February 6, 2007
[What's Squawking!] - Issue 5
Dear Friends,Hope you are having a roll of a time parenting your colorful feathered squawk. Now tell me, don’t you think it would be nice to be able to determine the sex of your Parrot-child visually?
The naming of the pet wouldn't be like trying to hit the bull's eye! And guessing on what pronoun to use when referring to them would not be a riddle anymore.
Even when you want to mate your bird, the process would be easier because you would just know to which gender your parrot belongs.
But a bird's sex is often a closely guarded secret, which either the bird knows or perhaps others of its own kind. But there are a few handy and easily applicable clues that can help in sexing the Parrots, but you can never be 100% sure.
Some species' gender are easily distinguishable as:
Male and Female Eclectus are of different colors - the male is green, the female red.
The cere (nasal area) of a male Parakeet is blue while a female's is brown when they mature.
A female Cockatoo's eyes turn brown as they grow up, but that does not happen all the time.
African Greys can be distinguished by body size and the shape of the eye.
Bird specialists suggest that a Quaker Parrot's sex can be determined by looking at the shape of its forehead. The males have raised foreheads - a more prominent crown, whereas the females have a gentler slope from the forehead up across the crown.
The other visible sign in Quakers is the size of the beak. Males have a wider beak while the females have a narrower one. Even the way they stand on their perch helps to adjudge their sex. A wide stance is peculiarly for females and a tighter stance for males.
Conures can be laid on their back and you can feel their pelvic bones to know which gender it belongs to. If the bones are close together (close or almost touching), then it is a male; if the bones are ribbed far apart then its a female. This is because the females require extra pelvic space for the eggs.
The female Lovebird is built heavier than the male and sits squarely with legs apart, while the males sit more upright. A female's tail is broader while a male's is more rounded. If you watch their nesting behavior, you will notice that the female does most of the nest building work.
These are attributes give a sketchy overview of the Parrot’s gender through visually observable physical characteristics. But they cannot be put down as guidelines.
Only experienced breeders or professional trainers or vets can manage to infer the sex of Parrots through these external manifestations.
But there are ways that can help you know the sex of your pet.
How to distinguish between the sexes accurately:
To know for sure whether your pet is a male or a female, you can adopt a few time-tested scientific methods used with varying degrees of success. The four breakthrough scientifically based approaches are:
1. DNA Sexing
2. Surgical Sexing
3. Blood Feather Testing
4. Fecal Analysis.
DNA Sexing A few drops of blood taken from the vein or toenail of the bird, is what is needed for DNA sexing. The technique of collecting blood sample is convenient, trouble-free and painless.
From this blood sample, the processed and cultured DNA is scanned to produce a 'picture'. This 'picture' is analyzed to certify the bird's sex. Within a span of three to four weeks, you can receive an accurate result.
Each bird's DNA is unique and unchangeable just as that of the human beings. Therefore, this test can be conducted on babies as well as adults.
Another utility of this test is that it can be used as a means of identification. This DNA sample is stored much like a fingerprint, for future matching and identification.
The knowledge of the species (breed) of the parrot is necessary during the test, so the correct probe can be used in identifying the sex of the bird. If the correct species is not mentioned, the test could be delayed or the results might be incorrect.
This method is quite affordable. In DNA sexing, chromosome analysis only identifies the sex of a bird, but does not vouchsafe whether the parrot can successfully reproduce or not.
Surgical Sexing Surgical sexing is conducted by a vet at his clinic by the means of endoscopic surgery. The vet inserts a metal tube with a light attached called endoscope, into a small perforation made in the bird. The bird is made unconscious with local anesthesia beforehand.
Through surgical sexing the vet effectively identifies the sex and also figures out the sexual maturity of the parrot. Any anomaly in the bird or its potential breeding problems are also diagnosed.
The results of surgical sexing is quick, on the spot, very accurate and providing all the essential information required for future mating of the bird.
But this surgical procedure is somewhat taxing for the parrot as it is anaesthetized. The process is otherwise risk free and safe for your parrot if it is performed by a skillful vet.
In many cases, anesthesia injected to induce sleep, keeps the bird asleep for long and often causes vomiting. However, with advances in the field of research the fear of risks have been much reduced. Your pet bird can sit up within a few minutes after the anesthesia mask is removed.
But you should be cautious to keep young birds out of this process as it is not advisable for them to undergo surgeries at a very tender age.
A surgically sexed and therefore identified bird is tattooed under the wing. A female bird is marked under the left wing, and the male under the right one. More recently, vets have started using leg bands or microchips.
Blood Feather Testing (BFA)Tissues collected from the blood feathers of the parrot is cultured and processed for blood chromosome analysis. A few feathers of the parrot are pulled out if it lacks blood feathers, so that new ones can grow. This re-growth takes place in approximately two to three weeks.
The blood feathers thus obtained, are placed in a special tube, preserved and then packed for sending them to a lab where the chromosome is analyzed. The tissue is grown there (called culture) and examined under a microscope. The results of detection are available in about two weeks.
This method is absolutely safe and accurate, without any possible risks. But results take time to come out as the whole process of culturing and analyzing takes about four to five weeks. It is applicable to birds of all ages - young and adult.
It does not observe the condition of the sexual organs, it only sexes. So, chances of sexual abnormalities of your parrot or its breeding problems cannot be tracked and therefore, cannot be ruled out.
Fecal Analysis Fecal analysis involves collecting fresh fecal samples and then dispatching them to a lab for testing. The samples are tested for the male and female hormone levels that pass out along with the body wastes.
But this examination restricts the test only to sexually matured birds. Young birds cannot be tested as their hormone secretion is too little to be found in feces. Its accuracy depends upon proper collection of the samples and the health of the bird.
This method is more popular as it is safe and relatively inexpensive. Results are available in about one week.
So, if you are interested to find out whether you can name your parrot Maxim or Alia, you just have to pick up the method that suits your purpose perfectly. Surgical sexing is suggested if you want to go for breeding, while the others are just as accurate in determining the sex of your parrot.
If you have any more queries, don't hesitate to post your queries here. I'll try to answer to the best of my abilities and knowledge. Till then, think of really fitting names for your parrot after it's been sexed.
Happy parrot-naming!
Nathalie Roberts
August 10, 2006
[What's Squawking!] - Issue 4
She was not quite what you would call refined.She was not quite what you would call unrefined.
She was the kind of person that keeps a parrot. - Mark Twain
Is this your type? If yes, bringing home a new parrot will have no problems. But remember, you are bringing your parrot to an alien environment. So it might be tense and afraid. But how quickly your parrot will get used to its new environment depends primarily on your care and concern.
A well cared for and a properly socialized bird is likely to make a quick transition into becoming a member of your family, and is more often than not, healthier.
Bringing home a "new" parrot is always exciting....
In the beginning, keeping your parrot quarantined is a must until all tests have been completed and your vet gives an “OK” signal. During this, you should observe your new bird and start getting to know each other. You need to minimize your parrot's fear of the new environment.
It's best to keep its old cage during this time with its familiar toys and perches intact. This gives the parrot a sense of security and a homely feeling. For the same reason, continue with its old diet, even if it is not a well-balanced one.
A quiet place is the best for isolating your pet parrot. The bedroom is ideal, particularly for a shy or frightened parrot. This will save it from the hustle and bustle of daily family life. It will also get to know you better. However, do spend some time with it so that it does not feel lonely, bored and frustrated.
With a shy bird, remember to walk slowly while crossing the cage. Make the parrot aware of your presence by speaking softly before opening the door of the cage so that it knows you are there and is not shocked by your sudden appearance.
If your bird is unreasonably frightened, it will take a longer time to adjust to its new surroundings So provide special attention and care and be patient and consistent in your treatment.
An abandoned bird might be nervous. If it has lost all its dear ones, then a strange place is unsettling for it. So if you buy an abandoned bird, be sure that it finds itself in a stable environment. And be unusually patient with it. But if your bird is beyond home-care, you might need to consult a veterinarian frequently and regularly.
The cage is your beloved parrot's “home”....
So it must be provided with the best available conditions. This will also help you avoid problems related to parrot care in the future. Buy the cage from a reputed manufacturer only, so that your feathered friend does not run the risk of zinc and lead poisoning.
The size of the cage must depend on the size and nature of your bird. But be careful about bar spacing. Inadequate bar spacing may harm your parrot.
Adding a little greenery to the cage by placing a plant inside the cage always helps. Besides creating a natural environment, your parrot can hide behind its leaves when afraid. Once it knows it is safe, it will be able to adjust itself to its new home, sooner. It's best and safest to use vine type plastic plants, which do not contain foam. This reduces the risk of being poisoned, if ingested.
Location of the cage is very important...
Don't keep your bird's cage in the kitchen since fumes and aerosol sprays are lethal for your bird. Areas in the house with high human traffic can also pose a problem. Your bird might get distracted and frightened more often. It must also be kept away from doors and walkways.
The best place for the cage is the balcony. There, it will receive adequate amount of light, which is essential for your parrot's health. Darkness may make your parrot gloomy or aggressive. This may also lead to calcium deficiency and ultimately weak bones.
But if it was born and raised in a temperature-controlled environment, it will need time to acclimatize itself to its new environment. If placed indoors, provide full spectrum light paired with a Vitamin D3 supplement.
Placing your parrot in a communal space is also a good idea where it feels it is a part of the family. Also, the more time you can give it outside of its cage, the better adjusted it will be to its new surroundings.
However, at the end of the day, since you know your bird best, it's up to you to decide where you place it.
Ensuring its safety is numero uno...
Bringing home a new parrot is like bringing home a new baby. So, it's your responsibility to protect your best friend from injury. It is already frightened of its new environment and if it hurts itself, it will take longer to adjust.
Be sure to get safety latches on cabinet doors and special caps for electrical plugs when you bring your parrot home.
Be careful of open doors, open toilets, pots and pans on the stove (burned / boiled / drowned / covered in oil), deep standing water in kitchen sinks or pails, ceiling fans, electrical wires, and anything the bird can chew and ingest. These may cause hazard to them either through poisoning or damage (glass objects). Even cats are dangerous for birds, for they may spread diseases.
So clip your bird's wings. If you are unsure of the process, consult an avian vet.
Keep your new parrot away from...
Toxic plants - Most plants sold in stores use fertilizers and chemicals that are quite toxic if ingested. Potted fake plants use a painted foam base to simulate dirt, which is dangerous for your bird. Aerosols, Teflon and other non-stick cookware- Fumes from these can kill any species of parrot very quickly.Electrical cords - might turn lethal.Glass beads - Your parrot may break them with their beaks, wound themselves, even ingest small pieces of glass.Pens - Your parrot's voice may be lost forever if it swallows the ink used in pens. Halogen lamps- Place a grate above the bulb of such lamps. Otherwise, it may cause both a fire hazard and a health hazard to your new pet.A healthy, correct diet can add DECADES to your bird's life.
Being a new parrot owner, it's important for you to know how to ensure your parrot's health.
A varied diet largely made up of vegetables, fruits and whole grains will give you the healthiest bird.
Ask for a health guarantee when you buy a new parrot. Health conditions will vary depending upon the place from where you are buying your bird.
Observe closely the food in the bird's cage when you go to a pet store. If there is just a bowl of sunflower seeds and some semi-clean water, the bird might pose serious issues about food. A bird in an overcrowded cage might be diseased as owners don't have the space to keep babies from different breeders, separate.
Avoid buying from sellers who allow anyone and everyone to play with their baby birds, for you may bring home a diseased bird.
A bird in a closed aviary has little or no exposure to external contaminants and hence has a low probability of contracting a disease. But be careful, because a bird might seem healthy but may be a mute carrier of a disease.
Food to avoid...
Strictly avoid the following while feeding your new parrot:
Chocolate, coffee, and cocoa AvocadoHigh-salt foodJunk foodAlcoholic beveragesYour new parrot may remain healthy, active and happy, if proper stimulation is provided.
Toys are ideal stimulants...
So, toys are an integral part of a bird's life. They will also help your bird to stay occupied and happy, thereby allowing it to adjust itself better.
Choose your bird's toys carefully, according to the size and strength of your bird and the space available. If your bird is small, too big a toy might frighten as well as harm it. Safety must always be a primary concern while you buy your bird's toy. Also, change the toys on a regular basis to keep your parrot interested in them.
Your bird needs to play for mental stimulation...
Toys provide an outlet for your parrot's curiosity and also for its desire to chew. Constant activity will provide the bird with much-needed exercise to promote its health. A lazy, overweight bird is more likely to become ill and ultimately die.
Some of the bird's favorites...
Climbing structures or perches.Bells or noise-making toysMirrors Chew Toys, such as wood, or leatherRope toysEdible toysPlaypensNever forget that the new friend you have brought home is a living, breathing, thinking, and feeling creature. Any sort of cruelty will frighten and distance your new friend from you. So beware of your indifference and neglect!
Relationships are very necessary for its psychological well being...
Your parrot will take time to develop relationships. Do not force it into relationships with family members who are not willing to establish their own relationship with the bird. This will make your pet disinterested towards people and you'll end up having a gloomy, unsocial parrot. Expose the bird to friends, neighbors and knowledgeable bird keepers and persuade it to be civil to others.
Handle your bird gently, kindly and patiently...
Remember that it has come to an alien place. So trivial things tend to frighten it. If screamed at or punished, it will frighten your new friend and it will take a much longer to feel at home. Moreover, it can develop psychological problems and end up being timid, gloomy and depressed.
So cast yourself in a parental role rather than an authoritarian figure. A calm, kind-hearted approach always works best to have a pleasant, well-behaved lifetime companion. You may even reward your parrot whenever it exhibits a polite behavior. You must be absolutely willing to unconditionally accept your feathered kid for what it is, even if it does not talk.
Don't try to force it into learning words. A comfortable home for your parrot will provide it with a suitable environment to learn your language quickly. Never scream at its failure so as to frighten the bird and make it afraid to learn. The docility of a pet dog or cat is never the same as that of a parrot. So never make the mistake of comparing them.
Besides all, appoint a qualified vet right away for an overall checkup of your new parrot.
Firmer the foundation you create when the bird is young, the easier it will be to work with behavioral patterns, as the bird gets older.
So, all set to bring home a new parrot? Go ahead… take the plunge!
Happy blogging!
Nathalie Roberts
July 13, 2006
[What's Squawking!] - Issue 3
Planning to own a Parrot? As a Parrot lover and owner myself, I can assure you about one thing - it is simply a delight to have a colorful bird in your home! Bringing a pet Parrot home is like bringing a newborn home. They require your constant love, care and attention. It is important you choose your Parrot that suits your lifestyle and easily adjusts to your home environment.
So, before you commit yourself to owing a Parrot there are certain things you need to consider.
Some unavoidable hard facts you need to think over before you make a Parrot part of your life
Why do I need a pet Parrot? Is it for fun and entertainment? Is it a substitute for children? Or is it because I am too lonely? It is vital that you have a tête-à-tête with yourself.
What are the expenses involved? Parrot health and upbringing involves money like any other pet. It won’t cost you a fortune but there are expenditures you need to add in your monthly expenses. The cage, good diet, regular visits to avian vet, grooming, toys, medicines, etc., all cost a lot of money.Where should I buy a parrot from? Most people like to get their parrots from breeders, although there are some pet stores that specialize in birds only. I would stay away from any establishment or individual who does not have a thorough working knowledge of the birds and the various diets that are available. Under no condition should you get a bird from an individual or a store that didn't offer their birds a wide variety of foods.
Only go for breeders who keep parrots out of love. Avoid those who sell parrots only for business purposes. Look into the coops and the baby area. Talk to people who have bought parrots from the same breeder.
Is being a Parrot owner a full-time job? Whether you buy a bird as large as a Macaw or a smaller Parrot like a Cockatiel - you should make sure you are prepared to devote the time required for their care. Parrots are social creatures and you need to set aside some time for them. This enhances bonding between you and your parrot.Is my home should suitable to include a Parrot? Parrots need spacious living conditions. In the wild they roam around freely, from one branch to another. Therefore, even in captivity you need to give the freedom and space they crave for. There should be enough free space in your home to train and tame your Parrot when required. There should be sufficient room for a large cage.The kind of lifestyle I lead: If you are an avid traveler or work for long hours, it might create a few problems for your pet and you. You might fail to give the kind of attention Parrot needs. If you have kids, you need to see to it that they are mature enough to handle a new pet in their life. Am I ready to commit? Be ready to commit yourself to another living being. Pets tend to be more vulnerable since they can’t express themselves and their feelings and Parrots are no exceptions.Do not buy on impulse: Before you commit to buy or adopt a Parrot, think about the pros and cons that owning a Parrot entail you to. Hence, buying or adopting a Parrot out of whim or inspiration is always inadvisable. Research, research and research: Do as much research as possible. Don’t think it as a waste of time. Go through books, articles, websites, blog posts - everything that would give you proper Parrot information. It might take time but it is bound to prove fruitful. Being a tenant may matter: You should have a talk with your landlord if you live in a rented apartment or villa. He or she may not like the idea of having a bird around in his or her home. Your neighbors matter: If you are living in a neighborhood that loves peace and quiet, then reconsider your idea of buying or adopting a Parrot. Parrots, especially Macaws, can be extremely loud. You wouldn’t want your neighbors complaining, do you? When you have other pets in your home: During the first few days always keep your Parrot away from your other pets. Some dogs may get easily scared when they hear a Parrot’s window-splitting screams. And I would suggest you to keep your Parrot away in a higher perch if you own cats. Just as safety measures.Talk to experienced Parrot owners: Talk to people who have owned Parrots for years. Visit Humane Society And Animal Rescue Organizations: A few visits to your local human society will always prove beneficial. Watching pets there would help you list down both good and bad of owing a pet. Meeting your Parrot’s needs and necessities: Parrots require lot of care. Bathing, cage cleaning, feeding at regular intervals, wings clipping, exercising and playing are a must, if you want your Parrot to glow in health and be content. Your health matters: You need to have a stable health to own a Parrot since it needs lots of energy for upbringing. Training sessions can also get very tiring.Power of patience: Parrot upbringing requires loads of patience and love. You need to be extremely patient during training. You should be able to tolerate a Parrot if and when it misbehaves or does not budge at your commands. Do you fear being bitten? Parrots tend to bite in captivity. Almost anything can stimulate such behavior. Prepare yourself to be bitten, at least once or twice. Potty stains: Owning a bird means having potty stains around your home. No matter how much you potty train your Parrot, the first few weeks or months you will have to endure stains on your rugs and upholstery. Do you entertain guests often? It would take time for your Parrot to get used to new people. If you entertain guests regularly it might make your pet feel insecure and unsafe. This may trigger of undesirable behavior like screaming and biting. And a screaming and messy Parrot may set off your guests. It is always better to keep them away from each other for the first few weeks or even months. Parrot Longevity: We always want our pets to live as long as possible. Larger Parrots like Macaws live up to 60 to 70 years while smaller birds live up to 20 years. However, this life span may vary due to environmental conditions. Raising a Parrot entails effort but it’s simply worth it. Proper love, affection and care is the secret to owning a healthy and happy parrot (and a proud parrot owner).
Nathalie Roberts
July 3, 2006
[What's Squawking!] - Issue 2
Often referred to as "winged rainbows", Parrots are one of the most colorful members of the entire bird kingdom. They can be cute and cuddly, and sometimes, simply awe you with their majesty and elegance. Parrots need a lot of attention and love to become adorable pets. Once they bond with you, you will realize how precious they are as pets. Choose your parrot according to your lifestyle. Bringing a Parrot home is like bringing home a new born baby. It is not easy to understand parrot behaviour. Some pet parrots are very adjusting and will eat anything you serve. The bigger parrots are often stubborn and moody. They want your attention all the time and grow very loud otherwise.
Every parrot has its distinctive temperament and nature. No two parrots are alike. Parrot training is an art. A talking parrot can be hillarious and perform amazing tricks.
The main species are - Parrots, Macaws, Conures, Cockatoos, Cockatiels, Parakeets and Budgies.
Parrots are a very popular group of birds. Parrots are intelligent animals who depend on some degree of socialization and training. Different parrots have different needs. See that you cater to all these needs to have a healthy and happy Parrot in your house.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/parrots.html
Parrot or Parakeets (as they are known in the USA) are sensitive birds that need a lot of care and maintenance. 'Parakeet' means "small parrot". Their small size, bright colors, and cheerful disposition make them perfect pets. It is calming to listen to their quiet chattering and chirping. Some Parakeets even learn to talk.
The Quaker Parakeet is simply a visual delight. It is sheer joy to see and hear these highly intelligent members of the avian kingdom imitate human speech and learn tricks.
Good Parakeet behavior is a proof of excellent Parakeet training. As a Parakeet owner, Parakeet health should be numero uno among your worries. Parakeet illnesses are quite common and you need to be careful in dealing with them.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/parakeets.html
Parrotlets are absolute darlings! Good and patient Parrotlet training will show its results when you will no longer be embarrassed to call guests home.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/parrotlets.html
Macaws - If you are in need of some color in your life, a Macaw is the right companion for you. Macaws are flamboyant, colorful, intelligent and captivating birds. Their personalities are legendary. Because of their great beauty and engaging personalities, Macaws have been kept in captivity for centuries.
The blue and gold Macaw is just as sensational as the Hyacinth or the Scarlet or the Hahns. The Green Wing Macaw will simply take your breath away. For a healthy bundle of colors, the Macaw diet should be right. The old saying that the way into a man's heart is through his stomach applies to the secret to a healthy parrots.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/macaws.html
Cockatoos - After a long harsh day everyone deserves a sweet pill at home. Cockatoos as pets are the best rewards. Most are colored mainly in white, but others come in grays and pinks, blacks, and in the Palm's case, deep blue.
Well-raised Cockatoos are adorable; a hog for attention, a socialite , and just a pleasure to have around.
The Cockatoo behavior is so endearing you will miss home every minute you are out of it. Goffin, Moluccan and Umbrella Cockatoos are absolute winners. You can't resist falling in love with a rose breasted Cockatoo.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/cockatoos.html
Cockatiels as pets are darlings in the house. Cockatiels are ideal for the first time pet owner. They are characteristically happy and cheerful birds, never moody or demanding. They demand to be let on your shoulder for a ride, and make cute noises.
Cockatiel behavior can be groomed and almost perfected by good Cockatiel training. Cockatiel diseases are also quite common. Learn all tips for Cockatiel health maintenance before you bring one home.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/cockatiels.html
Conures are also a colorful bundle of feathers that win you with their playfulness and sweet dispositions. They definitely have a mind of their own.
In the wild Conures are friendly, peaceful birds and seldom fight with each other. Blue Crown Conures, Green Cheek Conure, Nanday Conure, Sun Conures and the Jendaya Conure are absolute visual delights.
Take time off for Conure care because they are lively but tender birds. They will return your love many times over. Conure training should be as good as possible, otherwise they tend to become just as unruly as ill-behaved children.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/conures.html
Lovebirds are meant to be loved and cared for. In fact, you can't resist falling in love with them. African Lovebirds are the cutest things on earth. However, they tend to become moody and irritating if they miss proper care.
A pet Lovebird is a thing to be cherished as a prized possession. Lovebirds fill up your life with love and harmony. Bring one home to feel the difference.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/lovebirds.html
Budgies, as is evident from the name itself, make wonderful playmates and, sometimes, even soulmates. Each has its distinctive personality. Some Budgies may be sensitive while others might get into mischief at every opportunity. Its popularity is gained mainly by its amazing powers of mimicry, and its antics are very amusing. They are one of the sweetest living beings on earth. They make your life worth living.
Find out more:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/budgies.html
This is not an exhaustive list of parrots. It only attempts to show your way into the parrot kingdom. Enter this world to discover colors and beauty that Mother Nature has packed in these wonderful, little bodies.
Happy Blogging...
Nathalie Roberts
June 17, 2006
[What's Squawking!] - Issue 1
Parrots are a very popular group of birds. Their colourful patterns and cute mannerisms, including picking things up with their feet and climbing with their bills, endears them to us all. No wonder Parrots are such favorite pets. The smallest Parrot is probably the Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot from Papua New Guinea. The largest is the Hyacinth Macaw from S. America. Lories and Lorikeets, Cockatoos and Cockatiel, Macaws, Lovebirds, Conures, Short-tailed Parakeets, Amazons and Senegal are some examples of the different kinds of Parrots that beautify our earth.Find out more about the Parrot Family:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/parrotsspecies.html
Parrots are intelligent animals who depend on some degree of socialization and will not be good pets unless they are taught and patterned to be good pets. Good training is therefore vital to make these Parrots bond with you. Feed your Parrots a variety of shapes, colors, textures, and sizes of natural foods. Quality proteins, Vitamin A rich veggies, wholegrains and carbohydrates are absolute yummies with Parrots.
To bond with your Parrots better, understanding the intelligence and needs, both physical and psychological, is very important. Different Parrots have different needs. See that you cater to all these needs to have a healthy and happy Parrot in your house. Parrots are one species of birds who can be very well-trained.
Parrot Species
All Parrot species are brightly colored with a few exceptions. Some Parrot species are small, cuddly and cute. Others are bigger and grander than their smaller relations. The most common Parrot species are green in color and make wonderful pets. They are usually small in size and have amazing talking abilities.
There are some Parrot species that are multi-colored. They come in bright blue, yellow, green, white and mixtures of two or more of these colors. They are often nicknamed 'winged rainbows'. Some of these Parrot species are wild while some are docile in nature. Some make wonderful pets while some are too independent to be bound down by humans. Some Parrot species are as dependent on us as our children would be. They love company and love to mimic human voices.
Almost all Parrot species eat fruits, vegetables, chicken and a lot of seeds. Most Parrot species tend to become moody and begin to pluck their feathers if they are not in the right state of mind or if they are unhealthy.
All Parrot species can be grouped under the following heads:
Parrots are a very popular group of birds. Parrots are intelligent animals who depend on some degree of socialization and will not be good pets unless they are taught and patterned to be good pets.
Macaws are flamboyant, colorful, intelligent and captivating birds. However, like ill-trained children, macaws can be a major embarrassment if they are not well trained.
Conures in the wild are friendly, peaceful birds and seldom fight with each other. Conures are known for their sweet dispositions and playfulness. They definitely have a mind of their own.
Cockatoos make wonderful pets because of their sweet nature. Cockatoos love to be cuddled and bond very easily with their human owners.
Parakeets have as many variations of their breed as there are varieties of their color. 'Parakeets' means "Small Parrots".
Lovebirds are meant to be, well you know what, loved and loved hard. In fact, it is very difficult to resist falling in love with them.
Parrotlets as is evident from the name itself, are bigger personalities in even smaller packages. Parrotlets win you over simply by their size and amenable disposition.
Cockatiels are ideal for the first time pet owner. They are characteristically happy and cheerful birds, never moody or demanding.
Budgies are native green and yellow birds of Australia. The word "budgie" is short for Budgerigar. Budgies make wonderful pets because of their relatively gentle, gregarious and entertaining personalities.
Parrots are one of the best pets in the world. Pet Parrots provide a lot of entertainment and they bond with humans just as they would with their flock.
Find out more about the Parrot Family:http://www.parrotsecrets.com/parrotsspecies.html
Parrot Behavior
Parrot behaviour varies as much as mine would from yours. Some problems in Parrot behaviour include biting, screaming and feather plucking. Each problem in Parrot behaviour has a specific reason. Some Parrots may develop phobias. As a Parrot owner for many years, I think the best way to react to Parrot behaviour problems is to try and understand the thought processes of these highly intelligent birds.
Just like a new baby, helping your baby Parrot to settle down in a new home helps to ease Parrot behaviour problems. Use the same method for an adult Parrot when it is shifted to a new surrounding. There are many factors that can affect Parrot behaviour. The size and location of the cage, boredom, insufficient exercise and deprivation may lead to severe Parrot behaviour problems. The best way to tackle Parrot behaviour is to train and tame your Parrots so that they never complain!
Parrot Training
Parrots are nature's pets. They are honed down to adjust in human company. Parrot training and taming are essential. Parrot training is an art. It demands a lot of patience and skill. Parrot training can do wonders to your bird and you.
You can have hilarious, happy and mischievous Parrots as a result of Parrot training. Parrot training can remove behavioural problems and make your Parrot friendly and whacky!
Pet Parrots can be trained to talk and perform amazing tricks. However, it is not easy to train pet Parrots. They are intelligent, graceful and often moody birds.
A talking Parrot is an asset and a lovely companion for both the young and old. All Parrots don't talk. Some talk a lot and some are relatively quiet. A talking Parrot begins by mimicking human sounds and other domestic noises. Then it goes on to imitating speech.
It is a delight to own a talking Parrot. They are master imitators. Be careful so that your talking Parrot does not tell your mother-in-law what you think of her!
Happy blogging...
Nathalie Roberts
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