What to Expect: Bringing a New Bird into the Family

Parrots and other birds can be very rewarding pets, but can also be challenging to an owner who does not know what to expect from his or her avian companion. Researching the particular species you are interested in, talking with other bird owners, and visiting bird stores to observe the various species prior to your purchase or adoption are highly recommended in order to ensure a good match of bird and owner.

Birds in general, and parrots in particular, are very social and interactive creatures. Thus, they are not appropriate pets for individuals who are away from home frequently or do not have much time to spend with a pet. They require playtime on a daily basis and should not be left in their cage all day long, no matter how large a cage it may be. They are very sensitive to change and stress in their environment, and may develop negative behaviors if they are neglected or if there is a dramatic change in their situation, such as a new baby, fighting or arguing in the home, people moving into or out of the home, or various other circumstances.

Birds are also very sensitive to environmental factors and airborne particles, such as smoke, strong cleaning products, overheated nonstick cookware, heavy perfumes, and nicotine. These can be harmful or fatal to birds. Heavy metals such as lead or zinc can also be fatal, and care must be taken to ensure that metals your bird is in contact with are safe, preferably stainless steel.

In order to ensure your new pet’s health and well-being, it is vital that the bird see a qualified avian veterinarian as soon as possible for a wellness check and husbandry discussion. The importance of a proper formulated diet cannot be stressed enough, as nutrition is the basis of good health, and seed-based diets are insufficient to provide the nutrients pet birds need.

Behavioral issues are also a concern for new owners, as birds communicate in an entirely different fashion from humans, and we may inadvertently send the wrong signals to our avian friends, resulting in undesired behaviors. It is always better to have information in advance, rather than addressing issues that have become ingrained or trying to break long-established habits.

Your new bird should be screened for psittacosis, also known as Avian Chlamydia, as soon as possible, because this is a bacteria which can be contracted by humans as well as other birds. Additionally, screens for Avian Bornavirus, Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease, and Avian Herpesvirus should be performed, all from a small drop of blood. Diseases affecting birds are highly contagious, so any birds being added to an existing flock need to be carefully quarantined until they are given a clean bill of health by an avian veterinarian.

You can expect to take your healthy pet bird to an avian veterinarian twice a year – once for a thorough yearly checkup, which should include a fecal analysis to screen for parasites and bloodwork to monitor the functioning of internal organs and to check for infection, inflammation, or anemia. At the 6-month mark, the bird should be seen for a physical exam and fecal analysis to monitor the bird’s weight and general physical condition and catch any developing concerns early.

With proper care and nutrition, depending on species, your new pet will be with you for anywhere from 10-80 years, so bird ownership is not something to be taken lightly. A well-informed, well-prepared owner will find that he or she has a fascinating, loving, and delightful companion for life.