Bird Basics: Lovebirds

The name “lovebirds” isn’t just a cute name for a cute bird. These little birds form strong bonds with owners and mates and cannot thrive without frequent interaction. If you don’t have a lot of time to spend with your lovebird, you will need to purchase a mate to keep your feathered friend company. Lovebirds come from Africa and Madagascar and have been a popular pet bird for more than a century. They are extremely social, intelligent, playful, and affectionate. Because they are extremely active pets, lovebirds need space in their cages to explore, climb, and fly. They also love … Continue reading

Bird Behavior: Biting

One of the most common problems bird owners have with their feathered friends is biting. There are several reasons why an exotic bird may bite; knowing why may help you avoid getting bitten. Birds may bite out of instinct. Certain instincts have not and/or cannot be bred out of a bird. Birds may bite out of fear or distrust of humans. A bird may bite someone he does not recognize or does not trust. Allowing an unfamiliar person to approach and try to pick up your bird may lead to a bite. A trip to the vet’s office (another strange … Continue reading

Why Birds Make Great Pets

If you think a bird is just a pretty ball of feathers in a cage, think again! Birds make great family pets! Birds are great for apartment living because they don’t take up a lot of space and don’t need daily walks. Check with your rental property — they may not charge an extra pet fee to keep a bird in your apartment! If you live alone, a bird’s chirps and twitters help break the silence and keep you company. Birds are very social! The more time you give to your bird, the stronger your bond will be. Birds can … Continue reading

Bird Basics: Lifespans and Lifelong Care

If you are adding a bird to the family, be prepared for a long commitment. As a general rule, the larger a bird is, the longer it may live. In ideal conditions, you can expect these life spans from pet birds: Finches, canaries, and budgies can live fifteen years or more Cockatiels, lovebirds, doves, and pigeons can live twenty years or more Conures can live thirty years or more Amazons and African greys can live fifty years or more Macaws can live sixty years or more Cockatoos can live sixty-five years or more Want to keep your bird happy and … Continue reading