Go For A BIRD Instead

Pet Birds - Photo by Solaika19 

Many families entertain the idea of getting a pet at one time or another. Sometimes it is the children that insist that their lives will not be complete without a friendly pet to have fun with. Other times it is the parents who suggest that adding a family pet would bring focus and responsibility to their children. Regardless of who wants the pet most, it is true that adding a pet to many families is a source of fun, learning and family bonding. Most families immediately think that they can choose between getting a cat or a dog simply because those are the most popular pets to have. Before you run out and purchase the perfect kitten or puppy, consider choosing a bird to be your family pet instead.   

Perhaps many people think that owning a bird is reserved for the wild at heart or certainly for those living in a tropical climate. You'd be surprised, however, to learn that a wide variety of people in almost every climate in the world are proud bird owners.      

Feel a little unsure? Take some time to learn about the different kinds of birds that might be suitable pets for you and your family. Visiting a local pet store can be a great place to begin gaining knowledge. Don't be afraid to ask the store workers any questions you have about owning a bird or about the differences between varieties of birds. Learn as much as you can before you make your final choice.      

Think about the ability of your family to care for a pet and then only choose a bird that you could really care for and enjoy. One kind of bird might require more attention than you can give while another variety of bird might be perfect to fit your family's busy schedule. The worst thing you can do is to bring home a bird that is unsuitable for your family. No one will be happy with a bird that needs to be cared for by the hour and that makes loud noises throughout the night. Consider all of these details carefully.

If you decide to choose a bird as your first or next family pet, take the time to educate your entire family on the bird. After you have taken the time to learn, teach your family important facts about the bird and about the needs the bird will have when it becomes a part of your family. Be honest from the beginning about the serious responsibility and privilege that having a pet is. Especially your children need to have a proper understanding that a pet bird will not be all fun and games. 

Choosing a bird for a family pet can be a unique and fun way to bring an animal into your home. Many birds are easy to maintain and can bring hours of laughter and fun into your home.

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When You Choose a COCKATOO, Pick the Bird That Selects You

Photo by Ozzy Delaney

One belief pet owners across the world share in common are: "When choosing a bird, pick a bird that selects you". It is believed that this bird will be cheerful, inquisitive and will readily come to you.

And before you buy a Cockatoo, make sure you know what you are getting into. Unlike other pets, "cockatoos require a lot of time and attention". They will also expect you to interact with them often.

This makes it all the more essential that your pet and you are compatible with each other!

Cockatiels

The first in the list is the Cockatiels. Cockatiels are considered the most popular pet of the cockatoo species all over the world. These gentle and friendly birds make great pets. They aren't moody and demanding like other cockatoo species. They can, therefore, be a child's first pet.

If brought home when young (8 weeks and above), they can be trained to talk, as well as perform tricks such as back flips and rolling over. If hand-fed as a chick, they will quickly settle in their new home. They love having an audience and will keep you amused all the time. These birds are amazing fliers. So make sure you keep their wings well clipped.

But at the same time, they should not be confined in the cage all times. Let them out for some time. Just make sure all windows and doors are shut, fans switched off and electrical appliances like stoves and irons are not running while they are outside the cage.

Umbrella Cockatoo

The Umbrella Cockatoo is a very popular pet. They are gentle, affectionate and will charm you from the moment you set your eyes on them. They get very attached to their owners. They love to please and you can teach your pet many tricks. Although they aren't good talkers, you can train them to dance to the music. They need a lot of physical attention and like a human baby, they need to be hugged, petted and played with. They aren't noisy birds and can be naughty one minute and quiet the next.

Galah Cockatoo

Galahs are commonly kept pets and even Galahs caught in the wild make good pets. They are affectionate and friendly. Galahs are usually pale pink and dark pink. They make good pets. They are independent birds and not needy like other species. They are happy to play on their own and require less time outside the cage.

Galahs make wonderful pets especially when hand-raised. They are extroverted, affectionate, friendly playful and intelligent. And like other cockatoos need to be kept entertained and occupied at all times. They are quick learners and can be trained to perform several tricks.

Often you see them in bird shows, where they fly through several hoops. Galahs are good talkers and males usually have better-talking ability than females. Their talking ability, however, isn't on par with that of Sulphur-crested Cockatoos or the Corellas. So, if you're a workaholic, then Galahs might be the right choice for you!

Goffin's Cockatoos

The Goffin's Cockatoo is the smallest among the cockatoo species. Goffin's Cockatoos are gregarious, inquisitive and carefree birds. They are fun loving and make extremely intelligent pets. Many owners claim that their personality resembles that of dogs. They are active birds that need to be kept occupied at all times. They are more independent than other cockatoo species and don't mind spending a little time on their own. They don't get spoilt easily and if trained properly, they make fabulous pets. They love physical contact and love having their heads scratched. You can train them to imitate human speech but they can be very loud and are not recommended as pets for apartment dwellers.

Palm Cockatoo

The Palm Cockatoo is the largest of the different species of cockatoos. It is a striking black bird with red cheek patches. Palm Cockatoos are gentle, intelligent and love company. They make unique and wonderful pets. They are not as noisy as some of the other species of Cockatoos. In fact, their breeding call is the only loud and noisy sound they make. Palm Cockatoos are much sought after pets, but in reality, kept only in small numbers in mostly private collections.

Moluccan Cockatoo

Contrary to Little Corellas and Goffins, this species is one of the largest of the cockatoo family. The birds are pink to salmon pink with an attractive crest of orange. They make wonderful pets because they are normally very intelligent, friendly and affectionate. They are quite adept at talking and performing several tricks.

Little Corella

As true as the name implies, Little Corellas are one of the smaller cockatoo species. Little Corellas are playful, intelligent and even-tempered birds. They have been kept as pets for many years. These birds can be trained to talk and perform a variety of tricks. They also love to dance and chew. Like all cockatoos, they become very attached to their owners and need to be kept busy.

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Sulphur-crested Cockatoos are affectionate and friendly. Although they have the tendency to become a one-person pet, they make excellent companions. They are more independent than most cockatoo species and are very intelligent. They are quite adept at talking and performing tricks. I hope all these information comes in handy to you when you select your pet cockatoo.

The above is an excerpt from the free newsletter on "All About Cockatoos" published by Geostar Publishing & Services LLC. Jessica Harrison Geostar Publishing & Services LLC 6423, Woodbine Court, St. Louis, Missouri, 63109, USA Article Source: EzineArticles

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CANARY BIRDS Have Been Ideal Pets for Centuries

Canary Bird - Photo by steve p2008 

The value of canary birds as pets was first recognized by the Spaniards in the 15th century. Spain took ownership of the Canary Islands early in the 1400s and noticed the beautiful singing birds. As a side note, the birds became known as canaries because they came from the Canary Islands. Many people think that the islands got the name because there are so many canaries there. But it is the other way around. Canaries are also found in the Azores and Madeira.

The early Spanish settlers and explorers knew that the pretty yellow birds with their melodic sounds would make perfect pets. They also discovered that only the male canaries sing. Clever businessmen that they were, they controlled the market by creating a monopoly on male canaries. As with any controlled product, the price of male canaries was high enough that they were considered pets only for the wealthy.

As with any successful business venture, soon there were copycats and canary birds became available in Italy and Germany and from there, they spread through the rest of Europe. At the same time breeders began refining the breed of canary birds so that the most appealing songsters, those with the prettiest colors, and the best body structure were bred for their attributes.

The domestic canary birds that are available today are different from the wild canaries that the Spanish first brought home for sale due to the long selective breeding process. They are beautiful pets and can bring joy into your home. They live up to 10 years. They are easy to feed as they like human food. It is however a better idea to feed them food designed for their breed. It has more of the full range of nutrients that they need. They also need a lot of water. They have fast metabolism and can get dangerously dehydrated quickly.

If you wanted to breed your own canary birds, they are well suited to raising their family in captivity. All you really need is one pair of birds sharing a cage. Just make sure that they have enough room to live together in the cage. A good size is 2 feet by 4 feet. This gives them space to move around. Canaries are not always in breeding mode. Typically they are fertile when the days are 12 hours long. In many places this eliminates winter and summer when the days are either shorter or longer than 12 hours.

While they are small and delicate in appearance, canaries are fairly hardy. There is one thing that can be hard on them and that is rapid changes in the environment. A draft can be very dangerous to your canary and a sudden blast of chilly air can kill a canary. A rule of thumb is if the breeze makes a candle flicker, then it is too drafty for a canary to live in that spot. Canary birds do like sunlight but not direct sunlight that will overheat them.

By Kevin Highfill - Article Source: EzineArticles

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CANARIES Are Social Creatures

Photo by steve p2008 

The Canaries are, by their very nature incredibly social creatures. Whether in the wild or in captivity, they prefer to spend their time with others of their kind as opposed to spending a great deal of time in solitary confinement.

Ideally, canaries should be kept in pairs (breeding pairs) but if you only have a small handful of birds, you should be able to house them all in the same aviary, assuming that the males don't begin acting aggressively with one another or the hens in the cage.

If you're maintaining a larger, more professional-type aviary, it's a good idea to keep the ratio of females to males markedly higher to avoid any fighting or "unfriendly" competition. While it's very rare for fighting canaries to kill one another, that doesn't mean that illnesses and injuries won't result.

If you're just starting out in the canary breeding and raising sphere, you should also be aware that you can keep canaries with other breeds of birds, like finches.

However, before you introduce a new bird, keep in mind that it's important to opt for a soft-billed variety, as hook-beaked birds can inflict SERIOUS damage on your canaries. You should also keep in mind that if you're maintaining a breeding aviary, you should never house more than two different species of birds inside to make life easier on EVERYONE involved.

Keep a close eye on your canary to ensure that he or she is showing all of the signs of happiness and contentment. If you begin to suspect that your canary could benefit from a little extra toys or interaction, whatever you do - don't procrastinate.

When your canary is dying from boredom, they very well could be LITERALLY dying from boredom...

Birds are much, much smarter than they're often given credit for, and this inherent intelligence demands some type of physical and mental stimulation to maintain optimal health and well-being.

While your children may complain that they're dying of boredom, when it comes to your canary, this is actually a very real risk...

Bored or anxious canaries are prone to a whole host of illnesses and issues, ranging from plucking their own feathers, ceasing to sing, lack of interest in breeding and more... Just as no man is an island, canaries aren't loners either. Make sure that you keep this point in mind when you're establishing your cages and aviaries and you'll be off to a great success!

Until next time, wishing you all the health and happiness with your pet canaries:-)

By Arlo Demille - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Related articles

• CANARY BIRD - Serinus canaria

CANARY Breeding - Four Tips on Breeding CANARIES

Yellow-fronted Canary - Serinu mozambicus (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Canary breeding can be done for profit or mere enjoyment of the new birds. If you want to breed your own, there are a few things you need to know. This article will give you a few tips on breeding canaries.

Diet

Before you try to breed the two, you need to start feeding them a rich diet. This will help give them more energy for the upcoming egg production and physical activity. It's best to feed the birds green vegetables, apples, and boiled eggs.

Fighting

One of the main problems you may experience when canary breeding is fighting. The male will sometimes clash with the female. The male's abuse may even become life-threatening. Therefore, make sure you keep an eye on things and separate the two if you have to. You can help prevent fighting by keeping the two birds in adjacent cages until they get used to each other.

Nest

You will need at least one nest for each pair of birds when breeding canaries. It may be a bit better if you provide two nests. The nest can be made from materials such as burlap, dryer lint, and shredded paper. Some birds can be a bit picky.

Eggs

Most hens lay five small blue eggs, while some can produce up to eight. A week or so after she starts to sit on the eggs, you should hold each one up to a light to check for signs of an embryo. If the eggs are clear after all this time, you should toss it out. Make sure that you always wash your hands before handling the eggs. Harmful substances can rub off on your hands and cause damage to any developing chicks through the eggshell.

By Jake D - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Breeding AFRICAN GREY PARROTS - A Guide For African Grey Breeders

Range map for (Psittacus erithacus) African Grey Parrot. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There are 2 species of African Grey parrot of interest to breeders.   The Timneh Parrot which is small and somewhat dark in colour and the Congo African Parrot, which is bigger than the Timneh and lighter in colour.

Breeding African grey parrots can prove to be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the entire procedure. You will need to gradually introduce your African grey parrot in a cage with another of the opposite sex, so as to give them enough time to get to know each other. 

African grey parrots need to become companions slowly, so do not try to force things as it will only lead to frustration. In the wild, the African greys choose a small area on a tree so as to breed; this means that you do not need to provide them with a large and open space in order to breed them successfully. They do however some privacy in order to breed, so a well hidden next box is essential.

Congo African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus erithacus) at a bird park in Singapore. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

You should buy a nest box which is large enough. They might not require an open space so as to breed, but they definitely need to be comfortable enough.  A nestbox which is at least twenty-five inches high and wide is ideal.  Boxes shaped as a capital L can work really well for them and is highly recommended for breeding. A bedding of wood shavings should be provided in the box, so as to keep both the bird and the eggs as safe as possible.

While breeding African grey parrots is not difficult with the right breeding stock and good husbandry, the Congo parrots are generally considered the easiest.   The Timneh, on the other hand, is a little more difficult to breed and since they are less popular and less common as pets are best left to experienced breeders.

If you decide to buy an African parrot for breeding, it is strongly recommended that you check accredited African grey breeders first. The birds should be medically tested by a vet - even a DNA test can be done - so as to determine the reproductive ability and maturity of the particular bird. Potential African grey breeders are also advised to use some scientifically proven methods so as to determine the sex of the bird, rather than base their assumption on morphological characteristics, such as the size of beaks.

While breeding African grey parrots you will see that the eggs need hatching for a month; in most cases, the birds lay a clutch of two to five eggs. African grey breeders should be very careful when removing the chicks, because the African grey can become very aggressive and attacking so as to protect the newborns, and can give a nasty bite with their sharp and powerful beaks.

By David G Barry - Article Source: EzineArticles

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BIRD BREEDS

Bronze-winged Parrot; a pet parrot standing on a perch - Photo: Wikimedia

Birds have always inspired man's imagination. The ability to fly has always instigated man to watch these ethereal species from close. Close to the heels of dogs birds were one of the primary animals that were domesticated by early man. They were a source of entertainment for young queens, messengers for royal officials and meat and eggs for banquets. Bird breeds differ from one another as some have the ability to sing, some have the ability to talk by mimicking human voice while some have the brilliant colouration of plumage or manifest a majestic body size. The following are the exotic bird breeds that have earned popularity among bird breeders.

Exotic Bird Breeds

African Mourning Dove (Streptopelia decipiens), Samburu(Kenya) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

African Mourning Dove - The African mourning dove is a large stocky pigeon and can grow up to 31 cms in height. The back wings and the tail of the bird is light brown in appearance, the head is grey, and underparts are pink and the belly to be pale grey. It has a distinctive hind neckband with a white border. The bird appears to be blackish while flying due to its black flight feathers. The patch around the eyes is red in colour. Unlike other breeds of doves, they feed in groups and can easily mingle with other species of doves.

A young Gouldian Finch with the beginnings of bright adult plumage (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Lady Gouldian Finch - This bird is native to Australia. Though the bird is available in pet stores it is considered to be endangered in its own natural habitat Australia. Both male and female species of the bird are almost similar in looks but the male is out to be more brightly coloured. They bond to form a pair throughout their lifetime. The courtship dance of the male is worth watching.

Bronze Wing Pionus - Though this species is quite tough to rear in captivity the bronze wing Pionus are regarded as excellent pets. They are gentle and charming in nature. Even though they are not so playful creature and even do not like to be patted on the back this bird can turn out to offer a lifelong companionship to its owner.

The Umbrella Cockatoo - The umbrella cockatoo has white plumage with brown or black eyes. This is especially found in the islands of Indonesia. The underside colour of the plumage is lemon yellow and the wings flash when the birds are in flight. The bird is so named as it has the habit of extending its chest when surprised. The chest then takes the shape of an umbrella.

By Jack Morrison Jack Morrison is a pet care expert. He has in-depth knowledge on how to take care of pets efficiently.  Article Source: EzineArticles

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GREEN-THIGHED PARROT - Pionites leucogaster

Green-Thighed Parrot - Pionites leucogaster

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So Many Kinds of PET BIRDS - How to Choose the Right One

A pet juvenile male Eclectus Parrot perching on a woman's shoulder in Brighton, Victoria, Australia.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When you first go bird shopping, you might be astonished at the kinds of pet birds available. The surprise might be more dramatic if you just drop into a pet store and browse the pet birds for sale. Some of them can be quite charming and some might even nod and say hello to you. This is a little guide to what you need to know before taking on the responsibility of a pet bird.

First of all, if you do encounter a bird you like on your trip through the store, do not decide on the spot to buy the bird. Do a little research first. Given the kinds of pet birds available, research can help you choose just the kind of bird that will suit your personality, lifestyle, and household. When looking at the types of bird pets available, there are many angles from which to approach the selection of your new pet.

You can look at the choice from the size perspective. The rule of thumb here is that the bigger the bird, the more effort you will have to expand. The bigger birds live longer--sometimes up to 100 years--and demand more space, attention, toys, and training. Sometimes the training might even feel reversed as the macaw or African Grey parrot or some other brightly coloured creature uses its beak to try to teach you what it wants from you.

Another way to look at the kind of bird pet you would enjoy is to think about the kind of bird behaviour that would appeal to you. Some love to get out of the cage and snuggle up with you and others don't like being touched. Birds also have different food requirements. For some, it is just bird seed. For others, it is birdseed plus grains, fruit and vegetables.

It would take a lot of space to detail all the types of bird pets that are available. Here are three generic steps to take before pulling out your wallet to pay for the new bird pet:

1. Ask around about the reputation of the pet store where you intend to buy your pet. Not all pet stores are created equal. You want one with a guaranteed good reputation.

2. Look at the array of birds that are available and get a feeling for the kind of bird that you think you would like.

3. Research that type of bird's habits, personality, and care and feeding requirements.

When thinking about the kinds of pet birds that might be best for you, be cautious. Since this pet bird could last your lifetime, be sure you think twice before you take your pet bird into your life.

By Kevin Highfill - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Fact Sheet: GREEN-CHEEKED CONURE - Pyrrhura molinae

(Original title: Rainforest Birds - Green-Cheeked Conure)

Green-cheeked Conure perching in an aviary at Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, Malaysia.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Bird Name:

Green-cheeked Conure

Latin Name:

Pyrrhura molinae

Status:

Least Concern

Scientific Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Psittaciformes

Family: Psittacidae

Genus: Pyrrhura

Species: P. molinae

General Information:

Another common name for the Green-cheeked Conure is the Green-cheeked Parakeet. This small parrot is common in captivity, where it's known for being playful and intelligent. In the wild, this social species occurs in central South America where it often forms large flocks in the treetops. There are five subspecies.

Physical Description:

This bird is usually between 9 - 10 inches in length and weighs close to 70 g. Its coloration is primarily green. It has a reddish-brown forehead and its nape is brownish green. The cheeks are a bright green and there are dull green patches on the sides of the neck, throat and upper breast. The tail is maroon, wing feathers have a bluish tinge and the breast is grayish. There is purple on the belly and the beak and ear covers are brown. Sexes are similar, and it is difficult to determine males from females. The juveniles have duller plumage with darker irises. They also exhibit less of the maroon coloration on the abdomen.

Diet:

A bird feeds on a diet of fruits, such as bananas and raisins, and seeds, such as sunflower and hemp seeds.

Habitat:

This parrot ranges from west central and south Mato Grosso, Brazil, through portions of northern and eastern Bolivia, and down to northwestern Argentina. It inhabits forests and other woodlands, congregating in large flocks.

Reproduction:

The mating season for the Green-cheeked Conure begins in February and several matings are possible. Females lay 4 - 6 eggs per clutch and average an incubation period of about 24 days.

By Tony Mandarich - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Raising MALLARD DUCKS - 5 Vital Tips For Beginners

Mallard Duck Hen - Photo: Maxpixel

Ducks are the commonly found pets and social birds too. They can be easily raised by human beings. Though these pretty birds fear the human, it is quite easy to raise the ducklings. Pets are just like our children, they understand the language of love and compassion. So, if you are thinking of raising Mallard ducks, then some tips given below can be quite useful.

1. Caging

Cages are very important for the raising Mallard ducks. It is always good to raise more than one duckling since these social pets love the company of others. Initially, these cute pets can be stored in cages with some material that can be the source of warmth for them. In the absence of their mother duck, these ducklings need to grow in the similar and natural warmth, isn't it? The ducklings with their mother do not need any heat source since the mother takes complete care of them.

As the ducklings are raised, one can find them moving around in the time span of 2 to 3 weeks. These birds generally look for warmth in the beginning. After they grow to ducks within 4 to 5 weeks, one can see them moving in any type of environment, either warm or cold. The cage for one duck is generally larger in size that measures around 10 sq. ft.

2. Water

Raising Mallard ducks cannot be done without sufficient water. If ducklings are alone, then, little water is supplied for them. Ducklings without their mother cannot swim because they cannot produce the oil for their features that help them to swim. Due to this, we need to be careful because these cute pets might drown. When they are with their mother, the duck oils the feathers for her ducklings and then they can swim easily. For the ducks, ponds are the best for swimming. Even when they can leave without them, it is always good to have an artificial pond to keep the ducks happy.

3. Food

Ducklings love to have fresh greens and weeds. Game bird starter feed is also good for them. Once they grow to ducks in 5 weeks, one can change their feed to the game bird grower feed. You can also try a special duck feeder that can be easily available in the pet stores that provide the feed for raising Mallard ducks. Drinking water can be stored in a large clean bowl for the ducks.

4. Shelter

Shelter plays very important role in raising Mallard ducks. Shelter protects them from the heat, rain, snow, and cold. A wooden shelter can be easily made for the comfort of your beloved pets.

5. Special Care

The health and happiness of the ducks can give them a longer life. Your ducks need special care and for that, some tips below can be useful in raising Mallard ducks.

1. One needs to take them out of the pen daily.

2. After that they are free searching for food, flying and swimming

3. Keep a watch on your ducks to protect them from predators

4. Cleaning their cage is very important

5. Make sure that the floor for the ducks is not too hard for them to walk

So, finally, your pets need a lot of food, water, shelter, and care too. Well, raising Mallard ducks is quite interesting and can be done will complete care of the pets.

By Mary Louise Are you looking for more tips on raising Peking ducks or Mallard ducks? If you think you still need guidance on where to start, consulting existing duck owners and farmers will certainly be a big help. If you would like to learn more about raising ducks correctly, click here: howtoraiseducks.com Article Source: EzineArticles

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LOVEBIRD Aviary - The Place Where You Can Get Exquisite Lovebirds

Fischer's Lovebird in an aviary. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Because of the attractiveness of lovebirds, there is no wonder why more people are making them household pets. Aviaries are the most ideal places to visit and be in awe of the loveliness of the African birds. A comprehensive lovebird aviary is where you will find and select the species that you prefer to keep and raise. With the popularity of lovebirds, there are plentiful aviary and breeder sites you can go to.

* Howard Voren is an aviary that focuses on the most uncommon birds in captivity; say for instance, the brilliant amazons in blue mutation.

* Connieís Bird Nest is a lovebird aviary featuring macaws, caiques, lovebirds, amazons and Congo African greys. The site includes a message board, useful information and articles, shopping options, links, and tips with regards to breeding birds which bird enthusiast will find very useful.

* Another bird breeder is Aqua Oceans that is found in New Jersey and specializes in the eye-ring species of lovebirds as well as eclectus, greys and amazons. So, if you are looking for such characteristics and you are around this area, this is the best place to check out.

* The Artemis Aviaries is a lovebird aviary that also gives readers interesting information pieces about hand-feeding pellets and formula and review of ingredients for feeding lovebirds.

* Bucksí African Skies is another aviary in New Jersey that mainly focuses in the African lovebirds species.

* Feather Tree is also a reliable lovebird aviary. It also specializes in the Pyrrhura Conures along with several beautiful mutations of lovebirds that you may find interesting and fitting to the lovebirds that you are looking for.

* Parrot Parrot is a breeder in California as well as an aviary of lovebird species like the peachfaced lovebird, Fischer's lovebird and the Abyssinian lovebird. Many lovebirds enthusiast had found their new pet in here.

A lovebird aviary differs from one another. Some of them can focus on a certain breed or mutation while others are extensive enough to provide numerous species. Definitely, lovebirds are wonderful feathered creatures. You can obtain ideas about the behavior and nature of lovebirds among aviaries.

When bringing home a lovebird from a lovebird aviary, it is essential to provide a suitable cage. They do not require a very big space, just a sufficient cage for your pet to move around. Make them feel as if they are still freely roaming in the aviary where they came from.

By Elise Gonzalez Elise Gonzalez is a lovebird expert. Do You Want To Know How To Take Care Of Your Lovebird & Build Great Friendship With Your Bird? Discover more information about Lovebird Aviary, visit Lovebird Care. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Want to Breed GEESE? Learn the Most Popular GOOSE BREEDS Today!

Two Chinese geese in Kyoto, Japan. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Did you know that geese make up a huge percentage - around twenty, in fact - of the poultry industry? This is the reason why many farmers these days are eager to know every bit of information they can about every goose breeding, but most especially the popular ones.

If you're interested in breeding geese, whether your intentions are related to profit-making or investing in a new hobby, it would do you well to find out and learn more about goose and breeding or the different kinds of goose types out there. Of course, since there are a great number of types to choose from, we'll only talk about the ones that are considered the most popular breeds of today. Finding the right type for you is important because it will help you decide which one best suits your purpose as well as your lifestyle, allowing you to make the necessary arrangements beforehand.

The most common types as far as goose breeding are about ten in number, but in this article, we'll only talk about four, and these are the following breeds: the Chinese goose, the Emden goose, the African goose, and of course the Toulouse goose. Now, to get to know each of these goose breeding types, sit back in your most comfortable chair and read on.

The Emden goose breed is one of the most prolific breeders. Not only that, they are also the most suitable for crossing, which is a great feature whether you're looking to profit from breeding goose or not. Feathers of Emden geese are also highly in demand because of their white color and silky feel. The Chinese breed, however, is better at laying eggs. Members of this breed are also considered better sitters and foragers, and they weigh more and mature earlier. This makes this particular goose breeding ideal for profit-making purposes.

The African breed is unique-looking, owing to its tall stature, dark beak, brown plumage, and that unmistakable knob on its head. Members of this goose breeding are good layers, although their average weight is smaller than those of the Chinese and Emden breeds.

And last but definitely not the least, the Toulouse goose is considered the best of the heavy breeds, with a typical gander weight landing at around 12kg and a typical goose weight at around 9kg. However, members of this lack in foraging skills. Usually, they are bred with other goose types, particularly the Emden, to produce a goose breeding with better fleshing qualities.

By Andrew Grey If you would like to learn more about goose breeding and raising geese, please visit: http://www.howtoraisegeese.com Article Source: EzineArticles

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BUDGIES HEALTH - What to do if the bird stays bristled up

Green Budgie - Photo by Tambako the Jaguar 

Your budgies have been bristled up for several days, shivers, its beaks grows and curves..... 

The reason for your budgie's problem is the lack of vitamins and minerals. 

As a beginning take it to the vet to cut the growths and to file away the curved beak. Don't try to do this yourself - it should be executed by a specialist. 

The next step is to buy a crayon with vitamins and minerals for it from the zoo shop. You also have to provide pine-tree twigs for it to gnaw. When there is no crayon you can replace it with chalk. It is absolutely necessary for the birds. 

However, you have to estimate whether the bristling up and the shivering doesn't come because of having a cold. This can be estimated when examining it's faecal. If the bird has a cold they will be either very dark or very light than normal. If these symptoms exist you should apply the following treatment: 

Take one capsule tetraulean / from the chemist's /. Open it. Take some powder from the capsule to the point of a small knife. Dissolve this very small dose of 1-2 drops of water. After that open the beak and pour the liquid carefully inside with a dropper. 

The treatment should be applied for 3 days most. After that, the faecal will obtain their normal kind. 

Be careful not to overdose the tetraulean. 

Except for that even if the parrot has no cold you should compulsory buy vitamins for it from the zoo shop. Another reason for this condition of the feathery creature can be starvation because with a deformed beak it is most probable that the bird can't eat millet. And only vegetables and fruit is not enough. 

Give bread to your budgies as they like it a lot. 

Do not keep them in a very cold or very hot place. Let the temperature be normal. Budgies don't like humidity and draughts. This could also be a reason for deformations. And if it is possible let them fly at least a little

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4 Steps to Buying a PARAKEET PARROT Birdcage

Photo  by Mary-Lynn 

Parakeet parrots are one of the most popular and sought-after types of parrots. When many people speak about owning a pet parrot, they think of a parakeet. Parakeets are small to medium in size and have long tails. If you're considering a parakeet parrot as a pet, there are some important factors to consider when purchasing their birdcage to ensure happy and healthy birds.

You'll want to consider the following when selecting a parakeet's birdcage:

Birdcage Size

Generally speaking, parakeet parrots can be smaller than most other types of parrots, but they should still live in a decent size birdcage no smaller than 24" x 16" x 16". Your pet parakeets will require space to spread their wings. You'll also need to consider your birds' wingspan when purchasing a new cage. It is bad for your parakeet to have their wings or tail brush against the cage when they try to extend their wings. This has both a physical and mental effect on the birds over time. It is best to purchase the largest birdcage you can afford and have space for in your home.

Due to the fact that parakeet parrots enjoy nesting with one another, you can keep two or three parakeets in a larger cage. Some parakeet cages have many water and feeding bowls to accommodate for many parakeets. It is, however, important to not have parakeets living with other kinds of parrots to prevent behavioral issues.

Birdcage Shape

It is important to remember that parakeets enjoy and benefit more from cages which are wider than taller since parakeet parrots tend to fly back and forth more than up and down. If your cage is too tall, the space in the upper part of the cage can be wasted, but if you install perches or branches in the cage, this can encourage climbing. Having a wide cage in which one side is against the wall makes the parakeet most comfortable. Interestingly enough, experts have said that a round cage isn't ideal for parakeets.

Birdcage Bard

Since parakeets tend to be a smaller variety of parrots, you'll want bars on your birdcage that are not spaced more than 0.5" apart. If the spaces are any wider, your parakeet will be tempted to push their head though with the potential of getting stuck. Some experts say that it is recommended that the parakeet parrot birdcage have one or two cage walls that have horizontal bars instead of vertical bars to give them the opportunity to climb.

Birdcage Material

It has been said that stainless steel birdcages are the best material for your parakeet, along with wrought iron and cold rolled steel. The reason stainless steel is so popular is that it is easy to maintain and tends to resist rust. Certain materials can be toxic for your parakeet parrots such as lead, galvanized steel, zinc, and brass. Since parakeets enjoy exploring and chewing, they could have the potential to ingest metal or have metal flakes get in their eyes. You'll want to seek out a birdcage that is naturally treated rather than ones with too many chemicals added.

Taking these four tips to heart when searching for and purchasing your new parakeet parrot birdcage will help you make the safe and most comforting decision for your bird.

By Jessica Peloski - Article Source: EzineArticles

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