Hand Fed Bird Care Guide
Congratulations on your decision to bring a new hand fed bird into your home. The following will help your bird settle in as quickly and comfortably as possible.SETTING UP YOUR NEW CAGE
A hand fed bird like a Parrot requires a lot of room in their cage for adequate housing. They should have a minimum of two perches in their cage.
If possible, try to acquire perches made up of different materials (such as rope, natural wood or cement) and sizes to keep your bird's feet in good condition.
Toys are very important in a parrot's life as they provide them with mental stimulation as well as something to do when they are not out of their cage. Two or three toys are recommended as a minimum however they should be changed at least once a month.
This will give the bird a wide variety of exposure to different things. It is also important not to overcrowd the cage with too many accessories. Your bird will welcome more space rather than a cramped environment.
BRINGING YOUR NEW BIRD HOME
As soon as you arrive home put your bird in it's cage and let it get used to it's new environment. Be sure the cage is placed in a spot that allows the bird to freely see, and feel it is a part of the family activity, but out of the way of constant traffic.
Many birds enjoy being close to a window, which is fine, as long as there are no drafts and no chance of the bird overheating. If you plan on placing your cage in the kitchen, make sure it is far away from the stove, and that the room is well ventilated.
Teflon coated pans (when used) can excrete a gas into the air that is very dangerous for birds.
Once your bird has adapted to its new home it should be alert and active.
HANDLING
You should let your bird out every day for exercise and amusement. During this time you should NOT leave the bird alone. Constant supervision is always required since parrots are curious animals.
You should also have a schedule to follow which would include the time(s) you let your bird out of its cage, feeding, as well as cleaning. This way the bird will know what to expect during the course of the day. By doing this you will decrease the stress of the bird being in its cage (if any).
All birds will test their authority at least once in their life by being nippy. If this happens punish your bird right after the deed was done by putting the bird on the floor for a moment and repeating a simple command such as "no".
This will teach the bird that, even though it is a member of the family, there are some things it cannot do. Do not pull away if your bird bites! This only makes the problem into a game for your pet, eventually he's going to win!
