Birds can be good companions and will form close associations with humans. As such, having birds as pets has long been a popular choice. Having a pet can also be therapeutic for kids and adults alike; and will teach children how to be responsible and caring as well. However, a bird as a pet necessarily means taking a creature out of its natural habitat and confining it to cramped quarters and an unnatural existence. Here is how you can be a responsible bird owner:
You need to be prepared for the fact that birds are a long-term commitment – many birds can live for several decades. They require care, attention and affection. They can also be noisy, destructive and demanding. Be prepared for this and ensure that no one in the family is allergic to birds before just going ahead and buying one.
Try to avoid the bird forming a single person bond. This can cause the bird to get aggressive with others. Get the whole family involved tasks related to caring for the bird.
Find out what sort of food is required by the bird species you adopt and also find out about the amount and frequency of feeding. Keep the bird’s living area clean and make sure that the bird is kept in a temperature range that the species is adapted to.
This is a creature meant to fly. Confining it to a cage could be considered cruel and can weaken the bird’s muscles. Ensure that the bird’s enclosure is large enough for it to be comfortable. Let the bird out of the cage and let it fly around for some time at least each day. We're not saying get it skates, but remember, birds need exercise too!
Other pets in the house such as dogs or cats, ceiling or table fans, open fires, hot utensils, etc can be dangerous for birds to be around. Ensure that your bird has a safe, non-threatening environment to be in.
Birds can be very sociable. It is a good idea to have two birds so that one can be a companion to the other. It is also important to interact with the bird, give it attention. This is good for the bird and is also thought to be therapeutic for the bird owner.
Make sure you're not adopting a bird that is a protected or endangered species. How was the bird acquired; bred in captivity or captured? Does the pet store owner engage in cruel practices such as clipping of wings or blunting of the bird’s claws or beak? These are things that should be non-acceptable to you.
Ensure that the bird is well taken care of when you go out of town. If possible let your bird be in a sunny spot where it gets some benefit of natural sunlight. Consider getting your bird some little toys or accessories that will help to engage and stimulate it.
Do you have something interesting you would like to share? Write to us at [email protected]
