#African Grey parrot social needs

[tiktokparrot]

Comprehensive Overview of African Grey Parrots!

Discover the extraordinary African Grey parrot: intelligent, endangered, and captivating. Learn about their remarkable abilities, care needs, and conservation efforts. Explore now!

[draconym]

Do you have any experience working with budgies? I really wanna get a pet bird of some type, but I only have experience with pet dogs. So, I was doing research and budgies looked like a solid option. I heard that African Greys are only birds you get if you, have, like, a lot of experience with bird care, so, really any advice for general bird care or a good direction for resources or what to expect would be appreciated.

I don’t! But I’ve known people who had budgies and they’re delightful little fellows. Like all parrots, they’re clever and long-lived (for their size) and very social. I think they’re underappreciated because they’re small.

Unfortunately many people see budgies as disposable and think they’re “easier” to care for, but I suspect this is because it’s less evident when they’re bored or neglected: they don’t scream as loudly, bite as hard, or destroy housewares as easily as larger birds. But they do need toys and exercise and interaction to a similar degree.

I think that a lot of folks who go out and buy large parrots would actually be happier living with a budgie or cockatiel. They’re incredibly intelligent and they have big personalities, and they’re generally safer to interact with. Because of their smaller size, it’s easier to house more than one bird in the average home and meet their needs for companionship and exercise.

Folks with budgie experience, feel free to chime in: what knowledge would you impart to someone considering a pet budgie?

[bomberqueen17]

the gay dolphins are too powerful

yesterday i was facing the facts that i do need to actually work out the technical mcguffins in this novel. like, i have some vague notion that there's a problem with the radio network because of solar flares and our heroes are going to... somehow... fix it. idk.

plot and worldbuilding wittering behind the cut

this was the main plot in the solarpunk mammoths novel too, and i had a vague notion that a problem on such a global scale as that would need to like. it would need to be solved by more than one person. and so my nebulous notion is that possibly several sets of characters could work on it in these loosely-connected novels where really i'm just exploring different ecosystems.

idk i just-- y'all know about the Turkey City Lexicon right? I got it as a hand-out in college creative writing class and of course it reshaped my brain, but. one of the Tropes To Beware they've got is the Cozy Catastrophe, which is startlingly prevalent and once you see it you can't unsee-- "the world is ending! all of humanity will die! unless... Jeff and Suzy, you're our only hope!" and our two everyman protagonists somehow are the only resources the entire world can muster and honestly the entire world seems to consist of one American city block with about three hundred people in it at most. Hm.

so i was like yah this catastrophe is way too cozy.

meanwhile i forget how it came up but @sonnetsandsinging, helpfully spitballing, said something about space whales and i was like

OMG in a world with genetically-engineered mammoths with radio collars that translate their brain waves to allow them to speak in human language it is ABSURD that they are the only species of animal that has been given this treatment

so like. what other animals do we try to talk to all the time besides elephants?

DOLPHINS

so now this world has genetically-engineered dolphins with brainwaves-to-speech dorsal fin attachments. like duh of course it does. i can't believe I hadn't thought of that.

there should be other animals too but i can't decide which ones, currently taking submissions. What Else Should Slightly-Disconcertingly Speak.

(My criteria: should be an animal intelligent enough to have successful communication with humans already, something relatively long-lived, something that couldn't use sign language or other methods already. My concept, which is not scientific really, is that it's been well-studied that while many animals have complex communication systems, humans are the only ones whose brains are structured specifically for language, so the Magic Fictional Science here is that they've had that ability genetically-engineered in, but of course the physical production of human-intelligible language is beyond the physical structure of most animals, hence the brainwave-interface collars. which btw could also be used on profoundly disabled humans, and that might be a plot point at some point; i do have some disabled characters in this story. I know I researched those like, communication board things that nonverbal humans can use and I settled on Magical Radio-Networked Interfaces that speak out loud instead for the simple expedient of streamlining things because like how is a mammoth going to carry a communication board around that it can like get out and point at. how is a dolphin going to carry anything. so, this is just where I ended up.)

(I was thinking parrots but then parrots wouldn't need the collar because they can actually make human-speech noises on their own. so that's a fun variation. maybe in this world african grey parrots actually just talk.)

Anyway back when I first started the solarpunk mammoths novel I researched Asian elephants a lot and studied their social structures and read up on their physical abilities etc., so in between trying to find out how radio waves and semiconductors work (i get the radio waves thing & think i have my mcguffin sorted out but semiconductors made my eyes glaze over and then begin weeping so i gave up) (also supercapacitors i don't understand u sorry bye) (do i know any electronics engineers who want to explain this in normal languages? shit i do know a chemical engineer maybe she knows. heck) ... ok i wandered away from this post to text her and then forgot i was making it. i did not get a lot of sleep last night the amphetamines are not being kind this go-round but i must continue the experiment. uhhhhh where was i

GAY DOLPHINS

too powerful

Yeah so I started researching dolphins, because if I'm going to have named-and-speaking dolphin characters, I need to know a little bit about how they work.

Now I have a slight head-start on this, just as I did on mammoths. Mammoths, I've been obsessed with since I was a toddler. But dolphins. For a while I used to go to SCA camping events and there was this guy who used to be a Navy diver and then worked for Sea World and he. well he was really good at telling stories, was his deal. And he had Seen Some Shit, and some of that shit was about interacting with dolphins. And the thing about dolphins is that. Well, they're violent little chaos gremlins, and just in the course of going about their normal lives, one of the things they do to interact with the world is, well. they have sex with things.

when they do this to people it is generally not a positive experience for the person. but. so i knew that going in. and most of the information on the internet about dolphins is really like. earnest and loving and whatever, which is great. but the thing is that dolphins are chaos gremlins who will fuck anything they can't eat, eat anything they can't fuck, or sometimes do both to the same unfortunate object if it proves to be possible.

what i'm saying is, these are going to be really entertaining characters to work with. because elephants, conversely, do not have recreational sex. they do a lot of things, but they just don't really do that. so dolphins are like. inverse-elephants, culturally.

Elephants also tend to have a strong matriarch, strong bonds between females, and then the males tend to be largely solitary, but will congregate more loosely, often around an older male who will teach them manners. (A well-mannered bull is MUCH more likely to be allowed to mate with desirable females, who have little patience with male foibles.)

Dolphins have looser gender roles; on the whole, the females tend to loosely congregate, and pregnant females usually go back to their mother's pod to birth and raise young, not dissimilar to elephants, but the males--

male dolphins very, very frequently will pair-bond. Two males of similar age-- adult males have very little to do with juveniles of either sex, generally-- will pair-bond and will be inseparable for the rest of their lives. If one of them dies, the other will mourn-- mourning behavior is well-documented in dolphins-- and then will seek to pair off with another adult male, because male dolphins prefer to work in pairs, for survival and companionship. (Dolphin "pods" are also more loosely-organized than elephant herds; dolphins will have a couple of core companions, but then will freely associate and disassociate with other individuals and groups over short periods of time without much fuss, depending on the situation.)

The pair-bonded males are the ones who in the wild do the behavior you see in shows, where they do like synchronized jumps and very-close fast-precise swimming and such, which in the wild are apparently courtship or threat displays-- i.e. "look how tight we are, you can't fight us" or, alternately, "isn't that hot" because

yes that's often how they court females. The pair will corral a desirable female and herd her away from other dolphins so they can both mate with her, and keep her from mating with anybody else.

(other females have been observed collaborating to free a corralled female who did not want this to happen, so it's not quite as rapey as it sounds. though, i mean. dolphins. what can you do.)

anyway dolphin threesomes are canon. but that derailed the rest of my night and i was unable to concentrate on anything else because the gay-- I should say really bisexual dolphins are too powerful.

so anyway i wrote a test scene with a dolphin character, and i had my main character take his wife and baby down to the jetty to introduce them to his dolphin pals, and a bonded male pair he'd known for years showed up and immediately tried to steal the wife, and then expressed shock that he didn't have his male best friend with him, because in their experience breeding was THEE most important time to have your buddy with you. He explains that his buddy is off on a long-term work assignment, and they're like hmph next time you breed you MUST include him, it is so much easier trust us. and the wife is like hmmmmm!

henceforth i will refer to m/m/f threesomes as "dolphin style" you're welcome

[chetungwan]

As promised, we got here exactly what daemons the characters from POI would have

First: John Reese is a wolfhound. This man is the most dog-coded character I've ever seen in my life. I'm of the opinion that people default into assigning dog daemons too easily, and partly that's because none of the characters I've seen given them have been anywhere near as dog as Reese is. My sister and I first started coming up with these almost five years ago, and this was the very first we landed on.

The next one we landed on was Shaw. We waffled between panther and cougar for a bit, but panther is a little... fancy for her. Dressing up isn't exactly one of her highest priorities; she'd prefer to be on the roof with a gun. Or in a tree with a mouthful of teeth, so to speak.

Our next stop was Joss Carter and damn, but the second we came up with it, we were sold. She has a peregrine falcon. Bird of prey endemic to NYC, something beautiful and fierce.

After that, we tossed around a few ideas but didn't settle on anything until now, years later. One walk through the rain and suddenly we put all the pieces together

First, we had ideas about a serval for Root, but it didn't quite fit. We were trying to parallel Shaw with a cat, but in the end, it makes more sense to parallel Finch. So of course she has a bird! An African grey parrot, something brutally intelligent and honestly, often mistreated. And since she's paralleling him by having a bird like his names, that leaves us free to pick what the hell ever for his daemon

I had insect vibes for him, but I couldn't think of anything known for intelligence. We floated a bee or an ant, but. He's not exact social. Then my sister suggested. Well. Why not an entire colony of ants. And you know what, yeah. Hell yeah. Finch's daemon is an entire colony of ants. Pullman isn't exactly gonna show up to tell us no.

Elias is next, and he gets to parallel both Finch and Carter! Like Finch's names, he has a bird, and like Carter he has a bird endemic to NYC. He has a rock dove, otherwise known as a common pigeon. He needs something innocuous that can fly (ha) under the radar

His right-hand man, Antony aka Scarface, gets a fisher. It was my sister's first thought for Elias, but it fits better for him. Something small and extremely vicious.

Lastly, we debated over Fusco for a long while. He kinda has dog energy, but. Well. No one can match Reese on that front. Eventually, we settle on a very large, kinda scraggly grey tabby cat. Sorta like a Maine coon, but without the pedigree.

[tinylilemrys]

15 questions, 15 mutuals

I was tagged by the extraordinary @beckstraordinary 💛🌻

were you named after anyone?

nope, in fact my planned name was changed at the last second so there would be no confusion that i wasn't.

when was the last time you cried?

last night, rewatching ted lasso.

do you have kids?

no and i probably won't.

do you use sarcasm a lot?

i think i believe i'm more sarcastic than i actually am.

what's the first thing you notice about people?

vibes honestly. i'm pretty socially anxious so i'm usually trying to suss them out before we speak.

what's your eye color?

blue

scary movies or happy endings?

happy endings always

any special talents?

singing, songwriting, writing in general.

where were you born?

cape town babeyyy

what are your hobbies?

singing, songwriting, writing, drawing, painting, knitting, sewing. basically anything that keeps my hand busy for a while.

have any pets?

yeah! a yellow lab, an orange cat, and two african grey parrots

what sports do you play/have you played?

i don't play sports currently, but i used to do gymnastics and netball

how tall are you?

1.65 metres

favorite subject in school?

english, art, music, afrikaans (sometimes), and biology

dream job?

anything that would let me do music full time. i really don't need to be famous – i just want to earn enough to support myself and be able to make music as much as i want.

tagging (only if you want to – this is always a no-pressure zone 💛):

@ashesandback @asingerofdreams @astrallouis @ascoolasafirepit @thistableforone @annundriel @shenergyx @clotpolesonly @marvelous-goose @snake-and-mouse @callipigio @dollopheadsandclotpoles @shit-happens-bitchachos @crimmcakes @lierdumoa

[system-of-a-feather]

A small tip of perspective for those that struggle to navigate their own needs but are animal lovers / pet parents, try to approach yourself and your needs (and for systems, parts and system needs) as if you were trying to understand a specific needs profile of a breed / version of the pet aren't the most aware of and don't have the ability to look up. I don't know how well this applies to non-dog/bird species, but largely in birds and dogs, there is a large variety of needs depending on the species / breed you get and even within species and breeds. What one needs is going to be drastically different from the other

What sort of enrichment is necessary to make this animal happy and able to live to the most of their natural behavioral capabilities? What sort of social exposure and activity does this animal need to meet their needs and make sure they have an enriched life? What have they been eating? Has it been one same meal over and over again beyond the point of enjoying it still? When was the last time things were changed up? When was the last time they were bathed or given the opportunity to see something new?

Largely our system is a bird, and like any bird, you really can't keep them in a cage all day so we have system rules that we should try to leave the house every day for at least an hour and preferably go somewhere that has something to look at that we haven't done in a while. We call this the "Fly the Coop" time and its just a general welfare rule. Treat the bird in our brain like the bird it is and give it it's "outside time" because not giving a bird that would be very bad for them.

We also are a parrot to be specific so it is very important to give us something to work on, a puzzle to figure out, and active mental stimuli and enrichment. We have a very high curious and drive to learn and figure things out, so like any particularly curious parrot, its important to lay out a number of activities, problems, and puzzles for us to figure out and build on - as a result it is important for us to always have a list of skills and problem solving and creation related things availible for us to engage with.

We are also very social but we aren't so much the active cuddler (save for specific parts) and active affectionate type, so much as we are more around the ways of an African Grey or Cockatiel that needs passive company and benefits from a mutually engaged environment; so it is important to have people (or birds for our case as it fills the need) around us doing their own thing and even better if they are also engaged as it lets us relax in an engaged state. Mutual engagement is one of the solid bonding activities. Additionally, we fill our social needs often in the form of social bathing, social eating, and general social cleaning / preening, so when possible, its good to put ourselves in environments where others are doing similar and/or bring our close people and our birds into those activities with us.

Routine is highly important to us as well which again is a good parallel to parrots so we keep that in mind.

With the general frame work, we can really easily apply a mental check list / needs list by largely applying a "welfare and needs" marker for a "non-existant parrot" and apply that to ourselves so rather than trying to figure out what "We Need", we can just make sure we have made sure the parrot need profile in our head has been met.

Largely following the general caresheet for the specific type of parrot that we are has honestly led to a lot better self care and day to day management of our mental, psychological, and physical health so its a perspective thing I do recommend.

[factsabouteverythingseo]

PARROT OVERVIEW

PARROT FOR SALE

Parrots are a diverse group of birds known for their intelligence, vibrant plumage, and ability to mimic sounds and human speech. They belong to the order Psittaciformes, which includes more than 393 species.

Here are some general characteristics and information about parrots:

1. Size and Appearance: Parrots come in various sizes, ranging from small species like the Budgerigar (parakeet) to large ones like the Hyacinth Macaw. They have strong, curved beaks, zygodactyl feet (two toes facing forward and two toes facing backward), and a short, hooked upper beak. Their plumage displays a wide array of colors, including vibrant greens, blues, reds, yellows, and more.

2. Intelligence and Mimicry: Parrots are renowned for their high level of intelligence. They have complex problem-solving abilities, keen observational skills, and the capacity to learn and mimic sounds, including human speech. Some species, such as the African Grey Parrot, are particularly known for their exceptional language and cognitive abilities.

3. Natural Habitat: Parrots are found in various regions around the world, primarily in tropical and subtropical areas. They inhabit diverse habitats, including rainforests, savannas, woodlands, and deserts. Parrots are native to regions such as Central and South America, Australia, Africa, and Asia.

4. Diet: Parrots have a varied diet consisting of fruits, seeds, nuts, berries, flowers, and in some cases, nectar and pollen. Some parrot species also supplement their diet with insects, larvae, or small vertebrates. In captivity, it’s important to offer a balanced diet that includes high-quality pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats.

5. Lifespan: The lifespan of parrots varies greatly depending on the species. Smaller parrots, like Budgerigars, may live around 5 to 10 years, while larger species, such as Macaws and Cockatoos, can live for several decades. Some parrots, like the African Grey Parrot, have been known to live beyond 50 years with proper care.

6. Social Behavior: Parrots are highly social creatures that thrive on social interaction and companionship. In the wild, they often form flocks and engage in complex social behaviors. In captivity, it is important to provide parrots with ample socialization, mental stimulation, and opportunities for social interaction with their human caretakers.

7. Care and Ownership: Owning a parrot requires commitment and dedication. They need a spacious and enriched environment, including a properly sized cage, perches of various sizes and textures, and toys to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and mental engagement are necessary for their well-being.

It’s important to note that parrots are long-lived, highly intelligent, and social animals that require significant time, attention, and care. Before considering a parrot as a pet, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the specific needs of the species you are interested in and ensure that you can provide them with the appropriate environment and care throughout their lifespan.

There are several species of parrots that are commonly kept as pets due to their appealing traits, including their intelligence, ability to mimic sounds, and colorful plumage.

Here are some examples of popular parrot species kept as pets:

1. Budgerigar (Parakeet): Budgerigars, often referred to as parakeets, are small parrots native to Australia. They are known for their playful and social nature, ease of care, and ability to learn simple tricks. Budgerigars are available in a variety of colors and can be great companions for first-time bird owners.

2. Cockatiel: Cockatiels are small to medium-sized parrots native to Australia. They are known for their charming crests, friendly personalities, and ability to whistle and mimic sounds. Cockatiels are relatively low-maintenance birds and can bond closely with their human caretakers.

3. African Grey Parrot: African Grey Parrots are highly intelligent parrots native to the rainforests of West and Central Africa. They are known for their exceptional talking and mimicking abilities, as well as their complex problem-solving skills. African Grey Parrots require a significant amount of mental stimulation and social interaction.

4. Amazon Parrot: Amazon Parrots are medium-sized parrots native to Central and South America. They come in a variety of colors, and some species are known for their talking abilities. Amazon Parrots are social birds that require mental stimulation, social interaction, and consistent training.

5. Conures: Conures are a group of small to medium-sized parrots native to the Americas. They come in various colors and have playful and outgoing personalities. Popular conure species kept as pets include the Green-cheeked Conure, Sun Conure, and Nanday Conure. Conures are active birds that require regular social interaction and mental stimulation.

6. Macaws: Macaws are large parrots known for their vibrant plumage and impressive size. Popular pet macaw species include the Blue and Gold Macaw, Green-winged Macaw, and Scarlet Macaw. Macaws are highly intelligent and require ample space, socialization, and mental stimulation.

7. Cockatoos: Cockatoos are large parrots known for their crest and affectionate nature. Popular pet cockatoo species include the Umbrella Cockatoo, Moluccan Cockatoo, and Goffin’s Cockatoo. Cockatoos can be demanding pets in terms of attention and care, and they need a lot of mental stimulation and social interaction.

It’s important to note that each parrot species has specific care requirements, and potential owners should thoroughly research the needs, behavior, and lifespan of the species they are interested in before making a decision. Additionally, adopting a parrot from a reputable rescue organization or breeder is recommended to ensure the bird’s well-being and to support responsible parrot ownership.

[ausetkmt]

Yahoo News: Scientists were delighted to discover that parrots willingly made video calls to bird friends and were less lonely as a result

Researchers trained parrots to call certain birds. Later the parrots chose who they wanted to call.

The researchers were delighted when the parrots interacted with each other over the screen.

Scientists had to extensively train bird parents for this exercise. Not just anyone should try it.

Researchers have discovered that parrots are pretty much just like us when it comes to video chatting with friends.

The authors of a new study found that virtual quality time with bird friends seemed to reduce signs of loneliness in parrots and improve their lives overall.

The researchers also told Insider that they were delighted when the parrots on either end of the call interacted with each other by tapping the screen and doing activities together like preening — which means the birds were bonding.

The study's results are important for the many pet parrots who live alone with their humans and thus may not get their high social needs met.

That's because a lack of socialization for birds in the parrot family — which includes cockatoos, cockatiels, macaws, African Greys, lovebirds, budgies, and more —  can lead to harmful behaviors like picking or destroying their feathers, pacing and rocking, aggression, or excessive sleeping.

Why parrots need so much socialization

"I think birds in captivity have been misunderstood and mischaracterized for years," said Jennifer Cunha, parrot behavior expert, researcher at Northeastern University, and one of the study's authors.

Cunha added that while people often consider them ornamental, parrots are also incredibly social and intelligent animals.

For example, in the wild, parrots generally live in complex social environments, said Rébecca Kleinberger, assistant professor at Northeastern University in computer sciences and music, and another author of the study.

They tend to pair off within a larger flock of parrots and do most things, like feeding, preening, sleeping, traveling, and raising their young within this social group, Kleinberger and Cunha said.

So, when these birds live alone as pets with minimal social interaction, they have little outlet for many of their cognitive abilities.

Under-stimulated parrots may quickly become bored, frustrated, and lonely. In fact, Cunha said, some countries have made it illegal to keep only one parrot, due to their complex social needs.

The ability to make video calls to other parrots, then, may give birds the chance to access the socialization and species identity they have in the wild, Cunha said.

How the study worked

First, researchers recruited 18 parrots and their caregivers via Parrot Kindergarten — a coaching program for parrots and their caretakers that Cunha operates.

They then had a training phase where parrots learned to select another bird's photo on a tablet to start a call on Facebook Messenger — which the parrots did successfully in just a couple of weeks.

After that, parrots would ring a bell when they wanted to make a call. When their caregiver offered the tablet, they'd touch the picture of the bird they wanted to chat with.

Initially, the birds were given treats for ringing the bell and selecting a bird "friend," but after the training period, they stopped getting treats. The researchers were happily surprised by how quickly the birds picked up the method for calling one another voluntarily.

Researchers were also delighted to see the parrots engaging with the video calls by following the birds on the other side of the screen, both visually and by directly touching the tablet.

Many birds mirrored behaviors they saw their friends do, like foraging, preening, and flying.

"Throughout the study we observed a diversity of social behaviors, from preening together and sleeping together on-screen to vocalizing," Kleinberger said.

What's more, the more calls a parrot received, the more they wanted to call others, said Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas, computer science lecturer at the University of Glasgow and study co-author.

"They developed favorite parrots to call, and most parrots would engage with the system for the maximum amount of time," Hirskyj-Douglas said.

Parrots could make two calls a day, with each call lasting no more than five minutes. The researchers set this time limit for safety and ethical reasons and to minimize the time commitment for caregivers.

Kleinberger added that the sheer number of calls made by the parrots — 147 in all — seemed to support their interest and engagement with the bird on the other side of the screen.

Video chats had a lot of benefits for parrots

All of the parrot caretakers involved said their bird had a positive experience with video calling, the study said.

Some caretakers said their birds reacted to their video friends the same way they'd react to real people or birds. One caretaker said their bird even called "Come back!" when the other bird walked off-screen.

All but one of the caretakers said they believed their parrot got more out of the video chat than simple enjoyment. For instance, one parrot seemed to gain confidence and began flying more. Others seemed calmer in general, the study said.

Video calling won't work for every parrot

The researchers extensively trained the parrot caretakers who participated in the study, Cunha said.

Video calling itself has to be conducted in a sensitive, ethical manner, to slowly introduce the technology and make sure there are no fear reactions, Hirskyj-Douglas added.

Parrot caregivers learned, for instance, to recognize signs of stress during the video calls and offer encouragement to help reduce any fear associated with the new experience.

Caregivers would also end the call if their bird seemed uncomfortable or walked away from the calling zone, Hirskyj-Douglas said. That way, the parrots learned they could simply walk away if they didn't want to interact.

Forced socialization isn't in any parrot's best interest. The researchers released three parrots from the study in its early stages, as these birds didn't seem to like the calls at all.

But most of the parrots apparently enjoyed the experience and chose to make plenty of calls to other birds.

The study authors acknowledge the need for additional research, as this study is the first exploring video calling for parrots. That said, they believe video calling could become an important way to help isolated parrots build and maintain important connections with other members of their species — just as it does for people.

Read the original article on Business Insider

[marklofie]

Everything You Need to Know About the Dusky Conure (Dusky-Headed Conure)

Introduction

Dusky conures, also known as dusky-headed conures (Aratinga Weddellii), are beautiful and fascinating parrot species popular among bird enthusiasts and pet owners. These small-to-medium-sized birds are native to the tropical rainforests of South America, specifically found in regions of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Known for their playful personalities and striking appearance, they make excellent pets for bird lovers. In this article, we will delve into everything there is to know about the dusky conure, including its natural habitat, physical characteristics, care requirements, and more.

Natural Habitat and Distribution of Dusky Conures

The dusky conure or dusky-headed conure thrives in the humid lowland rainforests of the Amazon Basin. These birds are typically found at elevations of up to 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) above sea level, residing in both primary and secondary forests. In the wild, they prefer the canopy layer of the forest, where they can forage for fruits, seeds, and vegetation while remaining relatively safe from predators.

Dusky conures live in large flocks, sometimes consisting of 30 or more individuals, allowing them to socialize and stay protected. The group dynamics help them navigate through their habitat as they travel in search of food and shelter. Flocks of dusky-headed conures are a common sight in the treetops of South American forests.

Physical Characteristics of the Dusky Conure

The dusky conure is a visually appealing bird with distinct characteristics that set it apart from other conure species. Adult dusky-headed conures measure around 11 to 12 inches in length, including their tail, and weigh between 90 and 120 grams. Their average lifespan ranges from 20 to 30 years with proper care, although some individuals may live longer in captivity.

The plumage of the dusky conure is primarily green, with subtle variations in shading across its body. Its name comes from its unique head coloration, which is a soft grayish-brown or dusky hue. The head contrasts with the vibrant green feathers on the wings and body, making the bird easily recognizable. They also have splashes of blue feathers on the flight feathers, tail, and wings, further enhancing their striking appearance.

Another feature of the dusky-headed conure is its bare, pale skin around the eyes, often referred to as the “eye ring,” which is surrounded by bright, expressive eyes. Their beaks are dark and slightly curved, ideal for cracking seeds and nuts.

Dusky Conure Behavior and Personality

Dusky conures are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They are social birds that thrive on interaction, making them ideal pets for individuals or families who are willing to devote time and attention to their care. These birds are playful, energetic, and curious, often exploring their surroundings and engaging with toys and activities in their environment.

Due to their highly social nature, dusky-headed conures bond strongly with their owners. In captivity, they require regular interaction and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. They are known to be affectionate birds that enjoy sitting on their owners' shoulders or being involved in daily activities. Their friendly disposition makes them easy to train, and they can learn a variety of tricks and behaviors through positive reinforcement methods.

While dusky conures are not as vocal as some other parrot species, they are still capable of producing a range of sounds. Their calls tend to be loud and high-pitched, which is typical of many conures, but they are less prone to constant screaming or excessive noise. Some dusky-headed conures may learn to mimic words or sounds, though they are not known for being expert talkers compared to other parrots like African greys or cockatiels.

Housing and Cage Requirements for Dusky Conures

One of the most important aspects of dusky conure care is providing them with a suitable living environment. As active birds, dusky conures require a spacious cage that allows them to move around freely and exercise. The minimum cage size recommended for a dusky-headed conure is 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 30 inches high, with bar spacing of no more than ¾ of an inch to prevent escape or injury.

Within the cage, it is essential to provide plenty of perches, toys, and activities to keep the bird entertained and mentally stimulated. Conures enjoy chewing, climbing, and exploring, so a variety of bird-safe toys, swings, ladders, and foraging materials should be available. Rotate toys regularly to prevent boredom.

Dusky conures also need time outside of their cage to exercise and socialize. It is recommended to allow them at least a few hours of supervised out-of-cage time each day to fly, stretch their wings, and interact with their owners. A safe, bird-proofed area should be provided for this purpose, as these curious birds may explore electrical cords, furniture, or other potentially hazardous objects.

Diet and Nutrition for Dusky Conures

A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial to keeping dusky conures healthy. In the wild, these birds feed on a variety of fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetation. In captivity, it is essential to replicate this diverse diet to ensure proper nutrition.

A high-quality commercial pellet should form the foundation of a dusky conure's diet. Pellets are specially formulated to provide essential vitamins and minerals, reducing the risk of nutritional deficiencies. However, pellets alone are not enough, and they should be supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seeds.

Dusky-headed conures enjoy a wide variety of fresh produce, including leafy greens (like kale, spinach, and lettuce), carrots, peppers, apples, berries, and citrus fruits. It is important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and remove any seeds or pits that may be harmful to birds. Additionally, nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews can be offered as occasional treats.

Seed mixes can also be part of their diet but should be given in moderation, as conures may selectively eat seeds and neglect other foods, leading to imbalances. Fresh water should always be available, and food and water dishes should be cleaned daily to prevent contamination.

Health and Common Issues in Dusky Conures

Like all pets, dusky conures are susceptible to certain health issues. By providing a clean environment, a proper diet, and regular veterinary care, many of these problems can be avoided. However, it is important to be aware of some common health concerns that can affect dusky-headed conures.

Feather Plucking: One of the most prevalent issues among conures is feather plucking, where the bird starts pulling out its feathers. This can be caused by various factors, including stress, boredom, malnutrition, or medical conditions. Ensuring mental stimulation, providing a healthy diet, and creating a stress-free environment can help prevent feather plucking.

Respiratory Infections: Dusky conures are prone to respiratory infections, which can be caused by poor air quality, drafts, or exposure to cold temperatures. Signs of respiratory illness include wheezing, sneezing, discharge from the nostrils, or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms appear, a visit to an avian vet is necessary.

Psittacosis: This bacterial infection, also known as parrot fever, can affect conures and other parrot species. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci and can lead to respiratory distress, lethargy, and diarrhea. Psittacosis is contagious to humans, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Regular vet check-ups are important to detect any health issues early. It is also vital to monitor your dusky conure for any changes in behavior, appetite, or physical appearance, as these can indicate underlying health problems.

Breeding and Reproduction of Dusky Conures

Breeding dusky-headed conures in captivity can be challenging but rewarding for experienced bird breeders. These birds reach sexual maturity around two to three years of age, and successful breeding requires the right conditions, including proper housing, diet, and care.

A nesting box should be provided in the breeding cage, as conures prefer enclosed spaces to lay their eggs. The female typically lays between three and five eggs, which she will incubate for about 23 to 26 days. During this time, the male may assist by feeding the female and guarding the nest.

Once the chicks hatch, they will be dependent on their parents for food and warmth for several weeks. It is crucial to ensure that the breeding pair is well-nourished during this period, as the health of the chicks depends on the parents' condition. Hand-rearing the chicks may be necessary in some cases, especially if the parents are inexperienced or unable to care for them properly.

Dusky Conures as Pets: Pros and Cons

Like all pets, dusky conures come with their own set of advantages and challenges. Before bringing one into your home, it's essential to consider whether they are the right fit for your lifestyle and expectations.

Pros:

Affectionate and Social: Dusky conures are known for their friendly, affectionate nature, making them great companions for those willing to spend time with them.

Moderate Noise Levels: While they can be vocal, dusky-headed conures are generally quieter than other conure species, which is a plus for apartment dwellers or people sensitive to noise.

Playful and Energetic: These birds are highly active and playful, providing hours of entertainment with their antics and curiosity.

Cons:

Attention Requirements: Dusky conures need daily interaction and mental stimulation, which can be demanding for owners with busy schedules.

Potential for Biting: Like many parrots, conures may resort to biting if they feel threatened or neglected. Proper training and socialization are essential to prevent this behavior.

Long Lifespan: Dusky-headed conures can live for several decades, so owning one is a long-term commitment that requires ongoing care and attention.

Conclusion

Dusky conures or dusky-headed conures are delightful and engaging birds that can make wonderful pets for the right owner. Their friendly nature, moderate noise levels, and playful personalities make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. However, they require a significant amount of time, attention, and care to thrive. By understanding their needs and providing a proper environment, nutrition, and mental stimulation, you can enjoy many years of companionship with these charming birds.

[pectcarepoint]

Parrots are known for their vibrant colors, intelligence, and social nature. Here’s a guide to some of the most colorful and popular parrot species:

Common Parrot Species

1. African Grey Parrot

Description: Medium-sized parrot with predominantly grey feathers and a bright red tail.

Color: Grey with a red tail.

Notable Traits: Highly intelligent and excellent at mimicking human speech.

2. Amazon Parrot

Description: Medium to large-sized parrots with predominantly green feathers and various colorful markings.

Color: Green with yellow, blue, and red markings.

Notable Traits: Known for their talking ability and playful nature.

3. Budgerigar (Budgie)

Description: Small, colorful parrot with a cheerful personality.

Color: Various colors including green, blue, yellow, and white.

Notable Traits: Popular pet birds due to their small size and vibrant colors.

You Can get more information about this article by visiting:

[rasumusalli]

Understanding Parrots: Behavior, Habits, and Care

Parrots are among the most captivating and intelligent birds in the animal kingdom. Their vibrant plumage, remarkable vocal abilities, and playful personalities make them a favorite among pet enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. This article delves into the world of parrots, exploring their behavior, natural habitats, and the care they require both in the wild and as pets.

The Fascinating World of Parrots

Parrots belong to the family Psittacidae, which encompasses around 400 species of colorful, tropical birds. These species are spread across various continents, including South America, Africa, Australia, and parts of Asia. The diversity within this family is astonishing, with variations in size, color, and vocal capabilities.

Physical Characteristics

One of the most striking features of parrots is their vibrant plumage. Colors range from brilliant greens and blues to vibrant reds and yellows. This diversity in color helps parrots blend into their natural habitats or stand out, depending on their needs. Their zygodactyl feet, which have two toes pointing forward and two backward, are adapted for gripping branches and handling food. Additionally, parrots possess a strong, curved beak ideal for cracking nuts and seeds, as well as manipulating objects.

Behavior and Social Structure

Parrots are known for their intelligence and complex social behaviors. In the wild, they live in flocks that can range from small family units to large groups of hundreds. These flocks provide social interaction, protection from predators, and assistance in finding food.

Social bonds are crucial for parrots, and their communication skills are particularly impressive. Many species are capable of mimicking human speech and other sounds they frequently hear. This mimicry is a byproduct of their highly developed vocal apparatus and cognitive abilities. In the wild, parrots use vocalizations to communicate with flock members, warn of predators, and attract mates.

Habitat and Diet

Parrots inhabit diverse environments, including tropical rainforests, savannas, and even arid regions. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, nuts, fruits, and flowers, though some species also consume insects and small animals. Their feeding habits contribute to the health of their ecosystems, as they aid in seed dispersal and plant pollination.

Parrots as Pets

Keeping a parrot as a pet can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. Parrots are long-lived animals, with many species living for 20 to 50 years, and some even surpassing this range in captivity. This longevity requires a long-term commitment from their owners.

Choosing the Right Parrot

When selecting a parrot as a pet, it’s crucial to consider the bird’s size, temperament, and care requirements. Smaller species like the Budgerigar (budgie) or Lovebird may be suitable for first-time bird owners, while larger species like the African Grey or Macaw require more space, time, and attention.

Caring for a Parrot

Diet: A balanced diet is essential for a parrot’s health. In captivity, parrots should be provided with a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-quality pellets. Avoid feeding them chocolate, caffeine, or avocado, as these can be toxic.

Social Interaction: Parrots are highly social and require regular interaction with their human companions. Daily playtime and mental stimulation are important to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. Toys, puzzles, and training sessions can help keep them engaged.

Housing: Parrots need a spacious cage that allows them to move around comfortably. The cage should be equipped with perches, toys, and access to fresh water. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain a healthy environment.

Health Care: Routine veterinary check-ups are vital to ensure a parrot’s well-being. Look out for signs of illness such as changes in eating habits, feather plucking, or lethargy. Regular grooming and beak trimming may also be required.

Training: Training a parrot can enhance its quality of life and strengthen the bond between bird and owner. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, can be used to teach various commands and tricks.

Conservation and Threats

Many parrot species are facing threats due to habitat loss, illegal trapping, and the pet trade. Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these remarkable birds and ensuring their survival for future generations. Organizations worldwide are working to preserve parrot habitats, enforce wildlife protection laws, and educate the public about responsible pet ownership.

Conclusion

Parrots are extraordinary creatures that captivate with their beauty, intelligence, and social behaviors. Whether admired in their natural habitats or cared for as pets, these birds offer a glimpse into the wonders of avian life. Understanding their needs and respecting their natural behaviors are essential steps in ensuring their well-being and conserving their populations. By fostering a greater appreciation and commitment to their care, we can help secure a brighter future for parrots around the globe.

For more visit:

https://rasumusalli.blogspot.com/2024/07/understanding-raw-parrots-guide-to.html

[ben1d]

The Complete Truth About Parrots as Pets: What You Need to Know

Parrots, known for their vibrant plumage and remarkable intelligence, are captivating creatures that have charmed bird enthusiasts for generations. As potential pet owners, it's vital to uncover the complete truth about parrots as pets to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling companionship. In this brief guide, we will unveil the essential facts and considerations that will help you make an informed decision about welcoming a parrot into your home.

Section 1: Parrot Personality and Characteristics

Parrots are renowned for their vibrant personalities and striking appearances. They exhibit traits like:

a. Intelligence: Parrots are exceptionally intelligent and can learn various tricks and even mimic human speech.

b. Long Lifespan: Parrots have a long lifespan, often living for several decades, which is a long-term commitment.

c. Social Nature: Parrots are social animals that require regular interaction and mental stimulation.

Section 2: Parrot Species Diversity

There are over 400 species of parrots, each with unique characteristics and requirements. Popular species kept as pets include the African Grey, Amazon, Cockatiel, and Budgerigar, among others. Research the specific needs and traits of the species you're interested in to make an informed choice.

Section 3: Parrot Care and Maintenance

Parrot ownership comes with responsibilities, including:

a. Diet: Parrots require a balanced diet of high-quality pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of nuts and seeds.

b. Cage and Space: Providing a spacious cage and regular out-of-cage time is essential for their well-being.

c. Mental Stimulation: Parrots need mental stimulation through toys, puzzles, and social interaction to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.

Section 4: Noise Level

One crucial aspect to be aware of is that parrots can be noisy. Their vocalizations, including squawking and mimicking sounds, can be loud and may not be suitable for quiet living environments.

Section 5: Lifelong Commitment

Parrots are a long-term commitment. Some species can live for 50 years or more. Potential owners should be prepared for a lifelong bond and the financial and emotional responsibilities that come with it.

Section 6: Legal Considerations

Check your local regulations regarding parrot ownership. Some species may be protected, and permits might be required in certain regions.

Section 7: Allergies

Parrot feathers and dander can trigger allergies in some individuals. Make sure no one in your household has severe allergies before bringing a parrot home.

Conclusion

Owning a parrot can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be aware of the complete truth about parrots as pets. Their intelligence, longevity, and social nature make them unique companions, but they also demand a high level of care and commitment. Before deciding to bring a parrot into your life, thoroughly research the species you're interested in and consider the long-term implications of their care. By understanding what you're getting into, you can create a loving and lasting bond with your feathered friend.

[allcreatureswarehouse]

Nurtured Feathers: The Charm of Hand-Reared Birds

Birds have long been cherished for their captivating beauty and melodious songs. Among the various ways to acquire a feathered friend, hand-reared birds hold a special place in the hearts of avian enthusiasts. These unique companions, raised with human care and affection, bring an extra layer of connection and charm to the world of pet birds. In this article, we'll explore the captivating allure of hand-reared birds and the joys they bring to both novice and experienced bird owners.

The Bond of Early Interaction:

Hand-reared birds, often referred to as "hand-fed" or "hand-tamed," are birds that have been raised by humans from an early age, typically from the moment they hatch or shortly thereafter. This close interaction with their human caregivers during the critical early stages of development fosters a deep and unique bond between the bird and its owner.

Trust and Affection:

One of the most notable characteristics of hand-reared birds is their high level of trust and affection toward humans. These birds are comfortable being handled, touched, and even cuddled by their owners. This intimacy creates a delightful and rewarding companionship experience, as hand-reared birds often seek out human interaction and enjoy being part of the family.

Social and Interactive:

Hand-reared birds tend to be exceptionally social and interactive. They are more likely to engage in conversation, mimic human speech or sounds, and participate in various activities with their owners. This interaction can be both entertaining and emotionally fulfilling for bird enthusiasts, as it often feels like communicating with a feathered friend.

Easier Training and Behavioral Adaptability:

Due to their early exposure to human handling, hand-reared birds are generally more receptive to training and behavioral modification. They are more likely to learn tricks, follow basic commands, and adapt to household routines. This makes them an ideal choice for families and individuals who wish to engage actively with their pet bird.

Varied Species Availability:

Hand-reared birds are available in various species, from the popular African Grey parrot and cockatiel to the exotic macaw and conure species. This diversity allows bird lovers to choose a species that matches their lifestyle, preferences, and level of experience.

Responsibility and Commitment:

While hand-reared birds offer unparalleled companionship, they also require a strong commitment from their owners. Proper care, nutrition, and social interaction are essential for maintaining the well-being and happiness of these birds. Potential bird owners should be prepared to invest time and effort into nurturing their feathered companions.

Rescue and Adoption:

It's worth noting that many hand-reared birds are available for adoption through bird rescue organizations. These birds, often rehomed due to various reasons, still possess the social and interactive qualities that make hand-reared birds so endearing. Adopting a hand-reared bird not only provides a loving home to a bird in need but also offers the rewarding experience of building a unique bond.

In conclusion, hand-reared birds are more than just pets; they are cherished members of the family. Their trusting nature, social interactions, and unique personalities make them a delightful addition to any bird lover's life. For those who seek not just a pet but a companion with whom they can share moments of joy, laughter, and connection, hand-reared birds offer a special and rewarding relationship that is truly something to cherish.

[kennyparrots]

How To Take Care Of A New African Grey Parrot: The Best Tips

Parrots are on of the most pursued pets by virtue of their astounding ability to mirror and talk works. They attract different people with their bewildering tones and social characters.

One of the most dazzling kinds of parrots anytime found is known as the African Faint Parrot. This kind of bird has an amazing ability for sorting out some way to communicate human words. In all honesty, it is seen as the smartest understudy of talk of all parrot species. This sort of parrot can have better correspondence with its owner since it is so clever. Their abilities are for more developed than most various birds, which makes them so entertaining to have as pets.

The Cheap african grey parrot for sale available to be purchased comes in two particular kinds of species. The principal arrangement is the Congo African faint, and the second is the Timneh African Dim. The viewpoint that amazingly perceives these two from one another is the shade of their tufts. The Congo Parrot has a truly red tail and the body is a grayish assortment. The Timneh Parrot differs in that the faint on its body is substantially more dark and the tail is a faint maroon. The two sorts can grow up to 14 inches long.

The principal qualification in the females and folks is the way that they have an other body structure. The male have a greater head and a greater neck, while the females have meager and more modest features. The folks will regularly moreover turn out to be fairly greater than the females, notwithstanding the way that they every so often are exactly the same size.

These birds need a colossal obligation from their owners in case they will prosper like they would in nature. A fittingly centered around African Faint can live for quite a while in the event that the owner views it as a person from the family, as opposed to just some pet. The environment you put them in should be gigantic enough that they experience no trouble opening their wings, playing with their safe toys, and moving around. A parrot that has no space to move could rely upon pecking at themselves to keep involved. This could make huge damage the bird and it is another clarification that you should continually participate and play with your parrot so it doesn't get depleted. They need an environment that is incredibly natural and an owner who can understand how to manage their necessities.

African Grays are ordinarily extremely respectful pets, yet moreover with another animal, they need express planning and much perseverance is required. Now and again, they may be morose and eat at you or bite on things around it to keep involved. Since they successfully get penchants, you ought to be careful in order to show them sure schedules quickly and make a decent endeavor to leave out the tenacious indecencies.

These birds are phenomenally affable. They love to help out people and are extremely hyper once in a while. They will set you feeling perfect on even your most clearly awful day. These parrots love to be pet and scratched in basically the same manner as. Regardless, when they live in the wild, they love to team up with their gathering. The birds will moreover return the love by truly regurgitating or endeavoring to kiss you! Unwind notwithstanding, both of these exhibitions indicate veritable affection. Notwithstanding the way that, if your bird endeavors to kiss you it is recommended that you don't allow your mouth to near it as your spit can genuinely hurt the bird.

Comparably likewise with another animal, these parrots love thought. They will not live as extended without it, indeed. Guarantee you never ignore your parrot and treat it as you would a your family member. It will be essentially assuming everything falls into place and will reside to its most extreme limit. African Grays become miserable without companionship, so if you are apparently running low on time delighted in with your bird, you should ponder buying a second one to remain with it.

Also, this will keep your parrot away from doing fiendish things, for instance, chewing and gnawing.

The most ideal way to truly sort out how fantastic parrots are is by making them one more extension to your friends and family. You will not at any point regret the things learned and the new friend that you have. They are astounding animals and are so insightful, you may essentially end up bantering with your parrot more than the rest of your friends and family!

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Buy macaw parrots online

Cockatoo parrots for sale

Buy african grey parrot

[flock-talk]

What do you think of the "Is The Owl Video Cute" blog promoting that keeping any and all parrots in captivity is unethical and wrong? I worry they are spreading significant misinformation to people who don't know any better.

Their entire blog at the moment is filled with asks regarding this subject so I’m just going to tag them as a whole instead of a specific post @is-the-owl-video-cute

I haven’t read every single question they’ve answered so I’m not going to say I agree with everything they say, I simply haven’t got the energy to read them all so I can’t say I agree with what I haven’t read!

I agree with the general concept of these ethical topics.

When we’re talking about whether or not an animal should be kept in captive conditions we’re focused on a couple of main things

1) the quality of care provided in the average home

2) the breeding practices and regulations

3) the quality of life the animal will have in captivity

Parrots do not thrive in captivity. No parrot does. Not a budgie, not a macaw. None of them (as a general broad statement on their species as a whole) are able to exhibit natural behaviours regularly, live with less stress than in the wild, get adequate nutrition, exercise, or social outlets.

Are there outliers to this rule? Absolutely! There are anti-social budgies who live happily with people, there are people who go above and beyond with their care so the parrots can live happily! But that’s not the majority. And that’s what matters when we’re talking about a broad and complicated topic such as ethics.

As it stands parrot keeping is inadequate.

There’s no standards on their care, there’s more misinformation out there than there is correct information, it’s easier to purchase tiny habitats and fatty nutritionless foods than it is large homes and healthy options. Even if you want to take good care of your birds you have to jump through 1000 flaming hoops just to get the right information. The majority will not put in that effort and the majority will not have the funds, space or time to truly provide what they need.

When we look at parrots in captivity we find that they do not thrive even in the best of care! Most of parrot care is spent trying to prevent problems than it is about living a stress free joyous life. Most parrots struggle with plucking or other stereotypic behaviours, behaviours that are not seen naturally. These things only happen as a result of struggling with captive life, they self mutilate, pace, and pull at their toes to try to cope with the stress that captivity puts on them. Great care or not these things still happen! It’s just a side effect of living in a cramped captive lifestyle that can’t provide what the birds need.

Their social requirements are absurdly massive! Budgies are one of the most common parrots kept as pets and they have some of the largest flocks there are! Massive groups of birds hitting numbers in the thousands! They thrive in large groups where they can preen eachother, chatter together, forage together with safety in numbers. Most captive budgies get 0-3 flock mates. Can some budgies do okay with these conditions? Sure. Does the majority? No. That doesn’t even touch on the subject that just because they’re a social bird doesn’t mean they love every bird they meet. In the wild you can choose your flock, move away from birds you don’t get along with, etc. in captivity they often don’t get that choice. You buy a completely random friend for them from a wildly different genetic line and slap them together in a confined space expecting them to get along perfectly. It ends in a lot of stress, a lot of fights, a lot of deaths.

We haven’t even hit the intelligence level yet! This goes a little hand in hand with enclosure size. Parrots are smart, not just the big ones! A budgie holds the world record for the most known words, an African grey parrot has the same cognitive intelligence as a three year old human child. They’re complex, destructive and it takes a lot to keep those brains engaged. Imagine a three year old child and all the things it takes to keep their minds healthy, now hand that toddler a sharp weapon for a face and the capacity to scream louder than a jet engine. Frequent toy rotations, tons of money spent on new toys, training to engage the brain, changing up enclosure layouts, foraging opportunities, puzzle feeders, bird-proofing everything repeatedly because your bird chewed a hole in your drywall. It’s hard. Most birds don’t get enough of it. And the majority only get 2-3 uninteresting toys which results in a lot of distress and boredom that leads to an unhappy life and self-destructive behaviours.

The amount of distance a parrot travels in a day is huge! They have massive exercise requirements that the average home cannot provide. Yes even a large outdoor aviary isn’t suitable for a lot of birds! You’ll still see stress-related behaviours as a result of living in these habitats in some cases. And again, looking at the majority here they won’t even get that amount of space. They’ll be lucky to live in a 10x10 cube with maybe an hour of time to flap their wings.

Which brings us to wing clipping. Most parrots will never get the opportunity to fly which screws up their systems massively. Their brain ends up underdeveloped, their lungs end up weaker, even their heart can be weakened or just straight up smaller than a bird who was able to fledge and fly regularly. Let alone the amount of birds that end up with broken necks because the wings were cut too short so they smashed straight in to the ground or flew full speed in to a wall with no way to control their flight (wing clipping removes the feathers responsible for controlling direction, not speed.)

Majority of pet birds end up overweight due to inadequate nutrition and exercise (see:wing clipping). There isn’t even a brand of food I can find in a local pet store that I can feed my birds that actually fulfills their nutritional needs, yes even the stores that sell the birds don’t have what’s needed to even feed them. If you want to invest a ton of time in to research, working with your veterinary team, and formulating recipes you could make it work with seeds and veggies but it’s very very difficult to do that (and again, the majority of people will not). Seeds are high in fat and the average captive bird is not getting enough exercise to burn off all that fat, this can result in neurological problems and fatty liver disease which easily chops a birds lifespan in half.

Breeding. Where it sits right now parrot breeding (in the majority of cases) is disgusting. Most of the time the birds are kept in teeny tiny cages and don’t really come out, the babies may get handled just so they end up tame and easier to sell but other than that they don’t tend to get out much. Most birds are over-bred and in the cases of small birds they’re too tiny for most blood tests to be done. So things like ensuring two birds aren’t closely related to reduce inbreeding risks….. doesn’t happen. If you look at the world of dog breeding for comparison there’s a ton of regulations to ensure healthy pups. You can get x rays to check their bone structures and joints, blood tests for their Coefficient of Inbreeding, etc. the (good) breeders put a lot of work in to socializing, building confidence, and raising healthy stable puppies. That doesn’t exist for birds. There’s no attempts at socialization beyond making them hand tame, there’s no exposure routines to build confidence, there’s no health tests. The bird world also has this hefty habit of deliberately inbreeding to cause genetic disasters because they look cute. One line of budgies, for example, is so overbred for the sake of making the feathers large (desirable trait for more sales) that the birds can’t see properly and often have really dirty vents because the poop gets caught up in these oversized feathers. An offshoot of this attempt was the Feather Duster Budgie. A line of budgies who ended up with a genetic mutation through this process, their feathers never stop growing. They don’t live more than a couple years at most before they either die because the feathers were too heavy to access food, couldn’t breathe, or were otherwise inhibited by the weight of the feathers.

There’s a lot wrong with captive parrots. Even if we were to reform the whole pet care industry at the end of the day we’d hit the same result. Parrots aren’t healthier with us than they are on their own. Even with the risks of predation and disease in the wild the amount of stress they experience in captive environments and drastic accidents with escaped pets/ getting stepped on/ eaten by the family cat often shortens their lifespans in similar ways.

Here’s more posts I’ve done in the past regarding ethics:

https://flock-talk.tumblr.com/post/124943409618/theres-a-post-going-around-saying-how-you-should

https://flock-talk.tumblr.com/post/674550796203999232/but-you-have-birds-in-captive-conditions

https://flock-talk.tumblr.com/post/674631708422881280/hi-ive-searched-your-blog-for-budgie-related-asks

[theramseyloft]

My have had an African Grey for my whole life, and when I move out, I was thinking about getting a pigeon at some point. Would my knowledge of the parrot help with pigeons at all? Is there things that are good with parrots that I have to be wary about with pigeons or vice versa?

Unfortunately, no.

People coming from a parrot background have to unlearn literally everything for pigeon care.

Pigeons are strict granivores, first of all.

They cannot digest anything except seeds.

That's a full 180 from parrots only getting seeds as a very rare treat.

You will severely malnourish a pigeon by trying to feed it like a parrot, please do not!

Pigeons are cliff nesters that need flat perches. Round ones hurt their feet, which is why you don't often see them in trees.

They can't chew, so you don't have to worry about paint on wood or heavy metal poisoning from cage bars like you would with a parrot.

You really don't have to worry about much in the way of property damage.

Pigeons can't climb. They fly and walk, and a pigeon who can fly will consider a ramp to be cluttering up their flight space.

They need more floor space than height. All of their foraging is done on the ground, so that's where they should be fed. And they should have space to do some wandering and poking around.

Hanging toys make an enclosure feel terrifyingly cluttered to a pigeon. They don't like anything to touch their wings in flight, so if something is hanging in their flight space, they just won't attempt to fly.

So an enclosure for a pigeon looks miserably spartan coming from a parrot background.

It's honestly best not to put toys in the sleep cage at all.

Pigeons are cage aggressive by nature, because the life or death need to defend what feels to them like a nest space is hard wired in.

They are extremely social, but only away from their nest.

So instead of having them step up in the cage as I see many parrot owners do, it's best to invite the pigeon out by opening the enclosure door in a safe space.

They do play with toys! Just not the ones parrots like.

Pigeons can recognize themselves in mirrors. A pigeon who has never seen a mirror before figures out very quickly that that is not another bird.

So that's a much more safe enrichment for them than it is for a parrot.

They like baths in shallow pans or casserole dishes

Forage trays can be made using the same thing as a bath, but putting sand, straw, hay, pine needles, or a mix of those in and scattering high value seeds like safflower for them to find.

Pigeons like shiny things and a number of auditory stims.

Their favorite environmental noises are jingling, chimes, and crinkly sounds.

Crinkle mats for kitties are fun to stomp and dance on.

Small wind chimes are fun to peck and make a fun noise.

Jingle bells are shiny and make a fun noise. I like to make bread tie handles for them so the pigeons can more easily puck them up and shake them.

Pigeons like to play house, and blunted tooth picks or q-tips with the tips snipped off are basically pigeon Lego.

Cocks with bring them to you to arrange.

Hens are happy to accept them from you.

Which brings me to laying.

Parrots are opportunistic nesters that pretty much lay when all the conditions are just right.

To my knowledge, they are not harmed by those conditions just not being met.

The only condition for a pigeon to lay is literally to not be physically starving or severely stressed.

They absolutely NEED to be allowed sit full term in order to prevent egg binding!!!

It doesn't have to be their real egg.

They take wooden, plastic, and clay fakes easily.

But if you just take it away without swapping or her nest is not comfortable or doesn't feel safe, she will immediately start a new clutch.

An egg takes 5 days from the hormonal trigger to complete development and be laid.

That is not enough time to recover what she has lost in their production.

Make sure adult hens have sufficient calcium and a safe comfortable nest, and let her sit the full 18 days on a fake.

If she doesn't live with a cock, you can let her set the real egg.

Pigeon flocks are democratic meritocracies that vote on everything they do as a group and compromise when they disagree.

Their response to a leader that ignores their say and makes no attempt to compromise is to refuse to cooperate with that flock mate.

Pigeons see human households as a mixed species flock.

Physical contact does not sexually frustrate pigeons like it does parrots.

Single birds that ask their care taker to cuddle with them will suffer emotional distress if their human refuses.

This is a really broad question, and there may be some things I missed.

Here is the master post for first time pigeon keepers:

https://theramseyloft.tumblr.com/post/667402203113422848/would-it-be-possible-to-arrange-your-pigeon-care

I go into a LOT more detail here.