When people call me looking for a new bird, I ask them if this is their first bird. If it is then I try to educate them on the importance of proper bird care and the long term commitment that they require. Since some birds can live past 50 years you need to make sure that is the kind of pet you are really looking for. Here are some pointers you should check out before investing in a new bird.

• It is best to get a very young bird. Training will be easier on both of you. I really believe it is better to purchase your bird from a breeder. Check out your local Aviaries and see how the birds are being raised

• Let the bird pick you. No joke! If you pick out a bird that you like, it don't mean it will like you. There is nothing worst then getting a bird that dislikes you. Birds have personalities as we do. They pick out people they like and they may be aggressive or shy away from someone they dont like.

• Always have your bird Vet checked at least once a year.  It's amazing how folks have their car checked out regularly, but totally ignore their bird! 

• Be sure you get the proper size cage.   It should be large enough for your bird to get some exercise their wings. 

• Birds love to play with toys!  Load up on lots of them.

• Large birds like to chew.  Unless you want to replace wooden perches every other week, get some wooden blocks.  Hang them on chains and the birds will love them!

• Keep your bird's wings clipped. If you are going to have it for a pet you don't want him finding out what a ceiling fan feels like.   It's not uncommon for a bird to get out of it's cage and fly out an open door or window.   If a bird gets loose out side you may never get it back. (We have had it happen to us before.)  Other dangers are flying into windows, or into the kitchen where you are cooking on hot stoves.  We have had some close calls there too.  There are pros and cons about wing clipping, but our birds have to be clipped.   I am not taking any chances on loosing one again.

• Pay attention to your bird's eating habits and behavior. Watch for changes. When a bird gets sick nature forces them to hide their illnesses. But the time the bird shows that it is sick, it may be too late to get it medical help.

• It important that you carry info on you that would tell an emergency official that you have a bird or birds at home that need some one to check on them. It would be terrible to be in a bad accident and  no one knows you have pets at home depending on you.

• You should always have arrangements made for someone to take are care for your bird should you die. It isn't a pleasant thought but remember that bigger birds have a long life span, and you want to make sure that you do have someone who will love and care for your bird as you do!

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