It's All About the Beak!

A parrot's beak is a very fascinating part of what makes a parrot a parrot.  Parrots use their beaks to help them climb, to open the smallest seeds, or the hardest nuts, to preen their feathers, to clean their toes, to feed their mates, to feed their own baby parrots, to give their humans gentle kisses, and of course to nip or bite at something they fear or something that simply makes them irritated.

Beaks are often used for climbing and can almost seem like a parrot's third foot as they can use their powerful beaks to hoist themselves up their play gyms and cages, or even to just hang by their beak as they swing from their toys.  Have you ever watched a parrot climb a ladder?  The beak makes climbing around so much easier for them.  They often use their beaks to help steady the finger or hand that reaches out to them as the first part of stepping up. 

Those powerful beaks can be used to gently open the smallest seed to get at the wonderful nutrition inside.  Ever watched a parrot close up picking up a seed, moving it around with their foot and their beak to get it situated to just the right spot for opening? Then using the foot, beak, and tongue, in unison they pry open the hull for the goodness inside.  Or, just watch one of the big parrots rotating a big walnut to just the right place before cracking that hard nut as if it were made of the thinnest of shells.  Then picking out the meat of the walnut with the tips of their beaks to make sure every little nugget of nutmeat is devoured.

Watch closely as your bird preens its feathers using the beak as a precision tool made for preening.  Taking each feather with great care and running it through the beak removing all dust and debris for perfect feather condition.  No matter if its the tiny downy feathers that must be gingerly removed, or the longest of the long tail feathers, that beak is the perfect tool for parrot preening and sharing the job with another feathered friend can be great fun too. 

If you have ever been lucky enough to watch parrot parents feeding their young, it is the most touching of all.  Although the parent beaks are huge compared to the tiny little babies, they are able to deliver food to their babies with the greatest of ease with no harm at all to the babies.  The parents also use their beaks to gently nudge the babies into the perfect position under their adult feathers to keep them as warm as needed.  To watch the gentleness of an adult parrot with it's young is wondrous indeed.

But you may ask, what is this remarkable parrot beak made of?  A beak consists of keratin which is the same material your fingernails contain.  However, unlike a fingernail, a bird's beak also contains blood vessels and nerve endings.  Therefore a bird's beak is very sensitive to touch and also to injury.  Some birds love to have their beaks gently rubbed by their favorite person, and some tend to be beak shy because the beak is so sensitive.  A parrot's beak continues to grow all throughout a bird's life and in nature, birds are busy wearing the extra growth down with natural tree branches and foraging for their food.  If you have a pet bird, you need to provide lots of wooden toys of different textures, both soft and hard wood, and possibly other materials, to help prevent over-growth of the beak.  So you see those wooden bird toys your bird buzz saws through are as much a necessity for your parrot as any vitamins you might provide for a healthy bird.  Bird beaks can be gently filed down if needed, but should only be done by someone who knows what they are doing as the beak can be damaged permanently by inexperienced groomers.  Beaks should never be cut by anyone other than a vet or experienced bird groomer. 

If your bird's beak overgrows even with lots of toys and chew items, you may need to have your bird checked thoroughly by your avian vet to be sure there is not a health reason for the overgrowth.

 



 

Update on Japan Emergency Assistance

The following is a Press Release we have received concerning the emergency situation in Japan concerning zoos and aquariums that also may include parrots.

World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) Zoos and aquariums affected by earthquake and tsunami in Japan

WAZA organizes the “Donate for Japan” emergency assistance operation Gland, Switzerland (March 15th 2011):After the earthquake and tsunami that has affected the North of Japan on March 11th, WAZA is joining forces with its Japanese regional association (JAZA) and its member institutions to help the zoos and aquariums in the North of Japan.
 
"After the horrible earthquake and tsunami in Japan, WAZA is trying to provide financial support for emergency assistance. The most   affected zoos and aquariums urgently need help in order to protect staff and save animals", says Gerald Dick, Executive Director of WAZA - the World Association of Zoos and
Aquariums.

Huge damages happened in the northern part of Honshu island. Some affected zoos and aquariums are suffering from shortage of gas, fuel for heater, food and drinking water for both humans and animals.

Some aquariums in Tohoku area (north part of Honshu Island) have been heavily affected by the earthquake.

Sendai Marinpia Matsushima aquarium was completely-flooded but there was miraculously no human damage.

Sendai Yagiyama Zoo estimates a shortage of feeding stuff. The power is out in Sendai city. JAZA is considering concrete measures to send feeding stuff to Sendai Yagiyama Zoo.

The power is also out at Akita Omoriyama zoo, Morioka Zoo, Asamushi aquarium and Hitachi Kamine Zoo.

Fukushima aquarium will move their sea mammals and birds to Kamogawa Sea World.
 
"It is most important for us to secure the adequate means of transport. And we have started a drive to collect donations from the public." says Kazutoshi Takami, Zoo Veterinarian at Osaka Municipal Tennoji Zoological Gardens.

WAZA is now organizing the cooperation and support for the disaster-affected institutions by collecting donations through its website. Click on the "Donate for Japan"

[ http://www.waza.org/en/site/get-involved/donate-for-japan ] button on the WAZA
homepage and help us support JAZA.

Teaching Your Parrot to Talk

Customer Question: How can I train my senegal parrot,to speak?

Answer: Although all parrots have the ability to speak as we do, not all parrots do so. Some species are known to be better talkers than others as well. Lots of patience is necessary, as well as understanding that parrots like to repeat words they hear often, or hear with great emphasis. Such as your bird suddenly repeating the no-no word you yelled out when you dropped that book on your toe the other day. The way you say a word is often more important than what you say. For example saying 'hello' every morning to your bird might be rather uninteresting, but a great big happy "HELLOOOOO" should catch your bird's interest and maybe tempt him to repeat it back to you.

For more information on some of the better known species for talking, as well as additional information check out our full article by clicking "HERE".

Why Does My Bird Scream?

This question is asked by many bird owners.  Since there are many different reasons why a bird may be more vocal than normal, a close look at health, environment, past history, and behavioral problems would be in order.  Also remember what is a loud noisey parrot to one person, may be a very quiet bird to another.  Noise is definitely relevant to each individual.  A macaw yelling out the excitement of the day is loud to me, a budgie not so much.  Yet often I hear owners who bought a parakeet at the local pet store complain about how they had no idea that bird was going to make so much noise.  Hmmm, obviously their personal noise level is much lower than mine.  Some even think a finch is a noisey little critter.

The difference sometimes is not actually the volume level, but the noise repetitiveness.  Budgies and finches chatter and sing pretty much all day if they are happy and well taken care of.  It's sometimes the fact that they are always going vocally that makes them noisey to some people.  It's not that they are actually loud.

If you live with birds there is going to be some noise, loud or constant, for most humans.  You can adjust your noise tolerance, try and adjust the bird's noise level if it's too loud, or just learn to live with it if you love your bird.

For more information check out Why Does My Bird Scream?

Cockatiel with Dry Itchy Skin

CUSTOMER QUESTION: I have a cockatiel about 6 years of age. She has been flaking & pulling feathers out. My question is can you recommend anything for my cockatiel? It is cold & I don't want to spray her with chemicals or with water with the cold temps. Just wondering if you have any ideas.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Many birds are molting during the fall and winter months of the year. Often when the heat is turned on in our homes, it can cause a prolonged molt as well as some dry itchy skin on many birds as the heat dries the air out. Since cockatiels tend to have a lot of feather dust anyway, winter can seem to add even more dust from them as their feathers can become dryer and in turn seem increase the amount of feather dust.

Dry itchy skin is caused more often in the winter months due to inside heat drying the air out. This can in turn sometimes cause birds to over-preen the feathers or even pull some out as they try and relieve the itchiness. If you have ever had a bad case of dry itchy skin in the winter I'm sure you can relate to the uncomfortable feeling.

Adding a cool mist humidifier to your bird's room, or even a small tabletop water fountain can help in adding much needed moisture back into your bird's environment. Even in the winter months you can lightly spray your bird with warm water in a fine spray mister. Just be sure to spray your bird early in the day so there is plenty of time for all the feathers to dry out before bedtime. Make sure your bird is not in any drafts and you may want to only lightly spray your bird if your household inside temperature is below 70 degrees. Even an occasional light misting will help with adding some moisture back to the feathers.

If you would like to add something extra to your bird's diet during this time, you might want to try Missing Link as we find it to be a very good product for birds who are molting, under stress, or have other health issues.

A little extra moisture in your bird's environment can go a long way to help with dry itchy skin and feathers, and the often seen over-preening of feathers in the winter season.

Are You Ready for the Snow?

As we sit here waiting for the impending doom of lots of snow and ice the weather forecasters are predicting for our area, we realize that winter weather emergencies should be prepared for way before necessary, or you will be one of those standing in long lines trying to grab the last of the emergency items needed.

Living in the south, a few inches of snow and the least bit of ice can shut down pretty much everything.  Only the very brave (or very dumb) are usually willing to venture out onto the icy roads with all the crazy drivers slipping, sliding, and spinning around often making a bad situation even worse.

Here is a list of some items you should have on hand just in case you are snowed in for a few days.  Be prepared also in the event you may loose your power from icy power lines or falling tree limbs.

Emergency items to have on hand for your bird:
Extra Seed, pellets, dried fruit/vegie
Emergency Avian First Aid Kit
Carrier
Warm blanket or quilt to cover the cage
Tear up toys

Other items good to have on hand:
flashlight & extra batteries
warm blankets or quilts for the humans
bottled water
hot snap hand warmers (optional)

Many people keep extra bird food in their freezer and rotate it out as needed so they always have some extra on hand for emergencies.  A very good idea.

If you lose power you will need that flashlight, but make sure the light from the flashlight does not frighten your bird as it will be an unknown moving object to your bird.

If you lose your power and have electric heat, placing a blanket or quilt over your bird's cage can help keep your bird's environment warmer.  If you are forced to use a fireplace for heat, you may need to place your bird in a carrier and bring into the room that is heated.  In that case, a nice tear up bird toy may help keep your bird occupied and busy while in the carrier.

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

Our research on the use of propane or butane heaters seems 50/50.  Many experts say do not use either around birds, and some bird owners say they have used them with no ill effects on their birds.  One source 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 is unknown.

Propane or butane heaters used without adequate combustion or ventilation may 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.

We would suggest it is better to be safe than sorry and to not use either if possible, but if you to have one as your only source of heat in a severe emergency, please ventilate the area well to help protect your bird as well as yourself.  We highly recommend you do your own research into these methods of supplemental heating as well as gas burning fireplaces.

A gas burning fireplace is considered unsafe by many if you own birds.

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

So most important items include extra dry food, water, blankets, carrier, and flashlight.

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

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My Parrot's 12 Christmas Wishes

On the 1st Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 2nd Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 2 Boredom Busters and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 3rd Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 3 Calypso Stackers, 2 Boredom Busters, and Treat Petite from Golden-en-feast;

On the 4th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers, 2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 5th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers, 2 Boredom Busters, and Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 6th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers, 2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 7th Day of  Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 7 Nuts for Knots, 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers, 2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 8th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 8 Soak & Simmers, 7 Nuts for Knots, 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers,  2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 9th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 9 Pacifiers, 8 Soak & Simmers, 7 Nuts for Knots, 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers,  2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 10th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 10 Bitty Bagels, 9 Pacifiers, 8 Soak & Simmers, 7 Nuts for Knots, 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers,  2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 11th Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 11 Swings a Swinging, 10 Bitty Bagels, 9 Pacifiers, 8 Soak & Simmers, 7 Nuts for Knots, 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers,  2 Boredom Busters, and a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast;

On the 12 Day of Christmas my parrot said to me, I'd like 12 Nutri-berries, 11 Swings a Swinging,  10 Bitty Bagels, 9 Pacifiers, 8 Soak & Simmers, 7 Nuts for Knots, 6 Polly Pirates, F-i-v-e Blin-ky Balls, 4 Sleepy Teepees, 3 Calypso Stackers, 2 Boredom Busters a Treat Petite from Gold-en-feast!

Save the Nuts

If you are a nutty human who lives with a nutty parrot (meaning one who loves its nuts) then knowing how to save a few pennies and keep the nuts fresh and tasty is an important issue.

If you have bought nuts for your parrot lately, you already know how expensive they can be.  During the fall and winter season usually beginning in about October, and especially during the Christmas holidays, you can usually find lots of nuts in the shell in local grocery stores.  Often you can even find them on sale during this time.  I like to stock up on the favorites of my birds and keep them on hand throughout the year.  

Keeping nuts for a while requires a little simple nut preparation to keep them fresh and yummy for your bird.  Without taking that care, nuts can dry out and become stale and not so tasty.  Then can even become moldy, and even wormy if they are nuts you collected yourself and were not cleaned properly  before storage.

Freezing whole nuts in their shells may take up some space in your freezer but will keep them safe and sound for up to a year, and most parrot really enjoy working the nut meats out on their own as a fun foraging treat.

If you don't have room in your freezer, clean the nuts and make sure they are nice and dry and then place them in airtight containers in a cool dark place.  This should keep them fresh for up to about 6 months.   

You can also go ahead and shell the nuts, and then freeze the nut meats in freezer bags.  Chopped nuts, and nut pieces will usually last about 6 months in the freezer as well.

Nuts such as walnuts, chestnuts, almonds, macadamias, and Brazil nuts, are rich in protein and healthy fats and provide not only a tasty treat for your bird, but some beak exercise as well.

So show your bird just how nutty you can be and stock up on the nuts while you can.

Smells of the Holidays

Who doesn't just love the smell of cinnamon and spice and everything nice that translates into the holiday season.  However those of us who share our homes with birds, often feel a little left out because scented candles and holiday air fresheners and plug ins, are almost always totally off limits in our homes.  Most all of these items are deadly to our birds.

A general rule of thumb when it comes to candles, potpourri, plug ins, and air sprays, is the better it smells, the more toxic it probably is for our feathered friends.  Essential oils are very toxic to birds.


So how do we join in the holiday spirit and spruce up our indoor smells beyond the pine scent of the live Christmas tree or fresh pine wreath over the mantle?

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.  Then find a warming pot such as one for potpourri or a small size coffee pot that has a warm setting, add water to fill and sprinkle a little or a lot of the spices that you prefer.

Now you too can enjoy all the wondrous smells of Christmas and the winter holidays without worrying if it is safe for your birds.

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

Halloween Pumpkin Bird Cake

Bake up this cute little Halloween Pumpkin Cake for your flock.

With fresh carrots, squash, pumpkin, and some blackberries for decoration, this pumpkin can be cooked up and decorated in very little time.

Use your imagination and create your very own special Halloween Pumpkin Cake for your special bird.

Find the complete recipe at Halloween Pumpkin Cake

and many more recipes as well at Nature Chest Bird Shop Bird Recipes

Non Stick Kills

With the fall festivities and holiday season approaching, many people will be cooking and baking more than usual.  It may also be a time when cleaning your oven is necessary.  Because of the above, we felt it might be helpful to remind all bird owners of the deadly danger of PTFE.

What is PTFE you ask?  PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene and it is one of, if not the most,  insidious deadly danger to your bird.

It is the quiet killer.  It has no smell, it has not warning, but it can be 100% guaranteed death for your bird in almost all situations.

In birds this killer is called "Teflon toxicosis" which causes the lungs of the exposed bird to this toxin to quickly begin to hemorrhage and fill with bloody fluids causing the bird to suffocate within minutes.  Death by PTFE happens quickly, so quickly you will not have time to go for help.

It goes by many names but the most recognized ones are Teflon, Silverstone, Stainmaster, and other well known names.  If anything you purchase has the wording of "non-stick" anywhere on the label, then it is very probable that it contains this chemical.  It is hidden in self-cleaning ovens, ironing board covers and irons, some heat lamps, space heaters, and many many other (way too many) common household products.

Virtually all "non-stick" cookware and drip-pans which can be purchased under many different manufacturer's names, contain PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and are extremely deadly to the lives of our birds. Any brand of cookware you are considering which states "non-stick" should immediately send up a warning flag to you as it most probably contains the very deadly PTFE.  Your brain should be screaming "DANGER DANGER" at the mere mention of the those words "non-stick"

Unless the manufacturer of the product in question can state in writing it does not contain any form of PTFE, and can explain exactly how it is a non-stick product, and can guarantee that it will not harm your bird, you would be safer to assume it does in fact contain deadly PTFE.

It has now been proven that these products do not have to overheat to emit the odorless fumes containing PTFE which are lethal to birds and can kill within minutes. So never assume you are safe because you never leave pans on the stove to overheat.  Tell that to the owner whose 18 year old African Grey died suddenly while she was standing nearby in the kitchen cooking dinner.  Nothing there was overheating when she heard the bird fall from his perch.  Tell it to the owner who went upstairs after dinner to find her beautiful 6 year old female Eclectus dead in the bottom of her cage and Necropsy confirmed death by Teflon poisoning from a pan she used in the oven that night.

Whatever utensils you use, rooms should be well ventilated when cooking is in progress. Ventilate the bird's room or area as well as the kitchen. Fumes will travel within your home. Use a range hood, ventilated to the outdoors when you are cooking.

Stainless steel or cast iron cookware is an easily cleaned alternative to pots and pans coated with non-stick surfaces.   Self-cleaning ovens should only be set to clean when all birds have been safely removed from the home.

Having personally witnessed the death of a friend's birds when she innocently used a new drip pan to broil some steaks in her oven, I can say it is a horrible tragedy to happen. Several budgies in a room off the kitchen with a door shut between all died as well as several cockatiels in an adjoining dining room. If you had been the one instead of me who gently reached into each cage to remove a small body from the bottom of the cage after the incident, then you would also know the horror of this chemical.  The only bird to survive was an amazon in a back bedroom with the door closed. He spent several days in the hospital but did survive the ordeal. Nothing can describe the horror the owner went through losing her beloved birds.

Be in the "know", and do all you can to protect your feathered friend this holiday season.

For links to more information about this danger please visit Non-Stick Cookware Dangers

Apple Pumpkin Harvest Bird Muffins

Why not savor some fall harvest flavors and serve up some Apple Pumpkin Harvest Bird Muffins for your favorite bird.

Bake up a batch using Halloween or Fall paper cup holders and serve the muffin with the paper holder. Then enjoy watching your bird peel away the paper and enjoy the muffin inside. Sometimes tearing up the paper is almost as much fun as eating the muffin.

  These nutritious muffins deliver up some wonderful cranberry, apple, and pumpkin goodness.  Easy to bake, easy to freeze, easy to serve.

This and many other birdie recipes can be found at Nature Chest Bird Recipes

How Much should a Quaker Parrot Weigh?

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 their previous total weight at weaning.  As young Quakers begin to eat new foods such as seeds, pellets, bird breads, other cooked foods, fruits & vegetables, they should begin to build themselves up in size and steadily gain the lost weight back.


Some of the color mutations such as the Blue Quakers which your bird is, in our experience can be smaller in size than the normal greens, and they will weigh less as babies and even as adults.  We have seen Blue Quakers who weight about 60-80 grams when young, and not much more when they reach adulthood.  Depending on their genetics, they may appear more petite always than their normal green relatives.  Some do however eventually grow into an overall size that is close in size to the green Quakers so finding out info on the parents should help you know the probable average weight for your particular bird.  Good breeders should keep weight charts and histories on their breeding pairs, and past clutches of babies, which would be very helpful in answering your question of weight.     


If you do not have lots of experience with newly weaned parrots, we would recommend you talk with the breeder if you can of your concerns to get some additional feedback.  Also, if you have not had your new baby health checked by an experienced Avian Veterinarian, that should be a top priority in order to get established with your Avian Vet, as well as ruling out any health issues early on that might cause your bird to loose more weight than normal.


A very good web site for Quaker information is Stanley's Quakerville.


  

Are the Bugs Taking Over?

With the hot hot summer, comes those pesky pests that invade our homes, our bird cages, our dreams.  Ok, maybe a little melodramatic.  However, anyone who owns birds is sure to come face to face with a few moths, the occasional little black seed bug, or some other insect critter.

Since manufacturers cannot use seeds and grains that have been sprayed with large doses of pesticides, nor would we want them to, it is just a fact of life that you will one day come face to face with a bug problem.  Although manufacturers overall do a good job of trying to clean their food mixes of those stowaway insects, even the best of methods can not usually guarantee 100% bug free (even though a few manufacturers claim so).  Having a few moths or seed bugs in bird and parrot food in the summer does not mean the food is bad, expired, or spoiled, or that your local bird or pet store is a bad place.  Unless the bugs have actually been there long enough to hatch out, and produce webs in the food,  freezing your bird and parrot food will eliminate most of the insect problem.  However, for those stubborn insects, actually freezing the food for at least 48 hours, removing from freezer for a couple of days and then refreezing for another 48 hours should do the job.  The little ant-like seed bugs are sometimes a littler harder to kill, and a second freezing usually gets any the first freeze missed.  If your bird food has insect webs in it, you will probably want to remove any webs as they look pretty yucky, and if bad enough you should probably ask the store you bought the food from if they will see if the manufacturer will replace it for you.  Nobody likes yucky food.

There are some natural remedies that can be tried to see if they can control your buggy problem if they make it out of the bird food, or for those intruders who come in from the outdoors.  In general ants, roaches, and many other pests just plain don't like catnip.  So placing some small bags of catnip throughout areas of  your home or aviary might be of help.  Remember however, if you own a cat, this might backfire on your.

MOTHS:
There are two categories of moths, the ones who invade your closet and chew holes in your clothing, and the ones that come from the bird food, or even the foods you bring home from the grocery store.   Be sure to vacuum well the ceilings because they like to set up housekeeping in high places and you might even find a worm or two just hanging around waiting to become a moth.  The natural pheromone  moth traps are very effective at catching the moths that have hatched out.  Totally non-toxic around your birds, just make sure your bird cannot reach the traps as they do have sticky inside that traps the moths.

Some people have had success with homemade moth-repelling sachets made up of some of the following: bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, cloves, eucalyptus leaves, lavender, pepper corns, or dried lemon peels.  We find these remedies seem to work better for the closet moths, more than for help with the kitchen/aviary type moths.

ANTS:
Summertime brings all those wonderfully fresh fruits and vegetables and if you are sharing these with your birds, as you probably should be, then you are most likely going to sooner or later have a problem with ants.  Especially if you have a lory or lorikeet in your home.  Try keeping a small spray bottle of some soapy water handy to spritzing those ants with.  We have also recently discovered that ants seem to have a natural aversion to cucumbers, so try setting out some cucumber peels or slices in the kitchen or at the ants' point of entry.

Also recommended are leaving a few tea bags of mint tea near areas where the ants seem most active, some dry crushed mint leaves, or cloves can also work as deterrents for ants.  If you can trace the ants back to their point of entry, try setting out some cayenne pepper, lemon juice, cinnamon, coffee grounds, or cut up a couple of cloves of garlic and stuff into any cracks the ants are coming through.

**A little tip for ant control that we have personally found very effective is using mite spray sold in pet stores for birds.  Although we totally do not believe in using mite control on a bird, mite spray is very effective at killing ants and can be used in the room with your bird safely.  Remember use only on the ants.  Spraying cage legs with mite spray will help keep ants from climbing into cages.  The spray does not last long so you may need to lightly spray every few days to keep ants under control.
  
Fruit Flies/Gnats:
Now these really can be some pesky pests.  Annoying little buggers flying around your bird's home, or your kitchen area.  A few natural remedies include putting a small amount of wine, or apple cider vinegar, in a shallow dish and covering it with plastic wrap.  Poke a few holes in the plastic and flies go in but can't get out.  Change dish as needed.  There are also Fruit Fly Traps available which are very helpful in eliminating these flying nuisances. 

We hope you find some of these suggestions helpful in your fight against the insect world this summer.

Bert's Blueberry Carrot Cake

This Blueberry Carrot Cake created for a little parrot named Bert on his first hatchday celebration, definitely looks like it is for the humans and not the birds.  Made with Harrison's Original Bird Bread which has been baked into a bird-e-licious cake shape, then decorated with nutritious yummy fresh blueberries, shredded carrots, and snow white cauliflower flowerettes. 

Pictured is a double layer version of the Blueberry Carrot Cake but it can also be baked as a single layer.  

Full Recipe Shown Here

Tips for Changing Your Parrot's Diet from Seed to Pellets

If your parrot has never eaten pellets before you will need to make absolutely sure your bird knows the new pellets are really food. After all they may look rather strange and how would he or she really know they are edible. Have you ever tasted a pellet? Most of them taste a lot like cardboard.

Be sure your bird is actually eating the new pellets before you discontinue the old seed diet. If you are just adding some pellets into the diet, along with the current diet, you may need to cut back "some" of any seed mix, to help encourage your bird to eat both seeds and pellets. We do not personally recommend cutting foods such as healthy vegetables and fruits, as these are nutritous and usually a lot of fun for the bird. What parrot doesn't just love to fling a strawberry across the room after he is finished with it?

If you are changing to pellets instead of seed because you have an overweight bird, well that's a whole other subject, and the tips below work for the change to pellets regardless of the reason.

There is no "one right way" to convince your bird to eat pellets, so here are a few tips that might make it easier for both you and your bird. If one doesn't work after at least a week of trying, then move on to the next suggested tip. Some birds will try a pellet the first time you offer one, some may take a few days to taste one, some a few weeks, others a few months, or if your bird is the really hard core rebel bird, he or she may never really eat a pellet if given a choice.

Tips for converting a bird over to a pelleted diet:

Try mixing a small amount of the pellets with the old food and slowly increasing the pellet amount over several weeks watching carefully to be sure the bird is beginning to eat the pellets.

Try feeding the pellets in a special treat dish, or giving them to your bird by hand as a treat to encourage eating the pellets. Make a big to-do about the treat to excite your bird into trying it.

Try feeding pellets first thing in the morning, followed after a few hours by some fresh foods, or the previous seed or prepared diet. Birds are usually hungry in the morning and may even be ready to try new things in their food dish. By giving the regular diet a few hours later, you are making sure the bird does have some food throughout the day and does not go hungry.

You can also try baking some of the pellets into a birdie bread. Although heating may destroy some of the vitamins in certain pellets, it may be a good method to introduce your parrots to the taste of the pellets, and some of the vitamins will still be present as well.

Once you know for certain your bird is eating the pellets, you may want to feed the pellets and fresh foods during the day, giving only a small amount of the old seed diet just before bed time to make sure the bird does not go to bed hungry.

Watch the bird's droppings carefully every day as they may change color as the bird eats the new pellets. Droppings are very important in telling you that the bird is eating certain foods, and often how much. If you are feeding colored pellets, then the poop might also change color which is a good thing if it means the birds likes the red or green or yellow pellets. Some birds will only eat one color even though all colors taste exactly the same. Parrots are not color blind, they are very visual and color is very important to them. They either like it or they hate it.

It can take anywhere from a few days to a few months to change a bird's diet. Each bird is different and patience and consistency is the key to success.

Some birds do best with a diet of half seed and half pellets mixed together, and lots of fresh vegetables and some fruit. Some species should not be fed pellets as an only diet.

Birds who eat pellets usually also drink more water so be sure there is always fresh water available.

IMPORTANT!!!

There is no guarantee that every bird will eat pellets just because you buy them.

Just because your bird does not eat the pellets you bought, doesn't necessarily mean the bird will never eat pellets. Again that color thing. If you buy plain looking pellets and they are not a big hit, try some of the colored ones instead. Also do the reverse, if your bird was not impressed with all those colors, try some natural looking pellets instead. Sometimes it is trial and error process to find the "perfect" pellet for your bird..

It's rare but it does happen, you have the parrot who absolutely refuses to ever eat a pellet no matter what you do. Remember with birds it is essential that you are consistent, and extremely patient working with them to help them eat a better more healthy diet. Birds are not quitters, especially when they are determined not to eat something. Keep patient, keep consistent, keep it fun, keep determined, and you too can win the diet war.

One last VERY IMPORTANT NOTE - Birds who are refusing to eat pellets, CAN starve to death, so DO NOT put pellets in the cage and figure your bird will eat them if he or she gets hungry enough. - The result could be you starving your bird to death.

Pet Cancer Awareness Month

May 8 is Pet Cancer Awareness Day, and the month of May is pet Cancer Awareness month. Although many believe cancer is the number one disease-related cause of death for our dog and cat family members, no one is sure yet how fast cancer is increasing in our avian friends.

As the caretakers of several retired breeding parrots, many abused, and some abandoned birds, who have come to our care, we are seeing more cases of cancer in parrots from Budgies to Amazons. Many of these birds are older birds and the increased life span of our pet birds may be one reason an increased number of parrots with cancer are appearing.

We have sadly experienced wing/shoulder joint tumors in a Peach Front Conure and a female Budge. These tumors were inoperable for these birds. We have also experienced a Maroon Belly Conure and a Green Cheek Conure both with tumors in throat areas that were also inoperable due to the location of the tumors. We have also seen two older female Amazons, one a Green Cheeked Amazon, and one a Blue Front Amazon, with multiple tumors on x-ray. Both birds eventually had kidney failure due to the cancer. The Amazons were both believed to be well over 50 years of age. We have seen other cases of birds with non-diagnosed tumors that were suspected to be cancerous but pathology was not done to know for sure.

Here is a link to a very good article written by Dr. Margaret A. Wissman concerning cancer in parrots.

Avian Cancer by Dr. Margaret A. Wissman

Please help support any cancer research if you can, and it is important to have your bird checked out thoroughly by an Avian Veternarian yearly to help prevent, or diagnose early any health problems.

Easter Fruit Bread

This spring inspired fruity birdie bread smells as yummy as it tastes. With chunks of mango, strawberries, and coconut cubes, in a nutritious Harrison's bread mix, this spring time delight will be a winner for any bird's discriminating taste.

Bake in mini size cupcake paper holders for a size just perfect for your bird to hold in its foot, or can be crumbled into the dish for birds who prefer not to get their feet a little messy. Cooked muffins can be placed into freezer bags and then you can remove as many as needed daily for a fun treat every day until gone.

Easy to follow directions here. Fruit Bread

Warm Cozy Carriers

Ever need to take your bird outside during cold weather or rainy weather? The Come Along carrier cover can be the perfect way to travel with your bird and keep your bird warm, safe, and secure on the trip. These covers fit the Take Me Home bird carriers, but they can also be used by themselves if your bird is not overly destructive. If our bird is a big time chewer, then you would probably want to combine the Take Me Home carrier with the Come Along cover.

These smart new carriers are available for small and medium size birds, and can even be used for small animals.

Click here for more information

Should you buy organic for your bird?

As bird owners we usually ask ourselves whether we should buy organic fruits and vegetables for our birds. Is organic better, safer? What about pesticides that may cling to fruits and vegetables? In this day when budgets are tighter, buying organic is not always in the budget.

We came across a very helpful web site that may help you know when to choose organic, and when buying less expensive non-organic fruits and vegetables for your bird is okay too.

This site gives you the current top 15 foods that have less pesticides, or come to market with less than the average of unwanted extras that can be very harmful to a bird if not removed before feeding. The site also gives you a list of the "dirtiest" foods to help you know when to be careful in cleaning these foods before serving to your bird, or to buy organic if possible to lesson the chance of feeding your bird potentially dangerous pesticides.

Check out TheDailyGreen.com

How fat is my Bird's Nut?

We are often asked what nut is a good nut to feed.  Although some species seems to do better with more or sometimes less, fat, we thought we would share some information on nuts in general to help bird owners decide which nuts are best for their birds.

Pistachio nuts, again a very popular treat for parrots, contains approximately 44% fat and 20% protein;
Cashew Nuts contain approximately 46% fat and 15% protein;
Almonds another very popular nut fed to parrots contains approximately 50% fat and 21% protein;
Hazelnuts or Filberts contain approximately 61% fat and 15% protein;
Walnuts contain approximately 65% fat and 15% protein;
Brazil Nuts contain approximately 67% fat and 14% protein;
Pine nuts are a very popular nut treat and contain approximately 68% fat and 16% protein;
Pecans, often though of as a higher fat nut, contains approximately 71% fat and 10% protein;Macadamia nuts are approximately 75% fat and 9% protein.

Peanuts are not actually a nut, but rather a legume and they are considered by some as containing "good fat".  Peanuts do contain approximately 22% fat and 6% protein.

We encourage bird owners to do their own research into the pros and cons of any treats you give your bird.




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October is National Pasta Month

October is National Pasta Month so why not cook up some colorful yummy pasta for your bird.  Most parrots, and even little finches and canaries, usually love pasta. 

Pictured is Crazy Corn's Polly Pasta which is an easy pre-mixed pasta bag with lots of nutritious birdie goodies for any size bird.

Or, if you have a little extra time, put together your own special pasta mix for your favorite bird and share your recipe with all bird lovers.  Mix in some vegetables and other goodies, to make a very special pasta treat.

We would love to hear what pasta meal you come up with to please your bird!

October is 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. 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.

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

If you need to locate an Avian Veterinarian visit here.

World's Smallest Parrot Filmed

For the first time ever the world's smallest parrot has been filed. What a wonderful event!

Smaller than a person's thumb, this little parrot is amazing. Watch the video and discover this wonderful little parrot in it's native habitat.

Read full article and view video here.

Thick Billed Parrot in New Mexico

"THICK- BILLED PARROT BRINGS BIRDERS TO ENGLE

ENGLE, N.M. -- Wildlife watchers continue to flock to the Armendaris Ranch headquarters to view a mysterious bird temporarily living in a sparse patch of pine trees shading the sun-baked Chihuahuan desert east of Truth or Consequences.

A thick-billed parrot, Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha, residing on one of Ted Turner's New Mexico ranches has brought in viewers from both North American coasts and Canada. In all, the parrot watchers hailed from 24 states and four countries. This species, you see, is considered endangered in Mexico and has not been seen in the wild in Arizona since 1938. It was previously reported in the Animas Mountains of New Mexico in 1917 and 1919.

"Nobody knows how this bird got here," said Tom Waddell, property manager at the Armendaris. He first observed the parrot in a windbreak of Mondell pines in his yard on May 7. Theories explaining the bird's occurrence range from its being blown off course by the tornado-spawning storms that raged through Texas and Oklahoma the weekend of May 3-4, to it being an escapee from the illegal parrot trade.

Waddell believes it's a wild bird. "There's no evidence of it having been in a cage or anything," he said. "All its daily behaviors, when it eats and rests, when it goes to water, are exactly like a wild bird. And it doesn't touch commercial parrot foods, either."

Read entire article here

A million acres of Amazon rainforest

"Vast new reserve declared in Peru - Courtesy of the World Land Trust

September 2009. World Land Trust (US) and their partner CEDIA (Center for the Development of the Indigenous Amazonians) are proud to announce that the Matsés National Reserve has been approved by the Peruvian national government. This will help ensure the protection of 1,039,390 acres of pristine Amazonian rainforest as well as the Matsés indigenous Amazon tribe.

Culmination of 13 year project
This long awaited triumph for the Amazonian rainforests has been worked for for 13 years by CEDIA, working with the Matsés peoples and providing technical assistance to the government Park Service (SEMARNAP). During much of this time, World Land Trust has been the principal financing source for CEDIAs efforts with the Matsés, supporting community work and provision of technical assistance to the government in an effort to save this precious area of the Amazon. During those 13 years, we have overcome numerous challenges from oil companies and illegal commercial logging operations that delayed the creation of Matsés national Reserve."

Read full article here

AFA Legislative Alert

Please feel free to cross-post the following information:

Common Birds in Aviculture to be Placed Under Endangered Species Act?

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is considering the possible listing of up to 14 additional parrots as "Endangered" under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA).

If adopted, the proposal would list the following species as "Endangered" under the ESA: umbrella cockatoos, moluccan cockatoos, lesser sulphur-crested cockatoos, red-vented cockatoos, blue-headed macaws, blue-throated macaws, buffon's macaws, hyacinth macaws, scarlet macaws, military macaws, shining parrots, grey-cheeked parakeets, yellow billed amazon parrots and green-cheeked amazon parrots.

Many of these species are being successfully bred in large numbers by U.S. aviculturists and are owned by many thousands of U.S. citizens as pets.

Once listed, a species could not be sold across state lines without the appropriate federal permit, a permit that does not recognize "pet purposes" as a valid permitting basis.

AFA believes that this proposal is not supported by reliable scientific or commercial data, will discourage captive breeding of these species in the U.S. and will have a detrimental effect on U.S. interstate commerce, without any corresponding benefit to the species purported to be protected. Since none of these species has been imported into the United States since the Wild Bird Conservation Act (1992) went into effect, AFA sees no material scientific or commercial justification for the uplisting, but does see a huge detriment to aviculture and to the future of these species themselves in the U.S.

The USFWS has initiated a call for information on scientific and commercial data with regard to whether these species should be proposed for Endangered status, with comments due by September 14, 2009. They are not looking for general public comment on uplisting at this time, but are looking for input on whether there is a scientific and/or commercial basis for these species to be proposed for uplisting. If the FWS actually proposes these species for uplisting, that proposal should be open to general public comment. AFA will advise all of its members if this occurs.

AFA is developing a position paper on the scientific and commercial aspects of this call for information and will submit it by the deadline.

People concerned about the scientific and commercial pros and cons of this proposal may make their thoughts known to FWS by September 14, 2009.

Contact information for the Service and this important proposal can be found at fws.gov or by contacting the AFA Business Office at afaoffice@earthlink.net.

You can make a formal comment to FWS online by September 14, 2009 at: Regulations.gov

Or you can mail your comments to:
Public Comments Processing
Attn: FWS-R9-IA-2009-0016
Division of Policy and Directives Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 222
Arlington, VA 22203

In either case, refer to FWS-R9-IA-2009-0016.

A Fighting Chance for the Puerto Rican Amazon

The parrot has been called one of the ten most endangered birds in the world. “Don’t ask me what the other nine are,” said White, as if to emphasize the futility of comparing endangerment when so many birds, including several parrot species, are on the verge of disappearing in the wild. The Puerto Rican is certainly the rarest of the 30-plus Amazona parrot species. Despite fierce efforts to protect a wild flock and reintroduce captive parrots, the El Yunque population has hovered below 50 for decades.

The birds battle their twin nemeses: red-tailed hawks and (even in the tropics) hypothermia. “This is not the area that they chose as a refuge; this is what they were left with,” White said of their high-altitude redoubt. “This is the rainiest, most humid part of Puerto Rico. Chicks that fledge either during or before a major rainfall event have a much higher mortality rate than chicks that fledge during drier periods. If we stopped management efforts with this particular population, in a matter of years it would probably be gone, because there are so many environmental factors working against it. That’s why it’s imperative to establish additional populations in Puerto Rico.”

Read the complete article here

Learn more about the Puerto Rican Amazon at 10,000 Birds

A Cockatoo Friend of 49 Years

"MICHAEL wants toast and a cuppa, pretty please. And there is nothing 86-year-old Doreen Trainor won't do for her fabulous, feathered friend of 49 years.

She rises early when her best mate calls for his breakfast, spreading his toast with his favourite fig jam.

The cockatoo helps out when he can, pulling teabags out of the canister as the kettle boils and tossing pill bottles across the table."

Click here to read entire article.

Today is National Watermelon Day!

Today is national watermelon day and our birds love watermelon. Yummy, messy, cool and refreshing for them.

Share some today with your bird and have a slice or two for yourself.

Land for Bird once thought Extinct

"The purchase of a 479-acre property in eastern Brazil has almost doubled the size of the Stresemann’s Bristlefront Reserve established in 2007 by American Bird Conservancy and in-country partner Fundação Biodiversitas. The new acquisition, which abuts the existing reserve, includes untouched, humid Atlantic forest, one of Brazil’s most rapidly disappearing habitats, and will boost protection of the critically endangered Stresemann’s Bristlefront and other endangered birds, such as the Red-browed Parrot, Hook-billed Hermit, Banded Cotinga, and Bahia Tyrannulet.

'The bristlefront was thought to be extinct, disappearing for more than 50 years before being rediscovered in 1995 near Una, in Bahia province,' said David Wiedenfeld, American Bird Conservancy’s Assistant Director of International Programs."

Read complete story here.

Do you know where Cuttlebone comes from?

If you do, then you know cuttlebone, a white usually oval shaped bird product, many people give to their birds as a source of calcium, actually comes from the cuttlefish.

This is a pretty cool cuttlefish we thought.
Flamboyant Cuttlefish

Bald Bird Newly Discovered in Laos

Scientists have confirmed the discovery of a rare bald songbird has been hiding out in the rocky limestone cliffs of central Laos.

The new species is the only example of a bald songbird in Asia and the first new type of bulbul reported in the last hundred years.

Read more about it at:

New Bald Songbird Discovery

The "NEW" Avian Network

Want to save some money on your bird supplies? Who doesn't these days. Check out the all new Avian Network for a great source of some marvelous bird speciality stores. For a very small lifetime membership fee of only $10, you can join a community where shopping for your bird is a whole lot more personal than shopping with the large chains or very impersonal large corporation owned stores.

The Avian Network community offers species information, lots of tips and helpful suggestions for you and your bird. Not only will you shop smartly and safely because you and your bird are important customers to each and every vendor who participates in the Avian Network, the best part is every vendor at Avian Network also offers a special discount, free shipping, or other special goodie, that only Avian Network members are eligible for.

Start saving with your very first purchase, and feel good about shopping where you and your bird are special customers, and not just another number in line at the checkout.

My Cockatiel is Flying Across the County

Question: I am taking my cockatiel on a trip with me and we will be flying across the country. I have ordered the solid top carrier and wanted to know if I should put a perch inside and if so, what kind of perch would be best? Should I put something in the bottom of the carrier too?

Answer: Putting just a small hand towel in the bottom of the carrier so your bird will have better footing on the bottom of the carrier should be sufficient for the trip. If you choose to put a perch inside the carrier, be sure the perch is only an inch or two above the bottom. That way, if the carrier is tilted and your bird tumbles off the perch, the fall will not be enough to cause any injuries.

The bolt on Sandy Perches or the Safety Perches can be easily used inside this carrier as the carrier has vent holes that the attaching hardware of the perches will fit through.



You can also cut a wooden dowel the width of the carrier if you prefer and drill small holes in each end, and then attach washers and screws to the ends of the dowel through the carrier holes to hold it safely in place during the trip.

Big New Cage!

Tori and Ronnie Yellow Nape Amazons got a brand new big cage this weekend! Bigger than their old one and new toys too. They also liked the willow branches very much.

Weaning can be Fun!

Baby Dusky Conure's first day in a weaning cage. Sure are lots of things to check out in this new house.

Rare Parrot Seen

Thought to be possibly extent, birdwatchers in south-east New South Wales are getting a rare glimpse of this very rare species. Hundreds have been sighted.

"The Swift Parrot usually migrates between Tasmania and the west of the Great Dividing Range but the drought has brought them to the far south coast and Monaro in search of food.

National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Robyn Kesby says there are only about a thousand breeding pairs left in Australia.

She says this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see the birds."

Sampling Saturday July 11

There is a reason why they call it "Beak" Appetit!

Today's Sampling Saturday free sample at the Nature Chest Bird Shop was Calypso Spice

Birdie Pizza

Can your bird say "Yum Yum"? Whether he or she can actually say it, or just think it, it's sure to be the topic for this delicious birdie pizza.

This pizza calls for a bean mix such as Volkman's Soak and Simmer and other great fresh ingredients.

This pizza looks so good, you may be tempted to try a taste yourself.

For Birdie Pizza Recipe click here

Hawk tries to grab Scooter

What an amazing video of how a free flying hawk that is part of a bird show, escapes and goes after the show's Cockatoo Scooter. We often hear people talk about taking their birds outside to play, or even to free fly them. This video brings home the danger lurking everywhere.

See video here

Baby Dusky Conure

Baby Dusky Conure learning how yummy apples can be.

Fresh Corn on the Cob

Just sharing some fresh corn from the farmers market with all the birdies this 4th of July holiday and wanted to share how simple it is to fix for your birds.

12 Fresh ears of corn
big pot
lots of water



Husk corn ears and clean silks off. Break off ends that may have worm damage. Place ears in very big pot of water. Bring water to a boil and cook approximately 10 minutes. Remove from stove. Cool ears and then cut into 1-2 inch size slices and place in freezer bags. We fill sandwich size bags and then place these bags into a larger freezer bag. Makes it very easy to just grab a small baggie a day for the birds.

How to feed: Thaw corn circles out by placing in hot water for about 10 minutes. Feed as soon as corn is cool.

Great Fun!

Parrot=1 Mini Blind=0

This is what happens when my human does not open my mini blinds like she is supposed to so I can see out.

Do you think I look like I'm sorry?

Not a chance!

Parrot Enrichment

Found this site to have some really good information for all you parrot lovers out there. Check out Parrot Enrichment

Parrots of the Caribbean

Parrots of the Caribbean
If you have heard of Bonaire at all, you may think of it as a haven for scuba divers or, maybe, loggerhead turtles. But this tiny island might also offer the best chance of survival or the yellow-shouldered Amazon parrot.
By Ted O’Callahan/Photography by Kim Hubbard

Wow, what a wonderful article on how they are trying to save these parrots.

Calling all Photo Buffs

Think you take spectacular pictures? Well, if you do, or if you just enjoy taking pictures for the fun of it, why not enter the Nature Conservancy's 2009 Photo Contest. And even if you don't want to enter your own picture, be sure to check out the fabulous photos from last year. They will make your day!
Nature Conservancy 2009 Photo Contest.<

Pet of the Day

We found this really cool site called "Pet of the Day". Today's special pet is Kippie a 6 year old Gold Cap Conure parrot. What a sweetie!
Read about Kippie here at:
Kippe The Gold Cap Conure

Friendly Kitty Cities

Although our passion is parrots, we love all creatures. We thought this was interesting info for all the cat lovers out there. According to CATalyst Council located in Kansas City, MO, the top cat cities in the United States are:

Tampa, Phoenix, San Francisco, Portland, Denver, Boston, Seattle, San Diego, Atlanta, and Minneapolis.

Honorable mention went to Ithaco, NY.