Remember those classic B-movies about bugs? The Fly, Eight-Legged Freaks, Slither, Them… Well, they come to mind every time bug season hits, with clouds of fruit flies, ant invasions, hungry mosquitoes, and the dreaded food moths. Since many commercial pesticides are too toxic to use around our feathered companions, it’s a relief to know that
From window sprays to oven cleaners, our homes are filled with cleaning products we use regularly—sometimes without a second thought. Unfortunately, many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals and fumes that can be toxic to your bird—and harmful to your family as well. Just because a cleaner is sold on grocery shelves doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Knowing when your parrot’s nails need trimming is fairly easy. The first clue is often scratches or small puncture wounds on your hands or shoulders—ouch! Another sign is when you notice your bird nibbling or chewing on their nails. To perform a quick check, place your bird on a flat surface. If the nail is
Parrots are classified as hookbills due to their curved, hook-like beaks, unlike finches and canaries, which are known as softbills because of their short, straight beaks. The shape of a bird’s beak plays a crucial role in determining its diet and how it interacts with its environment. A parrot’s beak is both incredibly strong and
Clipping a bird’s wings is a personal decision often made for safety reasons. It helps reduce the risk of household accidents and can also aid in taming and training. Birds are naturally curious and can easily get into dangerous situations—flying into mirrors or ceiling fans, escaping through open windows, or even drowning in toilets. For
If you have a bird, feather dust is something you’ll inevitably find in every corner of your living space. Staying ahead of it requires consistent effort. But what exactly is feather dust, and where does it come from? What Is Feather Dust? As feathers grow, they emerge from the skin as a sharp shaft containing
In the wild, a parrot’s beak and nails are maintained naturally through everyday activities such as chewing, nut cracking, nest building, climbing, tearing apart fruits and vegetables, landing and walking on rough branches, and swiping their beaks on hard surfaces. All of this “parrot work” naturally helps in grooming their beaks and nails. Domestic parrots,
Bathing is more than just a fun activity for birds—it’s an essential part of maintaining healthy feathers, skin, and respiratory function. In the wild, birds instinctively bathe by playing in puddles, catching raindrops, rolling in wet leaves, or dust bathing when water is scarce. In captivity, you are responsible for giving your feathered friend the
Using the right disinfectants is essential in preventing the spread of bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections among birds. From contaminated dishes and water bowls to used toys and clothing, pathogens can easily hitch a ride into your bird’s environment. To protect your feathered friend, it’s important to develop safe, consistent disinfecting habits—especially when introducing new
Birds can be messy roommates—between droppings, regurgitated food, and enthusiastic playtime, their toys and perches can get pretty dirty. But beyond the mess, unclean accessories can harbor harmful bacteria and increase your bird’s risk of infection. In addition to regular cage cleaning (see our guide on Maintaining a Clean Environment), it’s essential to inspect and
