Eight things to consider before buying a bird

Birds can make wonderful companions, but they’re not necessarily “easy” pets and owning one comes with its own unique set of challenges and responsibilities.

Here are some key points to consider before you take the leap.

Birds need attention

Birds are intelligent, sociable creatures and need interaction with others to thrive – a few toys in their cage simply won’t provide sufficient stimulation and those who are left alone too often, for too long can get destructive. If you want your bird to be tame, you will need to handle it gently daily.

Caring for them takes time

Birds need a nourishing diet (gone are the days when seeds sufficed – to raise a healthy bird, you need high-quality, age-appropriate pellets and veggies) and fresh water daily. They also require a clean cage and supervised time outside of it each day, as well as help with grooming.

They need space

Birds need space to stretch their wings, move and play (it helps to combat boredom), so make sure you have space for a large cage. The bigger the bird, the bigger the space requirement…

Birds are noisy

Not all bird sounds are melodic and listening to screams and squawks comes with the territory. Also, talking birds are fun in theory, but can be a nightmare for your neighbours if you live in a flat or townhouse. Then of course there’s the fact that all birds rise early… Bottom line: if you love peace and quiet – and late lie-ins – a bird is possibly not for you.

Birds are naturally messy

They fling food and drop faeces and feathers, so be prepared to clean up after your winged pet regularly! Vacuum around their cage, and dust and sweet to prevent germs, odours, and mess from spreading.

Birds tend to chew

Birds instinctively chew as a way to keep their beaks in good condition, but it does mean that everything, from the wood, paper and plastic in their cage, to your plants, furniture and curtains outside are at risk! The solution is to provide plenty of toys for them to destroy instead. On that note, remember also that all birds bite…

Birds are sensitive to smell

Birds have a sensitive respiratory system and can become unwell quickly if exposed to fumes and other toxins, so be mindful if you smoke, burn scented candles, diffuse essential oils or use air fresheners. Non-stick cookware and Teflon also pose health risks to birds.

Birds live a long time

Like all pets, birds are a long-term commitment: small birds such as budgies can live up to eight years, while large birds like parrots have been known to survive well past the age of 60. Be prepared to provide a steady, stable home for decades…