These are just a few of the thoughts and insights that I have accrued throughout the years. Hope they assist you in enjoying your feathered family member. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Note: If any of the items below are countrary to the advice given to you by your Veterinarian, please follow the directions of the medical professional.

+ Think before you buy... bird ownership is a fulltime commitment

+  Hand feeding is a serious business...too many babies die due to inexperienced hand feeding...think twice before you decide to breed your birds to educate your kids or because you think it would be "neat."

+  A healthy bird has bright eyes, is active and readily eats, has smooth feathers, no bald spots and has a clean vent (hiney).

+  Amazons, Cockatoos, Conures and Macaws are the loudmouths.

+  If you can smell a household product, don't use it.

+ Some cleaning products, cigarettes, incense, potpurri, and overheated non-stick cookware can definitely harm your pet. A good rule is "if you can smell it, don't use it" around your bird.

+ A bird's cage should be at least twice its wingspan in width and three times its length in height.

+ Check toys regularly for safety....brittle toys can shatter, lead weighted toys can be cracked open to expose toxic lead, chains and links can loosen and catch toes and beaks etc.....

+ Clean your birds cage thoroughly at least once per week.

+ Change water several times a day if needed....dirty water is the most common cause of illness.

+ Even though bird bites seem to come out of nowhere to us, your bird has a very valid reason for biting....try and understand the motivation.

+ All birds make noise...it is their nature...you will never be able to eliminate all noise, nor should you try...the noise level can be managed to an acceptable level with patience and understanding.

+ Do not attempt to trim your bird's beak by yourself....seek the help of a professional.

+ Canaries and Finches normally do not need to have their wings trimmed.

+ Never let your bird around your mouth....never kiss your bird on it's beak....our mouths contain bacteria and can make your pet ill.

Hope this helps a bit....Get out the sunblock and enjoy the springtime sunshine

Keep Safe,

anne