Your Starter Guide for
Buying a Bird / Parrot / Parakeet
Before thinking about purchasing your first bird, there are a few things to take into consideration.
Birds come in all sizes and all require different but if not similar lifestyles to each other. Knowing how big they will turn out to be when they are adults and what varieties of foods they need to eat are very important in keeping one fit and healthy.
Types of birds
There are many species and types birds available to us in New Zealand such as Budgies, Cockatiels, Ring necks, Parakeets and even the larger Parrots. Smaller birds such as Finches, Canaries and Quails are also a favourite amongst the hobbyist.
Cages
Bird cages come in a variety of shapes and sizes such as Rectangular, Round, Square and Hexagonal. They can be tall, short or long so knowing what breed and species of bird you are wanting to purchase will help you to decide what cage will be suitable for a long and healthy life.
Foods
Not all birds eat the same foods such as a variety of seeds, but some also require a special blend of nectars and wet foods. Knowing the correct foods to give your bird is very important for their digestive system and especially knowing what foods not to feed is of utmost importance. Fresh fruits and vegetables are always great to have on hand as well as plenty of fresh and clean water every day.
Accessories
There are many types of toys and accessories that can be provided to your bird in order to limit boredom and frustration. Birds are very inquisitive animals and love to explore different object and toys that have been given to them. Accessories such as Mirrors, bells and ropes are a fantastic way to entertain as well as bird baths and swings. Most toys help birds to keep their claws and beaks in tip top shape. Having things such as cuttlefish and tonic bells not only help with their beaks but also supply them with nutrients and minerals that they cannot produce themselves.
