PARROT Species - An Overview of the Different Types of PARROT (Part I of II)

A male Cockatiel. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In terms of taxonomy (the scientific classification of animals) parrots belong to the Psittaciformes order, within which there are two families: Cacatuidae and Psittacidae. The Cacatuidae family consists only of the Cockatoo, with all other parrots belonging to the Psittacidae family. However, taxonomy aside, we tend to group parrots under the following headings:

• Budgies
• Cockatiels
• Cockatoos
• Conures
• Macaws
• Parakeets
• Parrotlets
• Parrots
• Lovebirds

In looking at these groupings we will explore beyond the more well-known examples of parrot such as the Meyers Parrot and Amazon Blue Fronted Parrot.

Budgies

The budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) is also referred to as the parakeet, shell parakeet, budgie, and common pet parakeet. However, it is not correct to refer to the budgie using the broader classification of parakeet as the budgie is, in fact, a particular type of small parrot native to Australia. These little birds grow to around 7 inches and a weight of up to 40 grams. They have a green body with black and yellow markings on their back and wings. They have distinctive yellow heads with blue beaks. In captivity, they have been cross-bred to create small parrots with an amazing array of colors.

Cockatiels

The Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus), also referred to as the Quarrion and the Weiro is native to the aridest areas in Australia. Many variations of cockatiel plumage have been bred in captivity, but the standard is a grey cockatiel, with some white markings on the edge of each wing, orange markings around the ears, and a yellow head. One interesting thing about cockatiels is that they mimic sounds such as whistling far more easily than voices, and when frightened they hiss like a 

snake.

Cockatoos

There are 21 species of cockatoo, one of which is the cockatiel described above. The cockatiel, as the smallest and most popular of the cockatoos, is usually described separately. The cockatoo belongs to the Cacatidae family. This bird hails from a diverse geography, which includes Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Cockatoos are very popular and loving pets and are revered for their skills in mimicry. Some cockatoos face extinction due to illegal trade, and it is recommended that you only consider buying a captive bred specimen.

Conures

Conures is not a scientific classification but are used to group together a number of small and medium sized parrots. Some of the common characteristics of this group are that they are small with long tails and strong beaks. Some conures are Aratinga, Carolina Parakeet, Enicognathus, Gold-Capped Conure, Golden-plumed Conure, Golden Conure. Jenday Conure, Nanday Conure, Patagonian Conure, Pyrrhura, and the Yellow-Eared Conure.

By Danny Oakes Danny Oakes is a keen aviculturist who has written detailed care sheets for the Meyers Parrot and for the Amazon Blue Fronted Parrot. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Teaching Your PARROT to Talk

Are you talking to me - Photo   by      jinterwas

Introduction

Having talking parrots as pets go way back to at least the time of Ancient Greeks. By the time of the Roman Empire, it was even more common and courses were given to teach people how to get their birds to mimic human speech. The material covered in this article is much more effective than those courses of ancient times and the training myths of ancient times have been omitted. One of the craziest myths was that the parrot should be placed in a completely dark room during training.

As the following joke suggests, having a talking bird is one of the reasons that people purchase parrots.

One day a man went to an auction. While there, he bid on an exotic parrot. He really wanted this bird, so he got caught up in the bidding. He kept on bidding but kept getting outbid, so he bid higher and higher and higher. Finally, after he bid way more than he intended, he won the bid - the fine bird was finally his!

As he was paying for the parrot, he said to the Auctioneer, "I sure hope this parrot can talk. I would hate to have paid this much for it, only to find out that he can't talk!" "Don't worry", said the Auctioneer, "He can talk. Who do you think kept bidding against you?"

If you're interested in having a talking bird, this introductory article is for you. This article will cover which birds are good "talkers" and will cover some techniques for encouraging your bird to be a "talker". Whether parrots mimic or communicate using human speech has been fodder for debate for a long time. The Alex Studies by Dr. Pepperberg goes into great detail regarding this subject. Alex is a Congo African Grey Parrot that Dr. Pepperberg studied extensively. Some consider her studies, training techniques, and discoveries the foundation of modern avian cognitive understanding. If you are interested in the cognitive abilities of parrots and their "speech" capabilities, I recommend that you read her book. Though technical at times, I'm sure that you will find it a fascinating book. If you ever find yourself looking at your parrot and wondering what it is thinking or how much it understands then check out the links at the end of this article to her book.

Mimicking, Speaking, or Communicating

Let's start with some ground rules for this article and a quick disclaimer. The terms used in this article may not be universally accepted. The terms that I use in this article are defined just to delineate the different categories of "Talking". The word "Talking" has several meanings and depending on your level of technicality it also has several different implications. In my opinion, there are three basic categories of "talking". The first and lowest level is "Mimicking". This is simply the echoing of a word. In this case, the parrot doesn't associate the word with any object or action. A common example is when a parrot vocalizes "pretty bird". Unless it's a really vain parrot or there's another pretty bird in the area than the parrot, in this case, is just vocalizing something that it has heard. The term "talking" in this article usually refers to mimicking but may also refer to "Speaking" or "Communicating" as defined below.

The second category of "talking" is "Speaking". For the purposes of this article, it means interacting appropriately with human speech. An example would be the parrot responding with its name when it is prompted with the question "What is your name?" At first glance, this appears to be communication and it may be but it doesn't prove communication. The parrot may have simply been conditioned to respond with its name when it hears this question. The parrot's responsive behavior suggests a higher level of "speech" beyond simply mimicking. Since it is responding appropriately and not just mimicking, it is referred to as "speaking" in this article. This is much harder to teach than mimicking. One technique to teach "speaking" is to form the question using a boring tone and then provide the response in a more interesting tone. For example, you may say "How are you doing today?" in a quiet calm tone than say "SUPER DUPER HOW ARE YOU?" in a louder more interesting tone. The parrot is more likely to begin saying "SUPER DUPER HOW ARE YOU?" in response to your question "How are you doing today"" just because it is more appealing. This is at least "mimicking" and maybe "speaking" depending on who you ask.

The third category is "Communicating". In this case, the parrot actually has an understanding of its vocalizations. This is sometimes referred to as cognitive speech. An example of this would be to show the parrot a red key that it has never seen before and ask the parrot "What color is this?" If the parrot responds with "red" then it is communicating. There is a subtle difference between "Speaking" and "Communicating". For example, if the parrot is conditioned to say "red" when you show it a particular red key then it doesn't necessarily have an understanding of red. It may just be conditioned to respond with "red" when it sees that particular object. Whereas, "communication" uses an unknown object so the parrots could not have been conditioned to respond with a particular word when presented with the object. As mentioned before, The Alex Studies by Dr. Pepperberg is an excellent source of information on this topic. You can find a link at the end of this article to her book.

What Birds Talk?

So what birds talk? As the buyer in the above joke correctly suggests, not all parrots talk. This is true of different species and different birds within a species. For example, African Grey Parrots are known to be excellent talkers but that doesn't mean that all African Grey Parrots will talk. Hopefully, your only reason for purchasing a parrot is not because it can talk. Parrots have so much more to offer than talking and you would be cheating yourself and your parrot if that is your only reason for getting a parrot. Talking should be considered a bonus and not a requirement. However, if "talking" is important, the only way to make sure that you are getting a parrot that will talk is to purchase a parrot that already talks. Having said that, there are certain species that are known to be more inclined to be good talkers. Here is a list of some parrot most likely to "talk" with the better-known groups in parenthesis.

• African Grey
• Mynah (Greater hill)
• Amazons (Yellow-naped, Yellow-fronted, Double Yellow-headed, Blue-headed)
• Budgerigars
• Macaws (Blue and Gold)
• Cockatoos (Bare-eyed)
• Cockatiels

As mentioned previously, not all birds in the list will talk and not all birds that talk are on this list. The order of the list is a good approximation from best talkers (African Grey) down to not-the-best talkers. This list isn't perfect and is just a basic guide with no guarantees. For example, there are some Cockatiels that talk better than some African Greys.

Three General Training Techniques

So you have a parrot that is capable of talking and you want to teach it to talk. This section will cover three basic techniques. These three techniques are Audio Recordings, Parent-Parrot teaching, and Modeling. The first two methods use useful for teaching your parrot to mimic. The second and third methods can be useful for teaching your parrot to "speak". And finally, the third method is most useful for teaching your parrot to communicate.

Technique #1 - Audio Recordings

The first technique is Audio Recordings. This may be an Audio CD or tape that you purchase or create that is capable of looping over and over. You can purchase these on the Internet or create them yourself with your home computer. Most people use this method for long periods of time when the parrot is alone. But does this technique work? The jury is still out on this one. Some people with some parrots have had some success with this method while others have not had success with this method. It is certainly not the best method to use but in some cases, it can be effective. This is probably the most common technique used to teach the classic Andy Griffin Theme Song. However, the same thing played over and over will quickly become very boring. Parrots just like people will eventually tune out the boring stuff in their environment. For this reason, it is recommended that you keep the sessions short. Sessions should be about fifteen-minute sessions 2 or 3 times a day. This technique is used to teach "mimicking" as defined earlier. This is a cheap and easy way to teach your parrot to mimic. As with most things in life that are cheap and easy don't be surprised if it doesn't work.

Technique #2 - Parent-Parrot Teaching

The second technique is Parent-Parrot teaching. This is where you talk to your parrot. This method is effective because it provides your parrot with a very important need. That need is to bond with its "flock" and to communicate with it's "flock". In most cases, you'll find that the more you talk and communicate with your parrot, the more it will respond and talk back. Most parrots are very social and thrive on this kind of attention. This method will never get boring to your parrot and can be fun for you and your parrot. If properly rewarded for talking, your bird will happily talk and talk and talk. You should talk to your parrot while feeding, cleaning, doing dishes, preparing meals, watching TV, walking through the house, etc, etc, etc. You can maximize this method by using your speech in context. If you're putting food in the bowl then tell your parrot that you're giving it food. If you're cleaning the cage then tell your parrot that you are cleaning the cage. This method is useful for teaching "mimicking" and "speaking" as defined earlier.

Phrases that indicate mimicking are phrases such as "want to peanut?" or "Watcha doing?" In these cases, it is just mimicking things that it has heard you vocalize. This method can also be used to teach communication as defined earlier. In this case, you should use the same word in several different contexts. Examples would be "Do you want this peanut?", "Here's a peanut", "This is a good peanut", "is that peanut good?" Initially, your parrot will mimic you and use the word out of context much like a child learning to speak. You can take the mimicking to the speaking level by simply correcting the parrot-like you would a child. By doing this, you will eventually teach the parrot to use the word in context. For example, it may begin to vocalize "this is a good peanut" when you give it a peanut. This technique can be used for teaching your parrot "mimicking" and "speaking" as defined earlier. This technique can also be used to a lesser degree to teach "speaking". The third and final technique (Modeling) is more effective for teaching "speaking" and "communication".

Technique #3 - Modeling

The third technique is "Modeling". This is the method that Dr. Pepperberg discusses in her book The Alex Studies. This method involves two trainers (usually two humans) and the parrot. Though not practical for most of us, it can be very effective if you have the means to use this technique. The parrot takes turns being the "trainee" with the other human. An example would be to have the Trainer human and the trainee human demonstrate what is required while the parrot watches. For example, the Trainer may ask the trainee "what color is this" while holding up an object. The trainee will respond with "blue" and the trainer will respond with "no, the color is red". The trainer will repeat the question and the trainee will respond with "red" and the trainer will reward the trainee for the correct answer. The reward may be verbal ("good girl") or the reward may be a treat. Then the parrot will assume the role of the trainee while the human trainee watches and the process repeated. This method has been shown to be very effective in teaching birds, other animals, and humans with learning disabilities. This modeling technique was used to teach Alex the Congo African Grey for Dr. Pepperberg's studies. This method is effective at teaching "mimicking", "speaking", and "communication" as defined earlier.

As you may guess, the second technique is the most common technique used to teach pet parrots how to talk. This technique is more effective than using Audio Recordings and it only requires one "trainer" compared to the third technique. More importantly, the second technique provides the perfect opportunity for the Parent to bond with the Parrot. This is a win-win technique because bonding is essential to the parrot's well being and it provides a means to teach the parrot to talk. The next section covers some miscellaneous Tips, Do's and Don'ts. Most directly apply to the second technique of Parent-Parrot teaching but also apply to the other techniques.

Tips, Do's and Don'ts

• Be patient.
• Make your vocalizations interesting.
• Have fun during talking training sessions.
• Keep training sessions short (10-15 minutes)
• Talk, Talk, Talk to your parrot.
• Talk in context to your parrot.
• Use diction, drama, and inflection to make your speech more interesting.
• Phrase your talk from the parrot's perspective. "Give me a peanut" instead of "Do you want a peanut?"
• Reward your parrot when it talks with treats, praise, and/or attention.
• Start when your parrot is young (though not necessary).
• Communicate while out of site to simulate contact calls.
• Sing songs to your parrot.
• Tell stories to your parrot.
• Read stories to your parrot.
• Repeat phrases at appropriate times. For example "I want water" when giving fresh water.
• Start with words and work up to phrases.
• Pronounce words clearly.
• Don't say words that you don't want to be repeated.
• Create verbal cues such as saying "Good Morning" in the morning.
• Place the cage where your parrot hears family communication.
• Don't teach whistling before teaching talk.
• Use interesting-sounding words.
• For some reason, words with "tt" seem to be favorites such as "pretty" or "kitty".
• Use the word in different phrases "This is a peanut", "Do you want a peanut", "I like peanuts"
• Don't put the parrot in a covered cage during training. This myth goes back to ancient Greek times.
• Do speech training early in the morning and at dusk if possible when most parrots are very talkative.

Summary

If you've ever heard a parrot joke, most likely it involves a talking parrot. The parrot's ability to "talk" has captured our imagination for thousands of years. I'm sure that you will agree (if you own a parrot) that its ability to talk is just one of the many characteristics that make parrots fascinating companions. A lot of people purchase a parrot for their ability to talk but eventually learn that with or without its ability to talk, it is an awesome pet and companion.

Hopefully, this introduction to teaching your parrot to talk has been useful. Check out some of the book links below if you're interested in learning more. "The Pleasure of Their Company" by Bonnie Munro Doane and The Alex Studies by Dr. Pepperberg are two good sources to start with. You will be amazed by the Dr. Pepperberg's successes and fascinated with her findings. Though technical at times and not necessarily a required reading for all parrot owners it is a fascinating book.

By David B Weber - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Bird Watching Tips for Beginners

Bird Watching Hide (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Bird watching can be a very fun and interesting activity once you are familiar with the thing that you need to know when doing it. The first thing that you need to familiarize yourself with bird watching is identifying the bird that you will watch. 

This very task is quite challenging because it is not easy to identify them especially when they are so many feet away from the ground. Since birds are energetic and active animals, you need a clear and quick eye to be able to see as many details possible in such as a very short period of time. 

Aside from being too far away from you, other problems that you might encounter—especially if you are a first-time bird watcher—is the dim light shaded by trees, the glint of sunlight that can affect your sight, and the hidden places where birds go to play. So, when you are into bird watching, it is always best to have a general knowledge of bird's attitudes and observe them carefully. You might not name them properly the first time but you definitely can the next time if you pay proper attention to observing them.  

The following are just of the helpful tips that can help you in your very first bird watching session: 

- Always keep on eye on one bird. Bird watching is more effective if one uses a binocular. When you are bird watching, try to spot only one bird that catches your attention. Once you have seen one, never take your eyes off it because it might fly to a place where you cannot see it.

In most bird watching centers, beginners are given a field guide in a form of a booklet or brochure so they can identify the bird once they have seen one. Once you know what is it, take time to observe its physical details as well as its behaviors and mannerisms. Make sure that you observe the bird's movements, markings, feeding habits, songs, color, and size so you can easily identify it the next time you see it. 

- Make sure that you listen intently to the bird's calls and song. Although listening for a bird's song is easy, it doesn’t stay long in a person's memory. What you should do is to listen intently when the bird calls or sings and play the bird's song in your mind repetitively. Listening to a bird's call and the song is important because it can help you identify the bird even without seeing it. 

- Take time to estimate the bird's shape and general size. The average shape and size of the bird will give you a huge clue in finding out the family it came from. In bird watching, make sure that you assess its overall appearance and take note of its approximate size and shape. Once you can tell from the size and shape of the bird what kind is it, then you are doing good. 

- Pay attention to the bill characteristics and facial markings of the bird in sight. This is one of the hardest things to do because the average of almost all birds is small. They also keep on moving so it will be hard to take note any unique markings on their faces. It is also equally hard to take note of characteristics of its bills because most birds keep on pecking all the time.

To get these details, spot a bird that doesn’t fly around that much. Once you found one, start observing it head by looking for any distinguishing hue patches or color strips. These can be present in their eye lines, crowns, napes, and arcs or in the rings. 

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KOOKABURRA - Australian Bird

Kookaburra laughing bird (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Native to Australia and New Zealand the Kookaburra bird is a large bird (28-42 cm in length and 11-17 inches in height). The Kookaburra was discovered by the English in the mid 18th century. They have a distinct call which sounds like a loud echoing human laughter, these birds are good-natured if not hysterical. You generally will not find this bird by water but they can be found in a humid forest surrounding where food is easily accessible.

Kookaburra is carnivorous, their diet consists of lizards, snakes, insects, and raw meat, The Kookaburra is a territorial bird and they can often be found living with partially grown chicks from the previous mating season. Wild Kookaburras will eat baby birds, snakes, insects, small reptiles and other birds such as finches.

Even though these birds are found only in a relatively small part of the world their unique sound can be found in the soundtrack "jungle sound", they are also used in movies and television as well as being seen in certain Disney park attractions. Also, you can find these birds in popular video games such as Battle toads and World of Warcraft.

They can also be found on postage stamps, the first postage stamp with a Kookaburra was issued as a 6 penny stamp issued in 1914, and also a 38c Austrian stamp with a pair of Kookaburra on it was issued around 1990. Also back in 1990 Australia dedicated a coin to this bird.

By Maira S Sarfraz And if you want to read more about the cricket team of the native country of this bird, visit http://cricketfreaks.contentcreatorz.com. Are you a Cricket Freak? If yes, hello, am also one! http://cricketfreaks.contentcreatorz.com/ shows my passion for cricket. Please visit my blog if you want to read good and interesting stuff about cricket. After all, we are all cricket freaks! Article Source: EzineArticles

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The Best BIRD BINOCULARS

Birdwatchers in Central Park, New York City (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

To get the best out of bird watching you want decent bird binoculars. Birding can be somewhat ruined when you can't see the birds you are trying to view with the level of clarity and detail that you would want to. An unclear image means it is hard to tell the difference between one bird and the next with some bird binoculars not really helping you see much more than you can see with the naked eye.

The quality of the optics in bird binoculars is exceptionally important if you want to ensure maximum enjoyment out of the sport. In recent years the cost of bird binoculars with high-quality lenses has decreased and with the wider availability of affordable quality, binoculars have come to an increased interest in bird watching.

There are some great 8x32 and 8x42 bird binoculars around and the Canon 12x36 IS binoculars are increasing in popularity as they offer the option of high powered binos without the distortion that is experienced when high magnification non IS binoculars are handheld.

At the top end of the market, you have some serious bird binoculars such as the Swarovski 8.5x42 EL's or the Leica Ultravid 32 or 42 series. Some critics say that they aren't worth the price (at £1,000 +) but in reality, it really is a matter of opinion and it does depend on how serious you are about birding. As you head up the price range the added benefit between bird binoculars begins to decrease so it just depends on what value you place on certain extra features that make binos particularly special.

If you are looking at the top of the range check out the Leica Ultravid 8x42. The weight and balance is superb, you could use these for hours and they would still feel comfortable in your hand. As for the quality of the optics, just try them and see! If you can afford it they are well worth a look.

If you want something a bit cheaper then the Pentax DCF SP 8x43 or 8x32 make excellent bird binoculars. They come with phase-coated prisms and fully multi-coated lenses with a sophisticated optical design, they are waterproof, nitrogen filled and sealed and have a water repellent coating on all exposed lenses. A great buy at less than £400.

Steiner makes some brilliant bird binoculars such as the perfectly balanced 8x44 Steiner Discovery which comes with a comfortable balance system, high definition optics, Steiner Nano Environmental protection and fast close focus. Or, if you want something smaller and cheaper then the Steiner Wildlife Pro is an immensely popular bird binocular, particularly the mid-size 8x30 which has a wide field of view making it ideal for following fast moving objects.

Image stabilizing is an excellent feature to have for many applications. Some find the Canon 10x42 IS binoculars rather heavy at1030g with many birders opting for the more powerful but lighter and cheaper option of the 12x36's (660g but not waterproof and they don't have the L series lenses that are featured in the 10x42's).

Another great bird binocular is the Nikon High Grade, with advanced lens and prism construction which produces exceptionally clear, sharp images and excellent color reproduction. Every model is waterproof and is made with environmentally friendly materials. Prices start at around £300 up to around £1,000 (available in both full size and compact binoculars).

If you are looking for something in a lower price bracket then the Nikon Monarch is a popular choice, with multi-coated lenses, phase correction coated prisms, high eyepoint design with long eye relief (ideal for spectacle wearers) and lightweight body. They are waterproof, fog-free and shock resistant, all for around £200. Just don't compare them against the Swarovski or the Leica's!

By Terry Ross - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Try BIRDWATCHING - 6 Key Reasons People Are Flocking Into This Hobby

People birdwatching on the Barrier Island area of Indian River County.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Friendship, companionship and sheer pleasure, these are some of the benefits to be gained from the hobby of Birdwatching or Birding. In this article, I review six key reasons why birdwatching fascinates around 70 million Americans and countless more people around the world.

Fitness and health. Birdwatching promotes health and fitness in a number of ways. First is t

he simple advantage of being outdoors and breathing fresh air. Secondly, getting to good sites for birdwatching often involves walking or hiking and hill climbing, all good for the heart, lungs, and circulation. Another significant plus point is exposure to sunlight. This promotes the production of vitamin D. Due to our modern lifestyle; many of us are deficient in this essential vitamin which helps strengthen teeth and bones. Sunlight has also been shown to combat depression and help protect against disease.

Companionship. The public image of birdwatching is that of a solitary birdwatcher spending the day in the field then returning home to a lonely supper. As with any hobby, there are some people like that - but not many of us. The majority of birdwatchers are friendly, convivial folk who love to go out birding with each other. There are popular birdwatching clubs in just about every part of the world. Companionship plays a central part in the attraction of birdwatching.

Pleasure from nature. Birding brings us back in touch with a more natural way of life, one that we can lose sight of in our urban homes. We are struck by the vitality of nature, the rhythm of the changing seasons and the beauty of the landscape. We can see and feel all of this firsthand, not via images on a TV screen.

Family. Many family members go birdwatching in pairs or larger groups. A father teaching his son or a grandfather showing his grandson the tricks to tracking down that rare bird. Or showing him the basics of identifying and naming our more common visitors. All of this goes to strengthen the bond between generations and knits families more closely together.

Finding that elusive bird. Wired into our genes, particularly those of men, is the desire to hunt. This gives us the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of finding our prey. Birdwatching is the civilized expression of these feelings. It provides us with the emotional charge while preserving, indeed prizing, life. It is no coincidence that many birdwatchers strongly support efforts to save the environment.

Friendship. Valuable friendships are made from striking up conversations with fellow birdwatchers. We already have our hobby in common so breaking the ice is much easier than with other people. Keeping in touch with news of sightings, our successes and failures and our plans all help to maintain and develop our birdwatching friendships.

In summary, there really are lots of positive reasons to be a birdwatcher. If you already are one, congratulations on being part of our family. If you are thinking about becoming a birdwatcher, you can start small. Observe your local birds; begin to identify them and their songs. Above all, start now - you'll find birdwatching to be an exciting and rewarding hobby.

By Graham Fielding - Article Source: EzineArticles

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PARROT FOOD Which Types to Feed Your Pet

A juvenile Regent Parrot (Polytelis anthopeplus) at the Bird Walk
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There was a time when parrot food was only about seeds. This really is so simply because seed products are thought to contain the majority of vitamins and minerals that are essential for bird development. Seeds are likewise the most typical element in a bird's diet plan. The commercially created ones usually might have the balance and various types that a normal bird will need. 

But these times, seeds aren't the sole ones that are being given to these avian species. As bird breeders grow in knowledge and expertise in coping with their pets, they are now a lot more mindful of the numerous outcomes of diverse foods to their pet parrots. The pellet is yet another choice apart from seeds. Some would probably declare that pellets are actually healthier for a bird's diet plan than seeds. One of the explanations may be that pellets give ideal nutrients and the entire nugget is digestible. Compared to the seed that leaves the hull behind, the pellet is completely edible and therefore there is absolutely no waste product that comes about along the way.

Another food alternative that bird breeders have is to get organic and natural. Whatever this entails is offering food item that is natural or fresh or homemade. This might possibly include fruits, pasta, vegetables and some vitamins and mineral supplements. But bird breeders should always understand that just before offering their bird any of these or picking out this sort of eating plan, an overall consultation with a veterinarian should be done first. A veterinarian can really help pick which combination of a range of food would have the correct quantity and right form of nutrition the pet bird should have.

Some of the concerns for this would be that table food or "human food" that is fed to birds may not be acceptable for them if they possess an excessive amount of sodium or if the size is not suitable for the bird. Small sizes should be taken into account when serving these, especially when giving nuts. A justification that this kind of feeding is looked at is for variation. In reality, avian species also get tired of having to eat the same thing again and again. Not to mention that they may not be receiving adequate and assorted nutrients from the same food. Bear this always in mind when giving parrot food. Furthermore, do not ignore the need to consult with a veterinarian first before making a choice which diet program to pick.

It's well known that we now have food sorts which are good and helpful for your bird's health and fitness. In contrast, there are also food varieties which should be prevented at all costs. Samples of these would be foods that are too salty or too sweet. Those with alcohol and caffeine should also be prevented. Also included in this list are garlic and onions. 

Curry powder is a no-no. Mushrooms are not motivated too because some forms may contain a fungus that can detrimental to your bird's health. As well as leaves that are found in tomatoes. Avocados in their entirety are also unhealthy for your bird as they can cause cardiac arrest. Stay away also from plants such as amaryllis, shamrock, azaleas, lantana, and daffodil among a good many others. These types of plants could bring different kinds of health issues that can range from gastrointestinal problems to depression.

Certainly, picking out which parrot food to feed your bird is something that is not done flippantly. Nonetheless just do bear in mind that what is healthy for you may also be healthy for him but consider so when you have got the consent of the veterinarian. You would know that you are doing a fantastic job at taking care of your pet if his feathers are gleaming, his beak is smooth and solid, his stool is well formed and his eyes are clear and glowing.

About The Author by Paul Nedrich Of course, you want to give only the best for your beloved birds! From parrot food to cockatiels cages. But where to buy one? Especially for first-time buyers? Get quality products and services only from www.bird-supplies.net/ and have your bird sing a happier tune!

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Going to BIRD SHOWS Can Save You Money on PARROT Supplies

Photo by Balaji Dutt

As an artist who used to advertise in pet shows, I became familiar with bird breeders and those who own a variety of parrots. Not being a bird owner myself, I enjoyed others' pets, and learned a thing or two about how to save money on supplies. Here are a few tips to lessen your bills for cages, toys and other important bird-related items.

Each city in the U.S. and possibly worldwide, has bird fanciers clubs of different kinds. Some are more broad in scope like avian societies, bird clubs, or bird lovers associations. Others are more specific, like conure clubs, cockatoo fanciers, etc. Usually, you can find out where your local clubs are by contacting places found on the internet, local pet stores, or yellow pages. Call or write the contact number for each club and ask when their shows are, and if they are open to the public. The bigger the show, the better. Many bird clubs or societies have at least one big show, sometimes two, each year. There are even bigger shows such as yearly gatherings of multiple bird clubs at shows usually held in major cities, usually called national shows, congresses or other names. If these shows are open to the public, they are where you will usually see a more diverse variety of exhibitors.

The best day to go to a show is Sunday, normally the last day. This is when there may be auctions (where supplies tend to be drastically low in price) and vendors begin to mark down their wares as the day goes on, to prevent having to pack it all when they leave. At the very end, prices are really marked down at some booths. With seed, toys and cages being pretty expensive normally, it pays to wait and get those discounts.

Going to a basic, local bird show, you will encounter bird breeders selling hand-fed babies and other parrots or hookbills of different kinds. Also, you will find bird supply vendors, usually selling cages, toys, feed, and more. Also, there is usually an artist or two around, selling t-shirts or other handmade items with birds as themes. I used to see bird magazine vendors at different shows, as well, selling their publications at tremendous discounts. Birds are on display, it's fun to see the showcase of beautiful parrots, usually strutting their stuff for their audience (especially cockatoos, lovely birds who are definitely attention-lovers, in my opinion).

Even for those of us without birds as pets, pet shows are entertaining, and worth going to. It's fun for the whole family, there are refreshment stands there, and bird breeders or owners enjoy talking to others about their latest bird babies. Who knows, you may even decide to take the plunge and get your own parrot. If I didn't have cats, I'd have a few myself. Take a chance, get involved and spend a day at an avian society event. You won't be sorry, and may even learn a thing or two about parrots and other birds. A great way to show the family a good time, and get to know some colorful and entertaining birds.

By Carolyn McFann Carolyn McFann is a scientific and nature illustrator, who owns Two Purring Cats Design Studio, which can be seen at: http://www.zazzle.com/twopurringcats Educated at the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, Carolyn is a seasoned, well-traveled artist and photographer. She has lived and worked in Cancun, Mexico for two years, among other interesting professional assignments in other countries. Clients include nature parks, museums, scientists, corporations and private owners. Her focus is on realistic, natural artwork and illustration through her agent and her website. She has been the subject of tv interviews, articles for newspapers and other popular media venues. Article Source: EzineArticles

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PALM COCKATOO - Probosciger aterrimus

Palm Cockatoo - Probosciger aterrimus

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Keeping Cockatiels in an Aviary

Cockatiel - Photo  by        Susanne Malsbender

Cockatiels are great aviary birds. They are very good-looking and do not squawk a lot or make a lot of noise.

When planning an aviary you will want to think about the construction intelligently. If your bird sanctuary outside does not place it too near the road because the cockatiels could get stolen.

Choose a sheltered location for your bird sanctuary. It must be shielded from the wind, and be in a reasonably sunny location with not too many trees that can shed leaves in the coop. Waste from wild birds in the trees may pollute your aviary, or sticks could fall away and damage the bird sanctuary.

A good place for an aviary is at the perimeter of a segment of grass, as using this method you can lie on the grass and take pleasure in watching the cockatiels. Be certain that the spot you select permits you to keep an eye on the birds from inside. You will then have the means to keep your eye on it for challenges like local community animals.

Providing your bird sanctuary is in a well-protected location you will discover you don't require much artificial lighting or heating. It's a beneficial move to always use natural light where you possibly can although some people like to make a visual show of the cockatiels in the aviary. Leaving space for an extension is additionally a great idea as you may wish to add more birds at a later date.

When you are deciding on the size of your aviary, you will have to decide whether you want a breeding pair, or just a whole lot of cockatiels together. For more birds, you will need a bigger aviary. Cockatiel birds will enjoy a flight of 3.6 m or 12 ft in length, though slightly less will be adequate if you are lacking space. The height of the bird sanctuary should not be under 1.8 m so that you can procure easy access to clean the cage and catch the birds whenever you need to without the danger of scratching yourself. If you are tall in height, make the cage very high.

The bird sanctuary width is not such an important factor but experts endorse you keep the bird sanctuary to around 90 cm square for every breeding pair in the aviary.

When you are designing your aviary, you will need to decide on a flooring covering. Grass and stones are both really unsuitable, as they are difficult to clean and can harbor germs and parasites. A concrete floor that is slanted will work well in an aviary, but be certain that it is smooth so that no puddles of water end up on the floor that go stale. Paving stones additionally work well, as long as they are somewhat slanted for excess water to empty off. Ensure that you include a drainage hole for the water to run down.

Though an aviary is a lot of work to look after, the pleasures that you will take advantage of out of it as an enthusiastic bird owner will be well worth the effort.

Submitted by: Carmen Knox - Source: www.isnare.com

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BALD EAGLE: Bird of Majesty

Bald Eagle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Having grown up in the United States, I have seen pictures of bald eagles all my life but I had never seen one. When I went to Alaska recently, I knew this was my chance to see this wonderful bird. Bald eagles are native to North America and live throughout out Canada, the continental United States and northern Mexico but they are especially plentiful in Alaska.

I went to the Chilkoot River where salmon are restricted as they go through a fishing weir and I waited to see my bald eagles. I saw a brown bear mother and two cubs and I saw some seagulls. Then I heard a whishing in the air and looked up. A bald eagle came flying in and landed thirty feet above my head on the branch of a tree. It was then that I noticed its mate who had been sitting in the tree all the time. They sat there and called back and forth to each other for about twenty minutes. Since bald eagles mate for life I could imagine this pair saying, "Where have you been all day?" "I was out getting materials for the nest and fishing." I felt like I was eavesdropping on a private eagle conversion and was enthralled with the view I had been given into an eagle's daily life.

I developed my interest in bald eagles back in 1967 when this eagle was declared endangered in the 48 contiguous states. It was hard to imagine that a bird that had numbered 300,000 to 500,000 in the early 18th century had only 412 mating pairs in the mid-twentieth century. What had happened to reduce the population so severely? Several things had happened. Eagles and other birds of prey were adversely affected by the use of DDT. DDT didn't kill the birds but it affected their calcium production. The shells on their eggs were too thin to survive these large birds sitting on them. Also, people hunted these birds for sport and also to protect lakes and other fishing areas from these remarkable fishermen. Lost of habitat was another factor in the decline of the bald eagle.

In 1972, the use of DDT was banned in the USA and about the same time strong limits were put on DDT's use in Canada. The passage of the Endangered Species Act of 1972 also assisted in the rapid recovery of the bald eagle in the lower 48 states. In 2007, this magnificent bird was removed from the list of endangered or threatened species. It is now protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty. The remarkable recovery from a listing of endangered to a listing of least concern in just 40 years is an environmental success story.

Bald eagles are very impressive birds. These birds weigh 10 to 14 pounds and can have a wingspan of 66 to 96 inches. They can lift about 4 pounds. Unlike many species, the female is generally larger than the male. Their yellow eyes are about the size of a human eye but 4 times sharper. As birds go they have longevity; they can live for 20 or 30 years, even longer in captivity. They sexually mature at about 4 or 5 years. It is at this time they develop their white head, neck, and tail plus their yellow feet and beak.

An eagle is most majestic when it is flying. They ride the thermals or rising currents of warm air. They can soar to an altitude of 10,000 feet and achieve speeds of 30 to 35 mph. Their dive speed can be between 75 and 95 mph. Talon clasping or cartwheeling is amazing behavior. Two eagles will grasp talons in mid-air and tumble and spin downward, letting go just before reaching the ground. Some think this is a courtship ritual and others think it is a territorial battle. Whichever it is, it is amazing to watch.

The bald eagle is an opportunistic feeder which eats primarily fish but will eat carrion, small animals, and even steal from other birds. Watching an eagle swoop down and grab a fish out of the water as it flies by fills one with awe. The eagle doesn't even slow down. Eagles living in warmer climates generally don't migrate. Those who live near water that may freeze will migrate to open water so they may continue to hunt fish during the winter months. If the fish are plentiful, bald eagles will gather in large numbers around the feeding ground. In the winter, hundreds may be found along the open waters in Alaska and British Columbia.

Throughout history, eagles have been the symbol of power for nations or gods. An eagle standard led the Roman legions into battle. Both the Norse god Odin and the Greek god Zeus were represented by eagles. Eagles have also been symbols of Germany, Austria, and Russia. An eagle is found on the Mexican coat of Arms. The eagle is also important in many Native American religions. Feathers and claws of the bald and golden eagles are used by many tribes in their religious regalia and ceremonies.

On June 20, 1782, the bald eagle was chosen as the emblem of the United States of America because of its long life, great strength, and majestic looks. It also was native to North America. The image of the bald eagle is found on the Great Seal of the United States. It holds an olive branch with 13 leaves in one talon and a quiver of 13 arrows in the other. The eagle's beak holds a banner reading E Pluribus Unum (out of many one). An impression of the bald eagle is found on many US coins. Not everyone agreed that this bird was a good choice as a national symbol because it was reputed to be a bird of "bad moral character." Among those who disagreed with the selection were Benjamin Franklin and James John Audubon.

There is no way to entice a bald eagle to come to your yard. His world is much bigger than your yard. If you want to see bald eagles you must go where there is water, fish, and forest and hope that he also finds this place satisfactory. If you and the bald eagle are in the same area at the same time, she will put on quite a show. The bald eagle is magnificent as he flies through the air, amazing as she cartwheels toward the ground and regal as a couple sits high in a tree viewing their vast domain. I am glad that the bald eagle is now in full flourish throughout most of North America and that it is no longer endangered. Many more of us now have a chance to see this magnificent bird near our home.

By Beverly Clyde - Article Source: EzineArticles

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ZEBRA FINCHES - All About Zebra Finches Care, Diet

Zebra Finch - Photo   by     Orchids love rainwater 

Zebra Finches, Variety, Care, and Food

In the Australian grasslands, they have a small bird called Zebra Finch. Those finches come in a wide variety. Because of the strict policies of exportation of animals that Australia has, most of the finches are not born there. Zebra finches are very colorful birds, the males being more colorful than the females. Because of the ease in breeding these birds in captivity and the very attractive coloring, they have become very popular.

Like many other beautiful finches, the Zebra Finch has a delightful chirping song, a soft chirping that is a bit different but pleasing. A lot of finch owners find the sound pleasant and sweet. Studies have shown that the male finch is more vocal of the two sexes.

Although the zebra finch is very social with other birds they are quite shy around people. Finches are not known for liking to be held, the finch really doesn't like to be held or petted. So they are beautiful birds but if you are buying one because you would like to hold it, the zebra finch is not recommended. Finches in the wild do tend to flock together with other finches of the like, this is the reason they are so social in captivity. If you think of purchasing a finch, you might consider buying in pairs as to ensure they are happy.

Because zebra finches love to fly around it is recommended you purchase a large cage that can permit this activity. Nothing less than 25 inches across is best, you can find these sizes in affordable metal or wooden cages. Also, remember that just because a finch is small in size, do not underestimate their capabilities for escaping. If the bars are not close enough together the finch will escape. So it is vital to make sure the cage bar gape is adequate. If at all possible please avoid a cage made of brass, or coated in brass, this is toxic for your birds.

Care for your zebra finch will consist of the correct seed which is available from any local supply store. finches also need a diet supplement of greens, vegetables, and fruits. If you can get sprouted seeds this is optimal in providing the need for greens. Cucumbers and carrots will satisfy the vegetable needs. Always make sure your finch has plenty of water, and always include a bathing area, they love to clean themselves.

Also, make sure the cage is well-kept, cleaning should take place at least weekly. Making sure everything is tidy will allow your zebra finch to show off their best qualities.

Other dietary items will consist of bananas, apples and other fruits your zebra finch may love. Zebra finches have another need as well, and that is calcium. Calcium is essential as a mineral supplement. This encourages bone development as well as helping with female egg production. At your local supply store look for a Cuttlebone, this will be more than adequate.

Taking good care of your finch is important, and these birds will love you for it. They will play and sing, brightening up the household, and make everything so peaceful and relaxing. Take good care do not grab at your finches, zebra finches tend to scare easy like other finches and you do not want to cause any trauma to your birds. Always remember to have everyone in the household trained on care for your birds. This will help and allow everyone to be aware, so you can all enjoy these wonderful additions to the home.

Elisabeth S Krautler Elisabeth Krautler is a finch expert. - Article Source: EzineArticles

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