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Slide 1: A Loving Pet: Exotic Birds Living In American Homes You may have considered choosing a bird as a pet only to wonder if it would be as enjoyable or friendly as a dog or cat. Dogs will play with and love their owners; cats cuddle up on cold days. Even guinea pigs are furry and cuddly. Surprisingly, birds can make quite lovable pets too. Consider all of the exotic birds living in American Homes and maybe ask yourself why they are so popular. Before buying a bird, consider the commitment and what you need to do to properly take care of your pet. One reason is variety. From basic white to beautiful blends, parrots, budgies, macaws and more wear a spectacle of plumage dogs and cats might envy if they knew how. Like dogs, birds can range from very small to quite large, just without the need to walk them. Another part of bird personality which can either turn you off or onto the idea of owning one is the noise they make. They sing. They whistle. Birds call, talk, scream and imitate. If your home already sounds like a zoo, an exotic bird may be the last thing you need. On the other hand, a too-quiet life can get very lonely. Different species make more noise than others. Do
Slide 2: your research and you may solve the problem of your oppressively silent home. Having another voice to listen to, whether your bird sings to itself or calls to you, means having a companion. Your bird wants to hear you too. Together, you give each other a sense of safety and happiness. Depending on species and personality, your bird may even be willing to give you a little snuggle. Give him time, the way you would a person. Once your bird trusts you and you understand his ways, you can enjoy hours of time together. Not just hours, either, but years. In fact, large parrots may outlive their owners. Potential owners need to understand that, after all of the effort that goes into getting to know one another, a continued investment of years may be required. Remember: both bird and owner will be going through this same process. If you think you have the time to commit to a relationship with a loyal pet, then consider purchasing one of these elegant animals. Also keep in mind that your bird still needs exercise and attention. Not only will he want your affection and conversation, but will also need to have his cage cleaned out. Then again, without the need to walk your bird, he makes an ideal pet for someone whose mobility is limited by injury or disease. Like those who visit aviaries just to watch the birds, imagine being able to sit and observe your bird preen or play without having to toss a ball or fend off a bit too much love such as one might experience from an enthusiastic canine.
Slide 3: While you may experience limits to your mobility, your parrot or budgie still needs to move. Think of the size of the bird you want. If you can provide a large cage offering lots of space to fly around and you can offer a space place for some free flying with no threat from cats or access to the outside, your bird will enjoy his life much more than under strict confinement in an inadequate cage. Provide toys for your bird to play with, then devote some time to being entertained by his antics. Much like a dog, he can play with his ball and bell for hours. Parrots make very clever pets, sometimes too clever. Be alert to the genius of your beaked and feathered friend in case he has plans to escape from his cage. Pad locks or other devices may be required for his own safety, or to preserve the furniture. Meanwhile, teach your bird to perform simple tricks, depending on species. Talking and mimicking birds will learn simple phrases or sounds to repeat when trained to do so. Enjoy hours of fun with your sociable, funny and intelligent friend.