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Looking for a pet? Birds might make a great option
A lot of people have cats and dogs, but did you know birds can be fun pets too?
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By Kathy Hanrahan, WRAL lifestyle editor
RALEIGH, N.C. — A lot of people have cats and dogs, but did you know birds can be fun pets too?
When I was a kid, I had two birds. One died and one went blind, but my grandma's bird, a cockatiel named "Baby," lived for a long time. She even made sounds like she was talking at times. My grandma swore she used to say "baby" and "grandma."
To find out more about birds as pets, I reached out to local Dr. Dan Johnson of Avian and Exotic Animal Care in Raleigh. He is affiliated with the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association.
Read my Q&A with Dr. Johnson below:
People tend to have dogs and cats as pets, you don't hear as much about birds as pets. Why do you think that is?
Dr. Johnson: Dogs and cats are both more common as pets than birds are, so you see and hear more about them as a result. However, believe me, there are many pet bird owners out there. A veterinarian only has to agree to see birds in order to find this out.
What kinds of birds make great pets for families? What are the most common pet bird species?
Dr. Johnson: Most pet birds are members of the parrot family. Known as "Psittacines," this group ranges from tiny parakeets to large macaws. Some of the most popular pet birds include budgerigars ("budgies"), cockatiels, lovebirds, conures, Amazon parrots, African grey parrots, cockatoos and macaws. Smaller birds generally make better pets for novice owners, while large birds tend to be better suited to more experienced owners.
What do first time bird owners need to know? Are there vaccinations? Startup costs for the cage, food?
Dr. Johnson: First time bird owners should do their research. I don't recommend getting a bird as a spontaneous purchase. Learn what kind of bird is best for you by reading what others have to say. One of the first things to do is get your new bird examined by a qualified veterinarian. The website for the Association of Avian Veterinarians (aav.org) has a "Find a Vet" feature as well as care sheets covering many important topics on avian health. Aside from the cost of the bird, which could range from $75 to several thousand, you need a cage, perches, food and water bowls, cage toys, etc. Setting a bird up correctly can range from several hundred to well above a thousand dollars.
How long do the most common pet bird species live?
Dr. Johnson: Smaller birds like budgies and lovebirds usually live about 8-12 years, while medium-sized birds like cockatiels and conures can live 20-30 years. Larger parrot species live anywhere from 35 to 70 years or more.
What should you never feed your bird?
Dr. Johnson: Avocado is probably the one food everyone will agree is toxic to birds. If enough is ingested, affected birds generally develop difficulty breathing. Other items birds should avoid include alcohol, chocolate and caffeine.
Where is the best place to keep your pet bird?
Dr. Johnson: Birds are usually happiest when they are kept near the family where the action is. This might be the den, living room, kitchen, or sunroom. Birds are typically noisy and messy, which means some birds end up relegated to their own room away from the family, which is not ideal.
Why do birds make great pets?
Dr. Johnson: Birds make great pets for people who are willing to spend the time caring for and socializing with them. Parrots can be good company for those who want a companion. Most parrots are affectionate and crave attention. Many species can talk, which adds to their allure. They are interesting, entertaining, and live a relatively long time. Most are also beautiful to look at.
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