Parrots are often the first birds that spring to mind when you think of pet birds. The types of bird that are included under the group name of parrots are: parrots, cockatoos, amazons, macaws, conures, lovebirds, parakeets, cockatiels and budgerigars. Many of the parrot species make interesting pets due to their ability to mimic speech. They are very intelligent and will amaze you with the size of their vocabulary and the tricks that they are able to master. The parrot group make lovely, affectionate pets with strong personalities. The different parrot species have the most splendid coloration. This, along with their fun personalities, makes them wonderful pet birds.

Some of the larger parrot species are quite expensive and therefore owners may wish to take out pet bird insurance. Pet bird insurance will cover death due to illness or accident, theft of the bird, public liabilities and equipment related to the bird, obviously depending on the type of insurance you select.

Finches are also popular pet birds. They come in many varieties and their lovely colors will complement any aviary. The most beautiful is the Gouldian finch, with its bright colors. You will gain much pleasure from watching these sweet little birds flitting around their enclosure. Canaries are also much loved pets due to their beautiful song and also come in many varieties.

Another group of pet birds are the softbills, which do well when kept in large aviaries. These include the white-eyes, touracos, robins, and mynahs.

People on plots may own pet chickens, geese, ducks and even peacocks. Pet chickens are often used to produce eggs, however their owners form quite an attachment to them and they are unlikely to land up on the dinner table.

It is best to carefully research the species you are interested in before purchasing it so as to make sure that you will be able to meet its needs. Visit your local pet shop where staff are likely to be able to advise you, while supplying you with the necessary equipment and food to keep your pet bird healthy and happy.

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Many bird enthusiasts around the world have found creating outdoor aviaries a truly rewarding experience. A variety of birds can be kept in an outdoor bird aviary and it is a great option if you are interested in breeding and rearing. There are however, numerous considerations when it comes to keeping an aviary and it can be a lot of work.

The first thing to consider is what bird species you are planning on keeping in your aviary. Are you interested in keeping more than one species? You will require a larger area if you are keen on keeping several species so as to prevent conflict and unnecessary stress. You must also be careful only to mix social species and avoid keeping hookbills with passerines. Many pet bird species will cope in an aviary. However, some species may require sources of warmth and lighting during winter months.

Where should an aviary be situated? Choose a level area that is sheltered and easily seen from your house. You may also consider placing the aviary somewhere where your neighbors will not be disturbed, otherwise you may get complaints. Good drainage is also important for your aviary. It is advisable to install a safety porch entrance way, so as to prevent any of your precious birds from escaping when you enter and exit the aviary. A separate sheltered room that the birds can access at any time is also a good idea. Concrete makes a good floor surface as it is easy to clean and disinfect. The size of your aviary will be determined by the size and number of the birds you will be keeping. For example, if you want to keep finches and canaries you need about 1 or 2 cubic feet for each individual and 6″ to 12″ of perching space for each bird.

After your aviary structure is up you can begin adding aviary equipment, such as hoppers, mineral blocks, seed trays, perches and so forth. Keep several drinkers and feed cups or trays in the aviary so as to reduce competition. Don’t place any trays or hoppers under perches as they will be messed on. Aviary plants can add a nice touch. Be careful what plants you get and ensure none are toxic for birds. Shrubs can be used by smaller birds for nesting. Annuals give the aviary a splash of color and draw yummy insects for the birds to devour. It’s a good idea to keep the plants potted so they can be removed whilst the aviary is being cleaned.

Indeed, keeping an outdoor bird aviary can be very pleasurable and a great way to enjoy the delightful antics of birds.

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Coal miners took advantage of birds’ sensitive lungs. They brought caged canaries into the mine shaft. If the canary appeared sick, or even died, the miners knew there were dangerous gasses in the air, such as methane or carbon monoxide. The miners could then escape the poisoned air before they felt the effects themselves.

Keep the coal miners in mind when you breathe the air in your home. Even though you may not be affected by fumes, they could be deadly to your feathered pet. Dangerous fumes include:

• Airborne cleaning agents
• Pesticides
• Smoke
• Paint fumes
• Oven-cleaners
• Fumes from overheated non-stick pans

Be especially aware of fumes in the kitchen. The kitchen is the most dangerous room in the house for your bird. The self-cleaning mode on some ovens releases fumes that can quickly kill pet birds in the house, and fumes from overheated pans with non-stick surfaces, including some frying pans, cookie sheets, and waffle irons.

To keep your bird safe, remove them from the house when using pesticides or strong- cleaning agents. Keep them away from your kitchen. Keep your bird’s area well ventilated, or use air filters.

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During the next 500 years, many European breeders made their living breeding and selling canaries. For example, canaries became the chief industry of the Harz region of Germany. Breeders soon developed different kinds of canary. By the 18th century, there were twenty-nine varieties.

Many of these varieties are available today, for pets. Some are bred for their colors. Others were developed for their shape, such as crested canaries. A third group of canaries were bred specifically to enhance their voices. For instance, the Roller Canary is known for its rolling songs.

Canary breeders often take their birds to shows, where judges rate the birds by their song or appearance. These shows take place in October and November, when the breeders’ new male canaries are most likely to sing.

Today, canaries make ideal, easy pets for busy households. They don’t require constant attention, like some parrots and cockatiels. They live happily in cages, provided the cage is large enough. Toys in their cage can prevent boredom. A happy male canary can live and sing for up to 20 years.

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