“What pet should I get?” It’s not just the title of a Dr. Suess book, it’s a question often heard from a first-time visitor to the Connecticut Humane Society. You’ve already thought about the pros and cons and whether or not you’re ready to get a pet, but you still might be on the fence about what type of pet you want. Or maybe you just adopted a pet, and you want to make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Check out these tips to start.

Here’s a comparison of the types of birds that are most frequently seen at the Connecticut Humane Society. Always do your research – online, in print, and with veterinarians and avian experts, before adopting a bird!

• Different species of birds should not be housed together.
• Solo birds will require more human attention.
• If males and females are housed together, breeding or fighting may occur.
• Even if your new bird appears healthy, if there are other birds in the home your new bird(s) should be isolated from them for at least six weeks.
• Use bird-safe products only (cages, dishes, toys, cleaning products, etc.) Exposure to chemicals, fumes, or heavy metals (lead and zinc) can be deadly to birds.
• Always wash your hands after handling a bird or cleaning its dishes, cage, toys, etc.

• Fresh food and clean, filtered, chlorine-free water should always be available.
• Change water and remove old food daily.
• Diets vary heavily between species. Do your research on your type of bird—their diet could require a diverse variety of pellets, seeds and fresh fruits and veggies.
• Vegetables and fruits not eaten within a few hours should be discarded.
• Do not feed birds avocado, fruit seeds, chocolate, caffeine or alcohol as these can cause serious medical conditions. Avoid sugar and high fat treats.
• To avoid contamination, do not place food or water containers directly under perches.

• Most birds acclimate well to average household temperatures, not above 80°F. Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• The habitat should be off the floor in a well-lit area, away from drafts.
• Do not place habitat in a window with lots of direct sunlight; birds can overheat.
• A flight habitat is strongly recommended. It is best to provide the largest habitat possible.
• A variety of perch sizes is recommended to provide exercise and prevent arthritis.
• Cover the cage at night to allow birds to sleep.
• Clean and disinfect the habitat and perches regularly; replace substrate or habitat liner weekly or more often as needed.
• Replace perches, dishes, and toys when worn or damaged; rotate new toys in regularly.

• Select a veterinarian that specializes in exotic birds and have them get to know you and your bird during regular wellness check-ups, before a health problem comes up!
• A healthy bird should be active, alert and sociable, eating and drinking often, sitting upright on a perch with feathers smooth.
• Sick birds will try to hide their illness and maintain a normal appearance, so be on the lookout for subtle changes.
• A bird that is inactive, sitting with feathers fluffed most of the time, or not eating may be sick. If you notice these signs, discharge from the eyes or nose, a change in color or appearance of the droppings, or other problems, please see your avian veterinarian right away.
• A bird that is head bobbing, pacing, spinning, rocking or swinging the head or body should be seen by a veterinarian.
• Avoid exposure to air pollutants (cigarette smoke, fumes from over-heated non-stick pans, etc.).
• Birds should be monitored at all times when let out of their habitat. Be aware of hazards such as toxic houseplants, open toilets, mirrors and ceiling fans.
• Your bird should be seen by an avian veterinarian at least once per year.
• Speak to your veterinarian about screening tests for viruses and parasites, blood testing and vaccines.

Download your CHS bird care guide here.

Check out the video below for kid-friendly bird care tips.