West Nile Virus - 2005

-
We are hearing news reports of earlier than usual positive results on early detection testing for West Nile Virus in some states. Click on the name link above for some good information to help protect humans and our animals this summer. If you live in an area with West Nile Virus, please reconsider taking your birds outside as you may be putting them at risk for West Nile Virus.

Popular posts from this blog

How Much should a Quaker Parrot Weigh?

-
Image
CUSTOMER QUESTION:   My new Blue Quaker looks thin to me.  3-4 mos old. What should she weigh? ANSWER:  Congratulations on your new Quaker Parrot!  Quakers are fabulous parrots to have as part of the family.  We have several ourselves and really enjoy their talking ability and their fun antics. The answer to your question can vary a bit depending on the color of the various Quaker color mutations.  Most weaned normal green Quakers weigh in anywhere from 90 to 120 grams on average.  Younger Quakers usually weigh at the lower end of the scale as they are still growing and forming body mass. Often Quaker Parrots of all color mutations who have recently weaned, ages 3-4 months usually, may actually loose some weight as they loose some of the "baby" weight that they maintained from their handfeeding formula.  This weight loss should not last long before the weight begins to go up again, and should not be more than a maximum of about 20% of th...
Read more

Does your bird need a little fresh air?

-
Image
Question: Is it safe for a parakeet to go outdoors in a cage? Answer: Some birds really enjoy going outdoors for a little fresh air and watching all the exciting activities of the outdoors.  Who doesn't love some fresh air and sunlight every once in a while.  However, some birds may become very frightened if taken outdoors, so please be sure your bird will enjoy the outing.  If your bird is not used to the outdoors, you may want to start with only a few minutes outside, making it a fun time with lots of praise, and increasing the time outdoors as your bird becomes more adjusted to all the sights and sounds. Often people prefer to take their bird outside in a cage to keep the bird safe, rather than using a harness.  You will need to make sure all openings on the cage such as openings for feed cups, are securely fastened, just as the door should be, making sure your bird does not escape the cage.  We strongly recommend a bird never be left outdoors by itself...
Read more

Growing Safe Flowers and Herbs for your Bird

-
Image
People who love birds often love flower gardens also.  Did you know some flowers and most herbs are safe, nutritious, and quite yummy to feed your bird? To be sure the plants and flowers are edible make sure they are grown without the use of pesticides and other harmful additives.  Even better, you can grow a few for yourself in pots or any garden area. Although all of the plants and flowers we have listed are considered edible, it's always a good idea to only feed a small portion initially to your bird.  For example, parsley is considered safe and edible, yet I had a budgie named BlueBell who loved it, but it always made her throw up.  No other bird in our home had that reaction.  So although a flower or plant is considered safe, a bird may still have a sensitivity that is not common. Here is a few healthy, yummy, easy flowers and herbs to start with.  You might find you enjoy them as much as your bird. Basil is highly fragrant herb wit...
Read more