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Do Birds Make Good Pets? Everything You Should Know!

There are so many species of birds available for ownership today. So, the issue arises: are birds suitable as pets? The answer is complex, but sure, birds can sometimes make excellent pets. Despite the fact that these creatures can be extremely gratifying companions, there are several factors to consider.

Ultimately, only you can choose if bird ownership is appropriate for you. Yet, there are a few things you should consider before committing.

Continue reading "Do Birds Make Good Pets? Everything You Should Know!" by BestForPets (bestforpets.org) to determine whether these species are suitable for your family.

Birds As Pets: What Are Your Options?

Initially, you must determine precisely whatever species of bird you desire. Possession of a bird is not restricted to those found in pet stores. You may also possess poultry and birds of prey. Let’s examine each one in depth.

Domesticated Birds

There are numerous birds available for purchase at local pet stores and from local breeders. The bird trade is thriving, with numerous owners acquiring species from throughout the world and acclimating them to their homes. Choose a bird based on the type of relationship you seek; therefore, be selective.

  • Big Birds:

For the right owners, larger birds such as parrots and cockatoos may be immensely gratifying. But, you must remember that these birds are tropical creatures that require specialized settings and diets in order to be healthy.

Due of their great intelligence, larger parrots do not perform well when left alone for extended periods.

Without engagement and affection from their owners, they may grow melancholy or agitated. They also have long lives, sometimes outliving their owners, which can be a source for anxiety.

  • Medium-sized birds:

Including lovebirds, conures, and cockatiels, are often enjoyable to own. Their lifespans are shorter than those of their parrot relatives. They are simple to care for and form strong bonds with their owners, making them ideal for beginning owners.

Some of these birds are more boisterous and vocal than others. Conures, for instance, are typically significantly more talkative than their cockatiel relatives.

It is essential to conduct research on the bird of interest that describes what to expect from the particular species.

  • Tiny Birds:

Smaller species of birds, such as parakeets, parrotlets, finches, and canaries, make wonderful pets.

Yet, there is a tremendous disparity between the species. Tiny tropical birds appear to share many characteristics with their larger relatives.

Other birds, such as finches and canaries, are rarely as peaceful or kind. You must handle them with extreme caution, as they are agitated and fragile.

For experienced avian owners, smaller birds are the ideal choice.

Flock Birds

If you dislike the concept of keeping a single pet bird in your home, we have another suggestion.

You may be able to raise a flock of chickens, ducks, peacocks, geese, or guinea fowl if you live on acreage. Each will require unique accommodations, but as they are flock animals, you should have at least four at once.

Although though this is not a standard pet, caring for these creatures can be beneficial and enjoyable. You, too, may get the benefits of having your own egg production. And if you have a large enough flock, you may be able to sell the eggs for a profit, which may be a lucrative investment.

While they spend the majority of their time foraging for food, flock animals are typically simple to maintain. Yet, precautions must be taken to safeguard them from predators and other threats.

Although not everyone considers these birds to be traditional pets, they make interesting barnyard companions. In addition, these creatures can provide children with an exceptional lesson in responsibility.

Wild birds

In most locations, it is illegal to possess a wild bird. Birds that are accustomed to the outdoors must remain in their native habitat, particularly if they are fully matured when discovered.

Most states prohibit the custody of wild birds. In exceptional circumstances, however, you may encounter an orphaned or injured bird. To assure the bird’s safety and recuperation, you must call a local wildlife rehabilitation institution.

Even if the facility you contacted is unable to assist you with your current problem, they will direct you and offer guidance.

Each state has a department of wildlife that handles such problems. They frequently attempt to rehabilitate the animal and return it to the wild, where it belongs.

In spite of the fact that it can be tempting to retain a wild bird if you ever come across one, the reality is that most people are not able to deal with the problems involved. In addition, wild birds might transmit sickness; therefore, you should always wash your hands after handling them.

Falconry

In some states, you can obtain a license to own a variety of birds of prey. This technique typically entails capturing the bird in the wild and domesticating it. The bird is then trained to hunt, which could be advantageous for a sportsman.

Even though the majority of these birds are returned to the wild after a number of years, the time you spend with them is certainly beneficial and educational. Yet, a rigorous procedure must be followed to accomplish this.

This type of bird ownership is a bit of a problem, and it is not a conventional pet situation.

Upsides of Having Birds as Pets

Birds can make wonderful pets for some types of individuals; but, do you fall into this category? These are some big benefits that demonstrate why bird ownership may be your thing.

  • Birds are extremely affable.
  • Birds have individuality Birds are stunning creatures
  • Birds are incredibly social with humans
  • There are numerous species available Birds are often simple to care for
  • Birds are captive creatures

Downfalls of Having Birds as Pets

With every pet comes a number of disadvantages. Before committing, you may wish to consider the following points.

  • Birds in the home must be contained in cages.
  • Birds’ flight feathers must be groomed periodically.
  • Birds require a great deal of interaction and bonding.
  • Birds require very particular environmental conditions
  • Birds are prone to starvation Birds sometimes have exceptionally lengthy lifespans
  • Healthcare can be costly.

Final Thoughts

Only you can determine whether a bird is the right pet for you. It bears repeating that there are numerous varieties of birds that can be kept as pets. It would be excellent if you conducted extensive study to ensure that you are compatible with the species you chose.

Consider whether you want your bird to reside in your home. Would you rather have an outside flock? Are you interested in a possible bird of prey keeper apprenticeship? Once you have narrowed down your desires, you can choose the option that best meets your needs.

Hopefully, “Do Birds Make Good Pets? Everything You Should Know!” by BestForPets (bestforpets.org) will assist you in deciding whether or not to add birds to your household.

Do Birds Make Great First Pets?

Some birds make excellent first pets for children and young adults, provided the youngster is mature enough to assume care. It is essential to emphasize that the majority of birds are quite frail and require considerable care.

If you believe your youngster is old enough to acquire a bird, the following are some excellent options:

  • Cockatiels
  • Parakeets
  • Pionus Parrots
  • Lovebirds

Author Image

Dr. Deborah Fletcher

Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.

Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher

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