It is fulfilling to own a parrot, yet there’s a lot more to ownership than meets the eye. Parrots are usually sought after for their comical and entertaining personalities. Also their dashing colors. Various species of parrots can live from 10 to more than 100 years. So having a parrot as a pet is known as a lifetime commitment.
Important Things to Know About Parrots as Pets:
- The Key is a Balanced Diet
A lot of new bird owners will get a bag of birdseed or pellets. Thinking of proper nutrition for their birds. Parrots should have a more balanced diet compared to this. Yet, there are various foods to prevent. Improper diets can cause problems with feather growth. Vitamin deficiencies, strain on the body, and illness. Always provide clean water and food in dishes that will not stimulate bacteria. Always clean them regularly.
Standard pellet food differs in quality and is high in fat. The ideal diet for a Talkie Parrot includes 50% supplemented food and 50% pellet food. Fruits, vegetables, Table scraps, cooked eggs, lean cooked meats are supplemented food.
- Birds also need to be groomed
Cut your bird’s nails just like trimming a cat’s nails. Regular clippers can be used on the guillotine or smaller birds or scissor-style clippers that is recommended for big birds. To remove the shard edge, trim the edge of the nail and be careful not to trim the quick. This area houses can bleed if cut too deep. If needed, you can stop the bleeding using a styptic powder. You can also bring your parrot to an avian veterinarian or expert groomer. If you’re uncomfortable clipping the nails yourself. A lot of owners and breeders of indoor-only parrots like to clip the wings to avoid flight.
- Deciding on Species
Before having your new pet there are a lot of varieties of parrots to consider. Lovebirds are a little species of parrot that owns big personalities yet are fairly companions. These features make them amazing for apartment living. While the bigger home might be more perfect for an African Grey parrot or vocal cockatiel. Parrots can also be trained, although some are more likely to sing and whistle while some speak words or mimic sounds. Consider carefully the characteristics of every species before making a decision. Remember that various species can outlive their owners. You should have arrangements for their future care.
- Parrots Hide Illness Well
To be avoid being targeted by predators, birds have a natural possibility to hide any signs of illness. There are distinct signs that your parrot is not feeling well. So prepare to visit a vet if you observe these symptoms:
- Excessive sleeping
- Changing balance when sleeping or sleeping differently
- Feathers are puffed up or ruffled
- Change in diet (eating not enough or too much)
- Heavy breathing
- Discharges from the nostrils, eyes, or vent
- Change in fecal droppings/ matter
- Munching on feathers or patches of bald areas
You should track your parrot daily and notice anything that is not normal. If any of the symptoms above are existing, an illness might be to blame.
- The Social Circle
Big parrots can do a lot of noise, while smaller parrots like cockatiels aren’t noisy. Parrots are considered to be more vocal when bored or ignored. So make sure that they have things insider their cage for entertainment. You must also consider the placement of the cage. Parrots must have enough space in the cage to spread their wings horizontally.
Parrots can live longer sometimes much longer compared to their owners. They must have daily care, entertainment, and to check for signs of illness.
