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Pet Birds: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Top 5 Companion Bird Species
This is a list of the top 5 most popular companion bird species. Photos, profiles, descriptions and more make it easy for potential owners to learn about different types of birds before deciding which type to buy.
How to Choose the Right Bird
Are you thinking of adopting a pet bird? While all bird owners want an attractive pet, you should be careful not to allow yourself to be blinded by a bird's beautiful colors. Different birds exhibit different behaviors and require different kinds of care. Before you buy, look here for tips on choosing a bird that will be compatible with your lifestyle and family.
Quaker Parrots
A profile of the lovable Quaker Parrot, a popular pet bird species. Information includes common and scientific names, origin, temperament, general care, and much more!
Indian Ringneck Parakeets
A look at keeping Indian Ringneck Parakeets as pets. Ringneck description, photos, tips for care, history, and more!
Choosing a Talking Bird
Many people that are interested in pet bird ownership would like to buy a bird that can talk. Look here for helpful information about talking birds that will help you in your search for the right feathered friend.
Sun Conures
Summary of the essentials of caring for a Sun Conure. Cage requirements, training, feeding guidelines, history, and more!
Top 3 Pet Birds for Kids
An outline of the top 3 bird species that make the best pets for children.
Parakeets (Budgerigars)
Learn all about the most common and popular type of parakeet, the Budgerigar! These colorful little birds have graced the homes of bird lovers for many years, and continue to delight families around the world with their sweet voices and charming dispositions. If you are thinking adopting one of these precious little birds, look here to find out more about them!
African Grey Parrots
Learn about the history of African Grey parrots including information on diet, exercise, lifespan, and more! If you are thinking of adding an African Grey to your family, check here first for a detailed look at the species.
Lovebirds
Information about the different types of lovebirds, their origin, life span, behavior, general care, and more! If you are thinking of adopting a Lovebird, look here first to find out about them!
Cockatiels
Details on the origin and history of Cockatiels, along with tips on temperament, care, feeding, and exercise.
Canaries
An introduction to Canaries as pets, along with facts about the species and tips on care and keeping.
The Pet Bird Price List
A list of average prices ranges for the most common and popular pet bird species.
Symptoms of Illness in Birds
Is your pet bird feeling a bit "under the weather?" Look here for valuable information on identifying the signs and symptoms of illness in pet birds, and tips on treatment options and preventative care. Knowing what to look for can save a bird's life -- be an angel to your bird by learning how to recognize when he needs veterinary care.
Toxic Treats to Avoid
A quick guide to the 10 most common foods that are poisonous to your bird. Many foods can trigger severe, even fatal reactions in exotic birds. Prevent an emergency by learning what treats to avoid.
Umbrella Cockatoos
Information on the life span, origin, and history of Umbrella Cockatoos, and tips on keeping them as pets.
Bird Anatomy
Have you ever wondered what a gizzard is for? Ever pondered what exactly a bird's beak is made out of? Look here for a quick lesson in the basics of avian anatomy, both internal and external. Knowing how your bird's body works can be valuable if your pet ever gets ill or injured -- be an informed and prepared owner by learning about the building blocks that make up your bird.
Homemade Cage Cleaner
Recipe for an effective, safe bird cage cleaner that you can mix at home! Harsh chemicals can be very toxic to pet birds -- switching to an easy, homemade cleaner can help you prevent your bird from becoming sick. Try this simple, economical solution that will help you keep your bird's cage a clean and healthy environment.
Selecting a Cage
What kind of cage is best for your bird? How large does the cage have to be? Where should the cage be located? Find the answers to these questions and more as you learn the rules of choosing the best cage for your pet bird!
Top 10 Reasons Birds are Great
Are you thinking of adopting a pet? Would you like something a little more unique than a dog or a cat? If so, consider adopting a beautiful pet bird! Check out the top ten reasons that birds make great pets so you can decide if a feathered friend would make the best companion for you.
Correcting Bad Behavior
Ever wondered what to do when your bird is bad? Our feathered friends think and act quite a bit differently than cats or dogs, so it's no surprise that they require different training methods than these types of pets. Read on and find out ways to respond to your bird's bad behavior that should help you and your pet see eye to eye.
Cage Cleaning Tips
Tips on setting a proper cleaning schedule for your pet bird's cage, and advice about techniques that will make cleaning your bird's cage much easier. These easy instructions will have you on the road to a sparkling clean bird cage in no time!
Pacific Parrotlets
A profile of Parrotlets, their origin, classification, and traits, as well as information on keeping Parrotlets as pets.
How to Teach Your Bird to Talk
Step by step instructions on teaching parrots and other birds how to talk.
Teaching Birds to "Step-Up"
An important part of being a responsible bird owner is taking a role in training your pet to be more agreeable with people. Many birds are capable of learning almost any trick, but to teach a bird most tricks one must build off of one basic command that every bird should know: the "step-up" command. Look here for a handy step-by-step guide that will have your bird coming to you in no time!
Senegal Parrots
A profile of the Senegal Parrot, as well as information on keeping and caring for this beautiful and intelligent mid-sized parrot species.
Can Birds Eat "People Food"?
A discussion on feeding pet birds "human" foods and ways to incorporate fresh foods into a bird's diet.
Potty Training Birds
Instructions on how to potty train a pet bird in order to avoid embarrassing "accidents" during playtime.
Ten Facts About Bird Ownership
An article highlighting a few surprising but universal truths about bird ownership.
Why Does My Bird Bite Me?
Reasons why some pet birds seem to bite more often than others, along with the definition of a true "bite".
Cage Accessories to Avoid
A list of the top 5 dangerous bird cage accessories and an explanation of the threats they could pose to your pet.
Choosing an Avian Vet
One of the biggest responsibilities of bird ownership is protecting your pet's health. Locating a reputable avian vet is the first step in making sure your bird leads a long and happy life. Look here for tips on finding a good doctor for your bird, things to look for, questions to ask, and more!
Top 10 Tasty Bird Treats
Ever wondered what foods are safe to share with your bird? Would you like to learn which ten tasty treats drive pet birds wild with delight? If so, look here for the Top Ten list of tasty treats that birds love to eat!
Bluffing Behavior in Parrots
An article discussing the "bluffing" or aggressive stage that many young parrots go through during adolescence.
Homemade Bird Toys
Birds need to play and have fun in order to maintain their good health and happiness. Look here for a step-by-step guide to making simple, economical, disposable, but fun bird toys that your pet will enjoy for hours! A wonderful activity to do with children!
Covering Cages at Night
An article discussing why some bird owners opt to cover their bird's cages at night, whether or not it is necessary, and the importance of sleep to parrots and other birds.
Birds for First Time Owners
A list of good starter birds for those new to bird ownership, and links to profiles on each species that outline their traits, care requirements, and personalities.
Bathing Your Bird
As with all pets, parrots and other companion bird species need to be bathed to ensure their good health. This important aspect of grooming is often the source of many questions among those that own pet birds. Read on to learn more about the proper ways to go about getting your bird squeaky clean.
Taming Aggressive Birds
An article discussing ways to hand tame aggressive parrots and other birds.
Preparing for a New Pet Bird
An overview of essential supplies to have on hand when you bring your new pet bird home! Learn all about "must have" bird supplies and be prepared for your feathered friend's arrival! Preparing to bring home a new bird can be an extremely exciting time for your family. Read on for tips to make sure that this homecoming goes smoothly for all involved.
Caiques
Are you looking for an entertaining pet? Consider the fiesty Caique! These charming little birds have stolen the hearts of countless owners, and their antics always provide a good laugh. Read on for more information about these little feathered "funnies".
Reasons to Handle Your Bird
A discussion of the reasons why pet bird owners should make time each day to handle and socialize with their pets.
Breeding Parakeets and Budgies
Parakeet breeding basics. Look here for the most important information on caring for breeding Parakeets in your home. Features facts on egg laying, incubation time, number of eggs you can expect, and more!
Should I Clip My Bird's Wings?
A discussion of reasons why most owners of parrots and other pet birds choose to clip their pet's wings.
Eclectus Parrots
Profile and information on the bold, beautiful Eclectus.
Trimming Your Bird's Nails
Tips on easily and effectively trimming your pet bird's nails at home.
Cockatiel Breeding Basics
Cockatiel breeding basics. Look here for the most important information on caring for breeding Cockatiels in your home. Features facts on egg laying, incubation time, number of eggs you can expect, and more!
Why Do Birds Hang Upside Down?
Why does your bird hang upside down from his perch? While upside down birds may look a bit silly, there is a reason that they do this and the answer may surprise you!
Lovebird Breeding Basics
Lovebird breeding basics. Look here for the most important information on caring for breeding Lovebirds in your home. Features facts on egg laying, incubation time, number of eggs you can expect, and more!
Should I Breed My Pet Bird?
Issues that pet bird owners should consider before breeding their feathered friends.
Things to Know Before Buying
A discussion about different issues that bird owners contend with, as well as a list of things potential owners should know about birds before bringing one home.
What is a Color Mutation?
A brief explanation of what a color mutation is, and how color mutations are bred for and labeled in the pet bird trade.
Softbills & Hookbills
A discussion on the meaning of the word "hookbill" when used in reference to certain bird species.
Blue and Gold Macaws
A profile of Blue and Gold Macaws, their origin, dietary and care requirements, and a look at leeping Blue and Gold Macaws as pets.
Will My Bird's Egg Hatch?
So, your bird laid an egg and you find yourself full of questions. What should you do with the egg? Why did your bird lay the egg? Will it hatch? Read on for those answers and more!
Baby Blue the Parrotlet
Profile on Baby Blue, a male Pacific Parrotlet, who was chosen as a Bird of the Week in July 2008. Learn all about life with Baby Blue, his likes, dislikes, and more!
What is Eye Pinning?
A description of the eye pinning or eye flashing behavior in parrots, as well as the causes and interpretations. Eye pinning may look odd at first, but learning to "read" your bird's eyes can be helpful in gauging his mood.
Signs of Egg Binding in Birds
Information on the most common signs and symptoms of egg binding in female birds. Problems with egg binding and how to diagnose an egg bound bird.
Hyacinth Macaws
A profile of the majestic Hyacinth Macaw including information on origin and classification of the species, and the care of Hyacinths kept as pets.
Zebra Finch Breeding Basics
Finch breeding basics. An article full of information on breeding Zebra Finches. Look here to find out housing and nesting requirements, nutritional requirements for breeding birds, incubation times, and more!
Are Parakeets Parrots?
What is the difference between a Parakeet and a Parrot? Are parakeets and parrots related in any way? Find out all this and more by reading this quick and informative FAQ!
Should a Bird's Beak be Flaky?
Common causes of "flaky" looking beaks in pet bird species.
Taboo the Ringneck Parakeet
Profile and information on Taboo, an Indian Ringneck Parakeet who is more talented than many birds twice his size! Learn about life with Taboo, his likes and dislikes, and much more.
Fun Bird Facts
Fun and little known facts about parrots and other birds.
Five Simple Homemade Bird Toys
A list of five fun and practically free bird toys that you can make at home.
Caring for Wild Baby Birds
An article discussing what to do if you find a wild baby bird.
Top 5 Bird Movies
A list of fun, family friendly movies about parrots and other birds.
Yellow Collared Macaws
A profile on Yellow Collared Macaws, one of the most popular Mini-Macaw species. Information on origin, diet, temperament, lifespan, and tips on keeping Yellow Collared Macaws as pets.
Are Eggs Good for My Bird?
Find out if eggs really are a safe and nutritious food source for pet birds.
Exotic Bird Fairs
A description of common activities that take place at exotic bird fairs, things that visitors can expect, and advantages of attending.
If Your Bird Flies Away
An article on retrieving pet birds that fly away, with tips on preventing your bird from getting lost.
Seeds or Pellets?
A discussion on whether or not it's best to feed pet birds a staple diet of seeds or pellets.
Regurgitation in Pet Birds
A guide to vomiting and regurgitation in pet birds.
Are Round Cages Bad for Birds?
A discussion on keeping birds in round cages and the effects it can have on a pet's psychological health.
Do Birds Need to be Misted?
A brief discussion on the benefits of misting pet birds daily with water.
Ways to Bond With Your Bird
Bonding with pet birds is essential for a pleasant ownership experience. If you need help bonding with your bird, check out this list of simple but effective ways to help strengthen the bond of love and trust between you and your pet! Whether you're feathered friend is just a bit shy or truly a problem parrot, these easy solutions will have you on the road to successful bonding in no time!
The Truth On Mite Protectors
A quick tip on the use of store bought mite protectors for pet birds.
Sand and Concrete Perches
Advice on the use of concrete perches and sand perch covers for parrots and other pet birds.
Candling an Egg
I description of the term "candling" as it pertains to checking for fertile eggs in parrots and other pet birds.
Is My Bird "Egg Bound"?
A short article on egg binding in parrots and other pet birds. Egg binding can be serious, so it's important for owners of female birds to be familiar with its signs and symptoms.
Pet Birds - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the Pet Birds guide site.
Avian Flu in Pets
Facts and information about the avian influenza virus and whether or not bird owners should be concerned. Find out what types of influenza affect birds, what to do to prevent exposure, and what health organizations say about the avian flu.
What is a Cuttlebone?
A dicussion on the cuttlebone and how it is used with parrots and other pet birds.
Victoria Crowned Pigeons
A look at keeping Victoria Crowned Pigeons as pets, as well as information on their care, temperaments, and feeding requirements.
Choosing a Healthy Baby Bird
Tips on choosing a healthy,active, and well-adjusted baby bird. What to look for in a healthy bird, questions to ask the breeder, and more!
Choosing a Good Breeder
Helpful tips on what to look for in a good bird breeder, including how to find breeders in your area, questions that potential buyers should ask, and telltale signs of questionable breeding practices.
Scarlet Macaws
Information and profile on Scarlet Macaws and keeping them as pets.
Be a Better Bird Owner
A short article with great tips on being a better friend to your parrot or other pet bird.
Can a Bird Be Gender Biased?
A short explanation of the way that some birds seem to prefer people of one gender over another.
Birdie Manicotti Recipe
A recipe for delicious homemade baked manicotti -- for birds! Pamper your pet by making him this wonderfully decadent and nutritious treat at home in your own kitchen.
What is PBFD?
A look at Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PFBD) including its symptoms, treatment, and a list of bird species most prone to PBFD.
Parrot Behavior Consultants
An overview of the most common signs that you and your bird need a Parrot Behavior Consultant.
Meet My Birds: Loco
A profile on my Sun Conure, Loco, including insight into his likes, dislikes, and daily routine.
Pet Birds - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Pet Birds guide site.
Feeding Worms and Insects
Ever wondered if your pet bird should be eating worms and insects like the wild birds outside? Read on to find the answer!
Peanut Butter Raisin Pockets
A recipe designed for pet birds that puts a fun twist on another family favorite: peanut butter and jelly. This healthy and delicious snack idea is a wonderful way to treat your bird -- and may just leave your feathered friend squawking for more!
Birdie Banana Strips
A recipe for great banana bird treats that are both tasty and good for your pet.
Recipe: Fruity Parrot Pops
A recipe for making delicious and nutritious frozen fruit treats for your favorite feathered friend.
Convenient Cleaning Products
A list of five convenient products that can help make cleaning up after parrots and other pet birds much easier.
What are Stress Bars?
Does your bird have little bars or stripes running across the shafts of his feathers? If so, your pet may have stress bars, a feather condition that can be a strong indicator of the state of your bird's health. Read on for photos and more information.
Brooder
Definition of the term "brooder" as it pertains to breeding birds.
Clutch
The definition of the term "clutch" as it pertains to birds and bird breeding.
Keeping Birds Warm in Winter
A helpful article with tips to help you keep your parrot or other exotic bird warm during the cold winter months.
Isabella the African Grey
Profile and photos of the beautiful Isabella, a Timneh African Grey who July 2008's first featured "Bird of the Week"!
Songs About Birds
An eclectic list of great songs about birds for those that love both music and their feathered friends. A great resource for those looking for songs about birds of all kinds.
Can Birds Live with Cats?
A short article discussing whether or not cats and birds can be kept as pets in the same home. Keeping birds and cats together can lead to situations that not all owners are prepared for.
Birdie Bean Salad
A fun, nutritious, and easy to make recipe that your feathered friend will love!
Honey Banana Birdie Bites
An easy, tasty bird treat recipe that you can make at home!
Jennifer Lynn - Amazon Parrot
Profile and photos of Jennifer Lynn, an Orange Winged Amazon Parrot and "Bird of the Week" winner!
Pet Birds - Articles
An index of Articles for the Pet Birds guide site.
Feather Conditioners
Information on feather conditioners and other supplements that owners can buy for their birds -- and insight into whether or not they are really beneficial.
Psittacosis
A short entry describing the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of psittacosis in parrots and other pet birds.
Meet My Birds: Oliver
Get to know my Indian Ringneck Parakeet, Oliver, from A to Z.
Feather Cysts
Does your bird have one or more swollen, bare lumps on his skin? If so, he could be suffering from feather cysts. Read on to find out more about this common problem.
Bird Dictionary: Blood Feather
An explanation of blood feathers and why birds have them.
4th of July Bird Safety Tips
Helpful tips and hints that will help you keep your feathered friend safe during Independence Day festivities.
Bird Dictionary: Crop
The definition of the term 'crop' and how it pertains to avian anatomy.
Parrot Themed Gifts
A list of the top three places on the web to buy bird themed gifts for people who love parrots.
Bird Dictionary: Dimorphic
A definition of the term "Dimorphic" and and explanation of how it pertains to certain bird species.
Should I Get a Second Bird?
A short discussion on the pros and cons of getting a second bird and keeping multiple birds in the same household. While getting a second bird to keep your pet company may seem like a great idea, that is not always the case!
Splay Legs: Definition
The definition of the term "splay leg" as it pertains to pet birds.
Pet Birds - Recipes
An index of Recipes for the Pet Birds guide site.
Pet Birds - FAQs
An index of FAQs for the Pet Birds guide site.
Primary Flight Feathers
What is the bird's secret to flight? The primary flight feathers, of course! Without the primary flight feathers, a bird's wings would be useless. Read on to learn more about how these feathers help birds fly!
Crop Burn
Crop burn is a health condition that occurs in handfed baby birds. Check here to learn more about crop burn, what causes it, and how to avoid it.
Molt
A description of molting in birds and how it affects pet bird owners.
Preventing Bird Theft
Tips that will help you decrease the odds that your pet bird will be a target of bird theft.
What is a Bird Club?
An introduction to Bird Clubs and Aviculture Societies.
Stress Bars
Definition of what stress bars are, how they appear, how to prevent them, and photos to help you recognize stress bars on your own bird.
Meet My Birds: Skipper
Profile and information on my two year old Yellow Collared Macaw, Skipper!
Closed Banded Birds
What does it mean when a bird is "closed banded?" Find the answer here!
Exotic Birds and Humidity
A brief discussion on the humid environment that exotic birds need, and how to easily provide it.
Brooding
The definitiion of the term "brooding" as it relates to birds of breeding age.
Hagrid the Parakeet
Meet Hagrid the Parakeet, the Bird of the Week for the week of June 16th, 2008!
Pinfeathers
A definition of the term "pinfeather" and how it applies to parrots and other birds.
Toweling a Bird
Ever heard someone talk about "toweling" their bird? Find out all about toweling a bird here, including reasons why it is done and how the technique can help you care for your pet bird.
Preening
Definition of the term "preening" and how it applies to birds.
Fabio the Parakeet
Meet Fabio the Parakeet, this week's pick for "Bird of the Week"!
Gavage Feeding
Definition of the term "gavage" as it relates to parrots and other exotic birds.
Bird Dictionary:Color Mutation
Definition of the term "color mutation" and how it applies to bird species.
Bird Dictionary: Hen
The definition of the term "hen" and how it describes birds.
Necropsy: Definition
The definition of the term "necropsy".
Bird Dictionary: Regurgitation
The definition of regurgitation and how it applies to parrots and other birds.
Hatchling
The definitiion of the term "hatchling" as it pertains to birds.
PBFD in Birds
Definition of PBFD along with information about the disease.
Plumage
A definition of the term "plumage" and how it relates to birds.
Christmas Bird Safety Tips
A collection of tips to help you and your pet bird make it through the holiday season safe and sound.
Bird Dictionary: Monomorphic
A definition of the term "monomorphic" and how it applies to certain bird species.
Cere
Definition and explanation of the term "cere" as it applies to birds.
Lovebird
How the term "Lovebird" applies to certain species of African parrot. Information on keeping a Lovebird as a pet.

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