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| DIET:
Genesis Aviaries birds are fed a wide variety of fruits, sprouts, beans, rices, seeds, nuts, vegetables & grains etc. I am not an advocate for an all pellet diet. I have conducted extensive research and I firmly believe it is healthier to provide a balanced diet of natural foods. CLICK HERE to see what our birds eat. Please read the following pages before you make your decision: THE IMPORTANCE OF PHYTONUTRIENTS Why Food is Better than Pellets *Note that pellets can be harmful to species such as Eclectus & Parrotlets I feed fresh, 'Real' foods such as: seeds, nuts, soaked seeds, cooked brown rice, cooked beans, wholesome cereals, whole grain pasta (not too much), cooked mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), 12-Grain bread, Homemade birdie bread, Fresh broccoli, cauliflower, romaine lettuce, pears, sweet potato, melon...and so much more. ***Note that strawberries, grapes, apples and green peppers all contain potentially high levels of pesticides and can be harmful. Organic foods are best and I never feed my birds any canned foods as they are very high in sodium and low in nutritional food value. Change water twice daily (more often if soiled) and better yet, use a water bottle! Cuttlebone and mineral blocks should be available for many species (check with your Vet if you are feeding a pellet diet) For an Eye opening look at the foods we feed our birds please read: The Kitchen Pysician Parrots, Produce & Pesticides By Carolyn Swicegood **NEVER feed chocolate, avocado, onions or foods high in salt, sugar or fat. **Never give your bird alcohol or coffee These items are dangerous for your pet. |
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| WATER: |
| Water must be available at all times and must be clean and fresh. If you provide a water dish it must be cleaned with soap and water at least once daily - twice is better and more often if needed. It is very important that the location is such that it will never be soiled with droppings. I prefer to use water bottles designed especially for birds and offer a dish of water as a bath and treat but never allow it to sit in the cage unsupervised. Dirty water is deadly. Water bottles must also be cleaned daily with soap and water, using a bottle brush. Once per week they should be sterilized after scrubbing using a hot dishwasher or soak them in a mix of bleach-water. LIXIT is an excellent brand of water bottles for birds. Provide both sources for 2 weeks and watch to be sure your bird learns to use the bottle. |
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| WINGS CLIPPED?:
All birds from Genesis Aviaries are clipped before transport. (You may request otherwise) "The Beauty of the unclipped wings is lost on the bird who flies away." There are many dangers including windows and open doors and many other advantages to having your bird's wings clipped. This should be done by a qualified professional but you can easily learn to do it if you wish by watching your professional and asking questions. Many dangers may also face the 'clipped' bird....so be sure to weigh the choices and seek professional advice. I prefer to leave my birds with the power of flight....I feel it is natural and gives them a sense of balance and exercise.....but there are times when 'clipped is best'. It is my opinion that all babies should be allowed to learn to fly before clipping. |
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| NIGHT ROUTINE:
As a matter of personal preference I cover most of my birds at night. I feel this prevents drafts and keeps them calm and quiet in the early morning hours. I leave a small light on to help ease Night Frights. These night panic attacks are common in Cockatiels and there is much debate over the causes and preventative measures. I find they are most common in a bird who is in a new environment....in younger birds... and can be almost eliminated by leaving a small light on. However, not too much light since nighttime is important for their well being. What to do during a Night Fright? Be prepared to offer assistance although be aware some birds may bite while suffering an attack. Talk softly and watch for any injuries. A bird can be seriously injured or killed. Ask your Avian Veterinarian about removing a blood feather. |
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| KEEPING MY BIRD TAME
If you bought a hand raised bird there are a few things you should know to insure your bird stays friendly. Please note that your bird has just suffered a tremendous shock being uprooted from it's surroundings and it will take a few days to settle in to the new environment. This bird doesn't know you yet and will take time to adjust. Talk softly and don't be afraid to play with your new pet ....... but move slowly and be patient. They may act frightened in a new environment....this is normal and they just need a little extra attention, patience and love to overcome their fears. Avoid 'chasing' your bird if he moves away from you - instead try to encourage him/her to come to you. Use soft words and offer praise and favorite food treats. Always use positive reinforcement. |
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| Gravel/Grit?
Your Hookbill (parrot) does NOT need Gravel/grit. |
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| Cage Size & Information
I am often asked what size cage birds need. I hesitate to give a minimum size because the 'minimum' isn't suitable in my opinion. Get the largest cage you can afford and always allow your pet plenty of playtime outside of the cage. Never leave your pet unattended but do remember your bird will be much happier if he/she can be at ease in your home. An old towel or other cloth can easily be placed over precious furniture or other articles to prevent them from being soiled. Cage Bottom: I use newspaper. Easily cleaned, inexpensive and easy to monitor the droppings which are often the first sign of illness or stress. *Do not use highly colored glossy flyers. Perches: Should be of different diameters to allow optimum comfort to the bird's feet. Natural branches are wonderful if they are safe and free of pesticides. Do not use those sand perch covers - or other abrasive materials exclusively - your bird must have an escape from those surfaces or he may suffer harm to his tender feet. Safe and Toxic Plant Information |
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| QUESTIONS? PLEASE EMAIL |
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| The importance of bathing cannot be ignored. A bird's bath is often neglected simply because some people don't know how important it is to their bird. It is crucial to their health and to their happiness. A clean bird is healthier and feels better... without a bath they may be very itchy and may suffer problems with new feather growth. The time they spend enjoying the bath/shower and the after-preening is a critical part of their well-being. You may offer a shallow dish of tepid water, you might take them in the shower with you, use a hand sprayer (set on gentle mist/spray) or you might let them dance around in a bathroom or kitchen sink. The choice is yours (or probably your bird's) as long as you find a way to give them access to the pleasures of bathing. Be sure to only offer these bath-times when it is warm and they have plenty of time to dry before bed. Most birds bathe more in the warm summer months but bathing is important all year round. Once a week is a good rule of thumb, but twice a week is even better. If your bird isn't used to bathing you will have to be gentle and work slowly teaching him/her that it is a good... and very happy thing. Give gentle sprays while talking softly and offer a treat for good behavior. Keep trying and soon your bird will come to LOVE this time together with you ... and you will surely enjoy the crazy antics as your bird enjoys bath time! |
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| ~ COCKATIELS ~ PARROTLETS ~ LOVEBIRDS ~ CONURES ~ RED BELLY PARROTS ~ INDIAN RINGNECK PARROTS ~ ~ AFRICAN GREY PARROTS ~ GOFFIN'S COCKATOOS ~ UMBRELLA COCKATOOS ~ ~ BLUE & GOLD MACAWS ~ |
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