and aggressive. Their main foods are snails, insects and small animals. Kites are also scavengers. They feed on dead animals and garbage.

Osprey

Ospreys are of only one species. Their main habitats are near water bodies. These hunting bodies are their main sources of food. It is common to see ospreys hovering above a water body and upon seeing prey (normally fish), they dive at a very fast speed and catch the prey.

Owls

Owls are nocturnal birds of prey. Their eyes face forward and their face is in the shape of a disc. This disc-shaped face helps them to detect sounds at night. It is almost impossible to hear an owl fly at night due to the fact that its feathers are normally very soft.

Vultures

Vultures are the last birds of prey to be discussed in this article. They are scavengers and so their main diet is dead animals' bodies. They do not have any hairs on their heads. This helps them to remain clean even when they poke their bodies into the bloody flesh of dead animals while eating.

A good website that can be useful to find more information on birds of prey, binoculars to watch them, figurines of your favorite birds and books on birds of prey is http://www.birdsofpreyinfo.com/

Why Birds Don't Need Rudders

Well, as a pilot myself I have a fascination for anything that flies whether imagined or actual. Therefore, I have no problem sitting in a park and watching birds fly by putting on a private air show going about their business and doing their thing. They seem to enjoy flying sideways, and their maneuverability is extremely proficient along with their ability to morph their wings and feathers to come in for the perfect two point landing. Their level of agility has been a fascination of mankind, aerospace designers, and today's modern pilots. Okay so let's talk.

It seems we like to copy nature for most of our technological designs. As well we should, because evolution has created the most efficient solutions to the challenges of mobility in this domain. It seems humans have a tough time building an airplane without a vertical fin. They have trouble keeping it going straight. Interestingly enough, birds don't seem to have a problem flying straight, and their bodies are not shaped like a fin, they don't have fins like fish at all. Have you ever asked yourself why?

It's not that evolution couldn't have provided this, it has provided fins for other animals that move through other mediums such as water, but when it came to birds apparently they didn't need the extra fin or the rudder to help steer them. It seems to me there's a simple reason for this, and it is the same reason that someone flying a hang glider doesn't need a vertical fin. The hang glider can shift his weight from side to side and if he keeps his body perfectly situated to the relative wind there's not a problem with lateral control.

When a bird wishes to turn, they just lean a certain way, or they can crab into the wind and fly sideways without any problem at all. They don't seem to be challenged by crosswind landings or steering in any regard. The gentleman that flies the Delta-wing jet on his back after he parachutes from an airplane, tells audiences and enthusiasts that he just leans in the direction he wishes to travel. His wing doesn't even change shape, but he still has full control.

Maybe airplanes don't really need wings they just need a way to shift their weight and morph the fuselage slightly, something that living species can learn very quickly. Species which include all of the birds, bats, insects, and humans with Delta wings and hang gliders strapped to their back. I ask that you close your eyes, and think about this for a few moments. Then go design something, something that flies straight and true. Please consider all this.

Controlling Feather Dust -7 Steps To Take Toward Reducing The White Powder

If you are having problems with feather dust you probably live with an African Grey, Cockatoo, or Cockatiel. These stunning parrots are well know for the white powder that their feathers require to stay healthy. Here are 7 ways to minimize this dust in your air.

Throw Water At It---One of the best ways to get rid of dust is to use water. This will yield better results than any method of dry cleaning such as sweeping or dusting. Your bird can also benefit from bird baths.

You can provide a bowl separate from drinking water and let your bird throw water up shake it out. Shower perches are also a great way to wash the powder and dander away and still allow you to spend time with your pet.

Dress Your Room For Success---Some types of furniture and accessories are better at trapping particles than others. And you want to avoid the ones that trap particles. Instead choose furnishings that can be easily wiped clean, or washed. Choose vertical blinds or shades rather than draperies that hold particles because of their woven construction.

Choose hard surfaces for flooring with rugs that can easily be washed rather than professionally cleaned. Furniture should also be able to be wiped clean. Leather or leather-type materials are a great choice for releasing dander and dust

Cover Your Mouth (And Nose)---When cleaning the cage, vacuuming or damp mopping floors wear a mask. If you are at all sensitive to these allergens, have someone else clean do the cleaning.

Learn To Say No---At some point more is not better for you or the birds. Given that your space is limited, the number of birds that you can keep healthy is limited as well. Providing a healthy atmosphere to a few birds is better than adopting more than for which you can adequately provide.

Remember To Change---The more you can change the better. Start with furnace filters. Instead of once every 6 months increase the frequency to once a month.

Changing the paper in the cage frequently will cut down on the amount of bacteria available from dried feces attaching to dust and becoming airborne. These are the type of particulates that can cause health problems for birds and humans.

Use A HEPA Vacuum Cleaner---Many vacuums blow air out that sends dust and particles back into the air. Using a cleaner with a high efficiency particle arresting filter keeps the pollutants in and only releases clean air. This literally keeps the dander and dust down in your bird's room.

Filter The Air Continually---Preening, flying, and playing are normal movements that happen for most of a bird's life. These normal activities all send particles into the air.

The only way to take them out is to continually filter the air with a HEPA filter. This type of technology is designed to trap particles that are.3 microns or greater.

The good news is that this technology is safe and is used in hospitals to insure clean air. It does not produce any ionized particles or any amount of ozone (as both of these technologies remain controversial).

Taking all of these steps will drastically reduce the feather dust in your home and greatly improve the quality of life for you and your bird.

The Barn Owl

When I think about owls it's hard not to think about barn owls. I was raised in the country where barns and owls are plentiful. Barn owls are notorious for being extremely efficient silent hunters. The wings of the barn owl are made in such a way as to break the wind crossing over them. This disrupts the air flow in a manner that eliminates noise across the wings while they are in flight.

This ability to fly silently makes them fierce hunters. They can locate their prey and swoop down upon them without a sound. The Barn Owl is one of the most studied of all owls.

There have been extensive studies done with Barn Owls in totally darkened rooms to discover how they hunt their prey. It has been proven that they can hunt totally by sound alone. Sound is channeled through their facial 'Ruff' which is a concave surface on stiff feathers around the face. These are usually marked with dark tips. Once sound is detected they can pinpoint it accurately within 1 1/2 degrees.

Another interesting thing about them is that aside from sound they also depend on their familiarity with the surrounding territory for hunting. They spend a lot of time sitting and studying their hunting territories. This familiarity and intimate knowledge of the territory helps them to easily pounce on their prey.

Breeding And Nesting Habits

Barn Owls like to breed in places that are open or at least partly open. They love to find farmland and grasslands to breed in. They usually will have only one brood but on some occasions have been known to throw two.

They will nest in cliff crevices and will occasionally burrow in arroyo walls. They willingly take to nest boxes. Their nests are usually unlined but on occasion they will attempt at lining them with wood chips or small twigs and sticks.

The clutch size varies depending on the availability of prey and how hard the preceding winter happened to be. The males will feed the females throughout the incubation period. The young will hatch asynchronously over a span of two weeks.

They are monogamous breeders. Their young are semi-altricial. The eggs are white in color and are more elliptical than eggs of other owl species. They roost alone as a rule but will on occasion roost communally. Diet And Conservation

They feed mainly on rodents. On rare occasions they will eat amphibians, insects, and reptiles. The species is in decline due to a loss of grasslands and farmlands through suburbanization. They winter within the United States.

Displays And Mating Rituals

When they are confronted it will lower its head and sway it from side to side. During courtship the Male will clap its wings together while in flight to attract its mate. It will ritually present food to its female interest to gain approval.

Barn Owls have been a friend to farmers for many years. It was always good to have a Barn Owl and a black snake in the barn to keep the mice and rats away. But it does make for a lazy cat.

Ravens As Pets - Sorry, Too Smart For You Humans

Many people want to get birds as pets, and they tend to like the most colorful ones, and/or those which are the most intelligent. The African Gray species is one of the favorites that humans like to take in as pets. Humans believe them to be quite smart because they can learn words, and they have extremely well evolved voice capabilities. However, you must understand that there are many other birds that are also quite smart and intelligent. One very intelligent bird species are those birds that look like big black crows; ravens.

It is amazing what they have been observed doing in the wild. They think, adapt, hunt, and they use tools. They do just about everything they can to prove to us they are intelligent, and yet because they are birds, sometimes we don't see it that way. It is interesting that we believe the African grays are so intelligent because we observe them up close and personal as pets in cages. The ravens can be somewhat tamed over time, but you can't use trickery tactics and merely food to keep their interests. In many regards they might be simply too smart to be pets.

Since they are so cunning and intelligent, they have also intrigued man, and because they are black they take on a spooky occult like image in the minds of men. They learn quite quickly, and they can solve problems. They're a lot smarter than we give them credit for and therefore they end up surprising us time and time again. Is this the reason we have used them in our horror films and stories, as demonic, evil, or out to get us? Who knows, maybe they really are?

Now then, there are some people who are even more intrigued due to the stigma, and therefore wish to make them pets, simply for the fact that they are spooky to so many. Ravens can take care of themselves without any problem in a wild due to their intelligence, their size, their big claws, and their ability to reason, adapt, hunt, and use tools. They do not need human's help, not even a little bit. They're also smart enough to know that if you are offering assistance, food, or something that they need, then it behooves them to cooperate.

In many regards ravens are a lot like humans. Still, ravens as pets may not work out for you, there are simply too smart for humans, and are not easily manipulated or tricked. Plus they are fiercely independent, and they don't need us, it's just that some people feel they need a friend or a pet, and those birds always seem to be around. Please consider all this and think on it.

Why Are White Birds Becoming the Most Popular?

The other day, I went into a pet store because I was looking for something to write on the topic of pet birds. As I was talking to the pet store owner, a local well-known business person, in fact, I can vouch for Sam, we've even worked on some local community projects together. We got to talking about the cost for caring for a large bird, such as an African gray. He explained to me that the new thing was that people wanted birds which were white in color.

He wasn't sure what the fascination was, although he did say that white little designer dogs and white cats are also on the request list, and there are fewer at the pound, as they generally get adopted quickly as well. I told him a theory that the CEO of BMW had mentioned in the Wall Street Journal. He called it the "Apple Affect" and that people were buying white BMWs to match their Apple iPhones, and other products. He laughed, and said he wouldn't be surprised.

Interestingly enough, I did meet someone last month at Starbucks, and she had bought a cover for her Apple iPad. Then she mentioned that all of her wardrobe now contained that same color, it's even painted her fingernails and toenails to match. It seems, that white is in, even for pet birds. The problem is due to supply and demand, many of the very colorful parrots are not selling so well, people want the white ones, therefore the price has risen. Sam told me it wasn't his fault, his costs had also gone up, so he had to pass those costs on to the consumer.

He showed me a white parrot, boy was it beautiful, he said; "this bird has already been sold," and the parents said; "I am sold, I am sold." Wow I thought, that's pretty funny, and it turns out that one of the girls who works there taught the parrot to say that because people kept asking how much it was. And then the parrot said; "look over there, look over there." And sure enough, there were other birds on the next row, also for sale, birds which had not been sold yet.

This is why white pet birds are becoming the most popular right now, and Sam wasn't sure how long that trend would last, previously they were not in such high demand. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it if you are shopping for a pet bird.

Rescue Parrots and Why You Should Get One

Parrots have become the 3rd most popular pet to have. Though people do not want a parrot that screams, is destructive or bites. Sorry to say but these three things you will find in a parrot. These are just their attributes.

When you go to the store to get you baby parrot they are docile and cuddly and you are made to believe that when they mature they will stay that way; this farthest from the truth.

Parrots are not like dogs or cats and have only been domesticated a couple of generations. Parrots are still very much naturalistic and are learning to adapt to being domesticated and not in their natural surroundings of the rainforest.

Many people who purchase a baby parrot have probably never had a parrot before. They do not realize or do not want to think that their precious baby bites, is destructive or screams.

Parrots vet bills can be expensive, they require lots of toys and a very spacious cage, their food can be costly and they require lots of fruits and veggies. Parrots also need lots of attention and interaction within their flock (the family they live with). With all this said people still go out and purchase a parrot not accepting these facts.

After realizing there is so much more involved with a parrot other than sticking it in a cage and saying how pretty a parrot I have. They are given up to whom I do not know.

Which in turn the parrot starts to have behavioral problems or starts plucking. The parrot is given to multiple families and in the end they are eventually taken to the vet to be euthanized or stuck in a closet or back room and ignored.

Remember this is not how the life of the parrot started but in the end this is what happens to them. Not many parrots are given to rescues because people do not know of them or put in a loving home. Parrots are not a commodity they are sensitive intelligent creatures put on this earth.

Parrots are not pets as their wild instincts will always remain. People buy parrots with no real thought except they saw "Polly" or they want the parrot that talks because that is cool.

Parrots have become a status to own which is sad because the parrot will never have a chance to a good life. When the parrot does not talk or do tricks or they are no longer cool; what happens to them? Unfortunately this is a question I have no answer for but I dread the thought for the outcome.

Parrots are very social and have very real feelings, they also bond for life. That is why it is devastating to have a parrot and then just throw it away because of their wild instincts; which many people who own a parrot do.

Do we consider any of these facts when we buy that precious baby? I think not. If you are not up to the task of an adult parrot and you buy that baby with no real thought. You should not own a parrot. May sound cold-hearted but it is the truth.

If you really want a parrot and you have thought it through why not come to the aid of a parrot in need? I agree there is a lot of work to be done like gaining their trust. You should consider a rescue because that parrot is craving for a loving secure home and to be a part of someone's family. You may just luck out and that parrot may know some tricks and have an outstanding vocabulary.

I agree there is a lot of work to be done because first you have to gain their trust. Remember and be prepared that there is a lot of work to be done in gaining their trust. Be patient, loving and kind and one day that parrot will acknowledge the love and kindness you have bestowed upon them. The best way to gain a parrot's trust is through their stomach. Yes, just like your significant other; whose stomach knows you love them.

You may get a parrot that has plucked their feathers and may not look the most beautiful but is that why you got the parrot? Their beauty is their personality. If you want a parrot because of its beauty, you are probably very shallow.

The rescue parrot may bite unprovoked. Parrots bite out of fear or if they are angry about something you have done that they do not like; such as putting them down when they want to be on you. The parrot may be fearful as you do not know all the facts of its previous life. Showing the parrot it is now safe and very much loved will follow with being bitten less. Parrots still bite and that is a fact of life.

A parrot is usually a screamer because it was ignored. Parrots do make noise and these are just instincts from the wild. Parrots call each other or make noise when you get up in the morning and when the sun is going down. Some parrots are louder than others like people have different tones in their voice.

Destruction, there is not much that can be done for that as that is the nature of a parrot. Parrots are very instinctual by nature to do the things they do in the wild. Parrots call to each other and chew and this will never change in parrot's life.

When you realize a parrot is instinctual by nature you will get along splendidly. Many of these issues can be worked on and you will end up having a fantastic relationship; one that you have always wanted with a parrot.

When you buy that bundle of joy you are only feeding the selfishness of the breeder or a store who does not care for the welfare of the parrot but the cold hard cash. Yes there are parrot mills just like the deplorable puppy mills with many of the same horrible conditions. That colorful bird store, it can be the worst culprit in selling babies. The bundle of love of a rescue parrot can be so much more satisfying and worthwhile in the long run.

I adopted a 10 year old Blue Streak Lory. She has no belly feathers but her personality makes your heart melt. I had always wanted a Lory but thought it would never fit into our family as we have three hook bills and they do not live in a cage. I visited the Birmingham Zoo and went to the Lory exhibit and once again my heart yearned for a Lory. I called my girlfriend who has extreme avian knowledge and told her of desire for a Lory. She asked if I was serious and she happened to have a Blue Streak Lory that needed a home. I told her I was very serious and we both benefited with the adoption. Her name was Zorro but I renamed her Zara to give her a fresh start in life. She is insecure and plucks her belly feathers but it is something we are working on. She was given up because the previous family decided to rescue Labrador dogs and that is the avenue they took. Zara had been with them since she was a baby to 10 years old. It was the only life she knew and they gave her up.

When you get a parrot it is for life and that is what I strongly believe in. For the simple fact that parrots are so intelligent and that they are social animals. We are a flock member in a parrot's mind not that they have become a pet in our family.

When a parrot is given up they do not understand why and cannot comprehend the abandonment. Because of their thought process this why you run into many behavioral problems in abandoned parrots. Many times when a parrot feels safe again the behavioral problems you encountered have diminished, may not be gone forever but diminished. You as the new flock member must take into consideration their feelings of confusion and make the transition as safe and nurturing as possible.

I am grateful to have Zara in our family now. This opportunity to change a parrot's life is very rewarding. For Zara to know and realize one day she is safe and very much loved and doesn't need to pluck out of insecurity; will be a very happy day.

The Cardinal

Many backyard bird watchers love to watch the Cardinal. It is the state bird of Kentucky and beloved by many. Also known as the 'redbird' it really spices up the scenery with a beautiful bright red color that is offset by its bright yellow beak and black around the eyes.

This is the male Cardinal we are talking about. The females have a more brownish color with hints of red. This enables them to blend in with their surroundings while sitting on the nest.

The Northern cardinal really stands out against the green and brown backdrops of the summer months. They stand out even more against a fresh sheet of new white snow. They winter within the U.S. and have a tendency to move North to Northeast when during late summer or early fall.

Cardinal Eggs

They are known for breeding in residential areas as well as in thickets, undergrowth, and dense shrubs. Redbirds are monogamous breeders with eggs that can be a variety of colors. Some eggs are bluish, some grayish, and some a greenish-white. The eggs are marked with purples, grays, and browns.

They lay these eggs in a nest that can range from well lined to scarcely lined. The nests can be compact and firm or quite flimsy. They will use many building materials for their nests like-

• Leaves & Interwoven Paper • Weed Stems • Pliable Twigs • Hair • Fine Grass • Bark Strips • Rootlets

The chicks will develop from an Altricial state (helpless, blind, and naked). The Cardinal diet consists mainly of insects, seeds, and fruits.

Additional Information For Back Yard Bird Watchers

It was in the 50's when feeding birds out in the backyard became popular. It has been estimated that the annual expenditure for feeding birds out back in this country is over a half billion dollars. Nearly one out of three households contributes and average of 60 pounds of bird food yearly.

This might make it seem as if some species were dependent on us for their existence. While we are able to help in areas of need scientists believe that no species would become extinct if our handouts were to stop tomorrow. They foresee no drop in populations either.

The Northern Cardinal along with some others like the-

• Red-Bellied Woodpecker • Tufted Titmouse • Mourning Dove • House Finch

Have all been the beneficiaries of range expansions due to human supplemental bird feeding. Some birds like the Mourning Dove have found migrating no longer a necessity with so much food being readily available. The rest of the bunch are still working their way Northward every year.

The generosity of back yard bird feeding individuals can sometimes pull a few weak birds through the tough times of winter. After a heavy snow or an ice storm natural foods can become inaccessible.

Bird Watchers will notice their birds increasing their visits to the feeders during harsh winters. Studies have shown certain small birds like chickadees can actually add around 4% more fat when they feed on sunflower seeds rather than their natural diets of berries and conifer seeds.

The drawback to the feeding stations is when they attract weakened birds that are carrying disease. Aspergillosis is a potentially deadly infection found in some molds on bread or damp grain. When birds inhale the mold that has been infected with Aspergillus fumigatus it can result in death.

Mating Displays

The male and female will stretch out their necks. With erect crests they will begin singing softly and swaying back and forth from one side to the other. The Cardinal is truly a backyard bird watcher delight.