It's Fall Ya'll

 

Fall is my favorite time of year. The rich colors of the trees and the spicy scent of the air. I love bringing the outdoor crisp smells into my own home.

However living with birds makes me always remember to choose safe ways to enjoy the smells of the seasons.

You may be bombarded with ads or store displays for scented candles, potpourri, scented pine cones, table top and plug-in air fresheners, and so on and so on, all in order to make a quick easy addition to the scent of fall in your home.

BUT WAIT! A BIG TIME WARNING!

Those store bought goodies may not always a good choice as they are not always safe to have around your bird and other pets, as well as someone who has breathing issues. Many of these ready-made items use some essential oils and some essential oils can be very toxic to your bird.

Don't fret though, because it's so easy to make your own personal fall fragrances that are safe for your birds, other pets, or anyone with breathing issues or asthma.

It doesn't take much time either and can be quite fun to create what makes you smile in the morning. If you garden or know someone who does, save and/or dry many flowers and herbs such lavender, mints, sunflowers, gardenias, jasmine, and such.  Gather together some fresh or dried bottled spices and then let your imagination swirl.

Standard fall spices include ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, and nutmeg. Those make a good base to start with, then add anything your heart enjoys such as orange slices, lemon slices, or apples, and such, as well as any flowers or herbs you like. My Cockatoo Cookie loves natural cinnamon sticks and it's fun to give her one in the morning with her breakfast and smell the sweet cinnamon fragrance permeate the bird room.

Once you have gathered the right mix for you, add some water to your mixture and then use a small warming pot such as used for potpourri, or even a small size coffee pot that has a warm setting, or even just a small size sauce pot (NO TEFLON), and enjoy.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Never leave your warming pot unattended and especially a pot on the stove, to prevent burning spices, or cause for a fire or other safety issues. 

As the liquid mix of water, spices and fruits warm, they emit the cozy feeling of fall that can last for hours or all day depending on how strong your scents are and how long you leave the warmer on. Sometimes all you have to do is heat the mixture up for a short while, then turn off the heat, and the wonderful smells you have created may last most of the day unattended.

Another quick idea is to create a fall arrangement by inserting cloves into oranges, sprinkle pine cones with spices, add cinnamon sticks, and set among fresh cut pine branches. No heat required, and you have created a fall decor for your room that includes the scents of fall as well. 

Enjoy experimenting with the different scents and portions you like, and find what you love best.

After all, it is "Fall Ya'll"

October National Pet Wellness Month

 

National Pet Wellness Month

October is National Pet Wellness month and that should include bird wellness as well as dogs and cats. Most Avian Veterinarians recommend twice yearly bird checkups to help you keep your bird as healthy as can be.

As birds can be the focus of predatory animals in the wild, it's just natural that birds hide any illness as hard as they can. Sometimes an owner may not see a health issue until the problem is severe. Even very experienced bird people can miss subtle signs sometimes. Healthy bird checkups can help prevent sick bird emergency visits in many cases. These well bird visits also give you and your Avian Veterinarian a chance to discuss diet, weight, and behavioral aspects of your pet bird.

If you do not already have an avian vet, now is definitely the time to begin the search for one.  Ask friends, other bird owners, as well as other veterinarians who may treat your other family pets for recommendations and personal experiences. Veterinarians who treat birds and who are good at it, are not common and sometimes can be a challenge to find, so please don't wait until the last minute when an emergency happens and you have nowhere to take your bird for help. Being an Avian Veterinarian is definitely considered a specialty and some vets will not take birds in an emergency unless they are already an established patient at their clinic. It's also a good idea to have a backup emergency clinic that can treat birds in the event your regular avian vet does not see patients after hours or weekends.   

Personal Note: I wholeheartedly believe most bird people are in tune with their birds. If you think something is off, trust your gut instinct. If your vet tells you there is nothing 'there', but you feel there is definitely something off or wrong, you may want to consider finding another vet. Not all vets are created equal and not all vets really listen. However, in fairness, vets must rely on symptoms, tests, and visual signs, and sometimes an owner senses something before it shows in the physical aspect. Doesn't mean the owner is wrong, just maybe extra intuitive to their bird, so listen to that nagging thought and pay close attention. 

So before all the fall seasonal holiday festivities begin, why not make your bird a visit with your avian veterinarian and make sure all is well within your flock.

Association of Avian Veterinarians

Find a Vet

Lafeber-Find a Vet

October National Apple Month

 

October is National Apple Month

October is not just about pumpkin spice and falling leaves; it's also the perfect time to celebrate apples! These versatile fruits are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that can benefit both humans and our feathered friends.  Choose green, red, golden, or apple colors in-between. There are lots of different tasting apples, and I have found in my own flock that some of my birds prefer red over green, golden over red, and so on. Try them all and find what varieties your bird loves most.  

Let's explore the nutritional benefits of apples and how they can be a great addition to a parrot's diet.

Apple Nutrition: A Powerhouse of Vitamins and Fiber

Apples are a nutritional powerhouse, containing a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health. They are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, apples are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. 

How Are Apples Great for Parrots?

Parrots can benefit greatly from the nutritional content of apples. The vitamin C in apples can help boost their immune system, helping to protect them from illnesses. The fiber content supports healthy digestion in parrots. Apples also provide parrots with a natural source of hydration, keeping them hydrated throughout the day. However, it is very important to remove the seeds and core before offering apples to parrots, as these parts can be toxic to birds.

How to Clean Pesticides or Waxes from Apples

Before sharing apples with your parrot, it's essential to ensure that they are free from any pesticides or waxes that may be harmful to your feathered friend. The best way to clean apples is by soaking them in a solution of water and vinegar. Simply fill a bowl with water and add a splash of vinegar. Let the apples soak for a few minutes, then rinse them thoroughly with water. This method will help remove any pesticide residue or wax, making the apples safer for your bird to enjoy. Or simply peel your apples to remove the outside skin automatically removing any surface wax or lingering pesticides or fertilizers.  Peeling is my preferred method.

   

So this October, why not celebrate Apple Month by incorporating this nutritious fruit into your bird's diet? With their delicious taste and numerous health benefits, apples are a fantastic addition to your bird's fall diet.

Here's to a happy and healthy October filled with apples!

 

October is Fire Safety Month

 

October is Fire Safety Month and it's a great time to evaluate your preparedness for the safety of all family members and any of our beloved pets. Birds are particularly vulnerable in the case of a fire as smoke inhalation can be deadly and happens so quickly, so it is essential to be prepared and take preventive measures to keep them safe. Below are some great tips on fire safety for birds to help you be better prepared for any emergency.

Extra Fire Risks for Birds

Birds are highly sensitive to smoke and fumes, making them more susceptible to respiratory issues during a fire. In addition, their delicate respiratory systems can be easily overwhelmed by toxic gases released in a fire. It's important to be aware of these risks and take proactive steps to protect your feathered friends.

Create an Emergency Plan

Developing a comprehensive emergency plan is crucial for ensuring the safety of your birds in case of a fire. This plan should include designated evacuation routes, name and phone number of an emergency bird vet, a list of any other emergency contacts, and a designated caregiver for your birds in case you are unable to care for them should you need medical care. Evaluate this emergency plan regularly to ensure a swift and efficient response in case of an emergency.

Install Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are essential for early detection of fires, giving you and your birds more time to evacuate safely. Make sure to install smoke alarms in key areas of your home, including near your bird's enclosure. Test the alarms regularly and replace the batteries as needed to ensure they are in working condition.

Use Bird-Safe Heating Sources

During the colder months, it's important to use bird-safe heating sources to keep your feathered friends warm. Avoid using space heaters or heat lamps near your bird's enclosure, as some of these may pose a fire hazard. 

Prepare an Emergency Kit

As part of your emergency preparedness plan, assemble an emergency kit for your birds. This kit should include a travel carrier kept near your bird's cage, a towel for quick toweling of your bird if necessary, food and water supplies for several days, any necessary medications, vet contact information, and a copy of your bird's medical records if available. Having this kit ready to go will ensure that you can quickly evacuate with your birds in case of a fire.

By following these expert tips on fire safety for birds, you can be better prepared to protect your feathered friends in case of an emergency. Remember, being proactive and having a plan in place can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of your beloved pets.

Easy Bake Apple Harvest Muffins

 

This yummy fall bird muffin is healthy, delicious, and fun!

       

INGREDIENTS:

       1 package Prepared Bird Bread Mix (such as TOPs or Harrisons bred mixes)

1 large apple, chopped into small pieces

**(peel apple & remove seeds before chopping)

1 can 100% pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling which contains sugar)

2 medium or 1 large egg

1 cup water (or use unsweetened apple juice instead of water)

1/2 extra cup water or juice (optional)

2 tablespoons palm-fruit or olive oil

Paper cupcake or muffin liners

 In a large mixing bowl, pour the package of bird bread mix. Add the eggs, oil and stir thoroughly.

Next, add the can of pumpkin to the mixture and stir well.

Peel apple (to remove any wax or pesticide residue) and remove any apple seeds as they are toxic. Chop the apple into small pieces. We use our food processor for just a few seconds for quick small pieces. By cutting the apple into smaller pieces, the apple will be distributed through the muffins more evenly.

Add apple pieces to mixture and stir gently but well. Add water or juice to mix until mixture is blended well.

Although the canned pumpkin will add some moisture to the mixture, the apples will soak up moisture offsetting the liquid you have added. So add enough water or juice to make a cupcake-batter consistency. (The thicker the mixture, the longer it will need to bake).

Pour mixture into mini muffin or cupcake pans and bake at 350 degrees for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Oven temperatures can vary so be sure muffins are done.

Thoroughly cool muffins before serving to your bird. Cooked muffins can also be frozen in freezer bags or plastic containers and removed daily for a fun treat each day until gone.

Use fall or Halloween cupcake/muffin paper baking cup holders to add extra fun for your bird. Hand your bird the complete muffin and watch him or her peel away the muffin paper and relish the yummy fall muffin inside.

These Apple Harvest Muffins are full of nutrition and make a great foraging food.

 

Cinnamon Spice oh so Nice

 

Who doesn't just love the smell of cinnamon and spice and everything nice that translates into the fall and holiday season?  Those of us who share our homes with birds though can feel a little left out sometimes. Scented candles, air fresheners, and especially those plug-in fresheners, are totally off limits in our homes. Many, if not all, of these scented items can be deadly to our birds.

A general rule of thumb when it comes to candles, potpourri, air sprays, is that the better it smells, the more toxic it probably is for our feathered friends. Our own avian veterinarian has warned us that plug-ins are not only dangerous to our birds but have also been linked to seizures and other health issues in some cats and dogs as well. Some essential oils used in many scented candles and potpourris can be toxic to birds.

So how do we join in the fall holiday spirit and spruce up our aromatic indoor smells?

It is actually very simple indeed. Gather up some cooking spices such as ground cinnamon, cinnamon sticks, ground and/or whole cloves, and some ground pumpkin pie spice. You can also add some sliced oranges or apples to the mixture as well.

  

Then find a warming pot such as one for potpourri, or a small size coffee pot that has a warm setting, maybe a small crockpot with low settings, or even just a small size sauce pot (no teflon please), add some water and sprinkle a little or a lot of the spices that you prefer, stir well, and keep warm.

Now you too can enjoy all the wondrous smells of the fall season and holidays without worrying if it is safe for your birds and other pets.

Caution Note:  Do make sure the pot never dries out as it may damage your warming pot, or may cause burned smells which would not be good for your birds. Unplug your unit when you are not at home to keep an eye on it.

It Is Pumpkin Time

Fall harvest time brings an abundance of colors and flavors, as well as nutrition for your bird.  Pumpkins are especially a favorite with mine.

Pumpkins and pumpkin seeds are truly a superfood.  High in vitamin A, providing calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and other wonderful healthy nutrients, makes pumpkin a winner for your parrot's diet.

Check out your grocery store or local farmers market for large pumpkins as well as the smaller edible pumpkins that are great as a whole foraging food for larger birds. 

If your bird prefers cooked softer foods, bake the pumpkin in the oven at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes first, and after completely cooling, let your bird's fun begin.  You can also cut the top off and remove all the pumpkin seeds (use the seeds later) for less mess if you prefer.

Larger sized pumpkins can be cut open, seeds removed, baked for about 45 minutes, then cut into smaller sizes and placed in freezer bags for lots of future foraging fun.  You may also cut the pumpkin into chunks before baking as well.

The pumpkin pieces or chunks can also be smashed in a food processor or blender and added to your favorite bird bread or muffin recipe, or added to your bird's chop as well.

Pumpkin seeds can be prepared by rinsing well to remove the stringy gooey pumpkin pulp, pat the seeds dry with a paper towel, or spread seeds on the towel or paper plate and air dry.  Then place the pumpkin seeds on a large cookie sheet or cake pan (REMEMBER: DO NOT US NON-STICK PANS THAT MIGHT CONTAIN NONSTICK CHEMICALS).  You can lightly spray the cookie sheet or pan first with some non-stick cooking spray, or use the safe old-fashioned wax paper as a liner to help keep the seeds from sticking to the pan.  Preheat your oven to 250-300 degrees and bake the seeds for about 40 minutes.  Ovens can vary so keep on eye on the seeds to be sure they do not burn.  It may help to stir the seeds around about every 10 minutes as well to prevent sticking.  

You can serve the seeds to your bird as soon as they have cooled, as well as placing some or all in freezer bags or containers and freeze for later use. 

Pumpkin seeds make great nutritional treats all by themselves.

Preparing for Winter Temps

As we move into winter temps across the country, warmth is necessary for us and for our birds.  

If you use electric central heat, having an annual checkout of your unit is a good idea to make sure everything is safe and ready to go.

I personally add a little extra warmth to my bird room at night with portable oil filled radiators.  Mine are older heaters and I have never had any problem with them.  However a word of caution if you are purchasing a new one, I would highly suggest plugging it in outside your bird area and setting on a high heat to burn off any coatings the newer ceramic units may have.  I would allow at least 24 hours of use in a vented area before adding to your bird's area. 

VERY IMPORTANT! - Never use Kerosene heaters around birds as the fumes can be toxic and can kill your bird.

My personal research on the use of propane or butane heaters is a little confusing as it seems split 50/50 on yay or nay.  Many avian experts say do not use either propane or butane heaters around birds.  However, some bird owners say they have used them with no ill effects on their birds.  One source I found stated that butane is not a highly toxic gas and can be stored inside your home.  Whether that means you can also use it safely in your home with birds, is an unknown definite to me and I personally tend to err on the side of unknown safety, means no safety.

It is, however a known fact that propane or butane heaters used without adequate combustion or ventilation can give off excessive carbon monoxide which is an odorless, poisonous gas, deadly to birds, and even humans. Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning in humans are similar to flu-like symptoms, including a headache, dizziness, and nausea.  For birds sadly there would be no warning to let you know there is a problem.  

I encourage everyone to do their own research into these methods of supplemental heating as well as gas burning fireplaces before any emergency occurs.

A gas burning fireplace has been considered unsafe by many in the bird world but some of the newer gas burning fireplaces may have extra precautions of safety built into them.  Again, I encourage everyone to research and even contact the manufacturer of your particular brand for more information and safety precautions.   

If you are having to use a wood burning fireplace for heat, make sure your room is well vented and no smoke is coming into the room where your bird is.  Before winter sets in it is a good idea to make sure your fireplace is clean and free of creosote and any leftover nesting materials by birds who may have set up housekeeping in the chimney over the summer.   

Creosote is a residue that accumulates in your chimney from wood burning and can be extremely flammable.  Read more about creosote here:  Wood Burning and Creosote Information


Stay warm, stay safe, and stay inside if you can.

Some Halloween Safety Tips

Although there are usually less and less Trick-or-Treaters going door to door in neighborhoods these days, there are still plenty of fun activities that include sweet treats.

However, if you do still get a few of those tricky visitors at your door, be sure to keep your bird safely away from open doors, scary costumes, and boisterous children (and sometimes even the adults).

It is very important too to remember to keep the sweets from becoming birdie treats.

Sometimes I hear comments that chocolate must not be really toxic to birds because their bird ate a chocolate chip cookie, or some other chocolate treat and was fine.

I do cringe when I hear these comments as yes, chocolate really IS toxic.  However not all chocolate is equal.  The dark cocoa found in Dark Chocolate Squares, Bittersweet, and Baker's chocolates are usually the most toxic, as well as also containing caffeine which is also not good for your bird.

Chocolate in any form should not be fed to birds. Yes, Bittersweet, Baker's and Dark Chocolates are more toxic than Milk Chocolate, but are you willing to take the chance that your bird has no problem?

It's not just chocolate treats either.  Those yummy sugary candies are big no-nos too.  One candy corn may be a great sugar treat for a child, but that's a whole lot of sugar for a bird, especially a small one.

Also there is a somewhat new danger that is deadly to other household pet.  It's called xylitol.  It's a newer sugar substitute used in some sugar-free products, low carb products, and even vitamins and supplements.  Become a label reader for safety.  Even a small amount of xylitol can cause seizures, liver failure, and even death in dogs.  You can read more about xylitol by clicking HERE

So keep the people treats for the people, and if you want your bird to share in the Halloween fun, pick up a few birdie treats, or even better, bake up some healthy bird treats of your own.
Apple Pumpkin Harvest Bird Muffins Recipe