Bird Husbandry

Question 1

Enclosure size

Answer 1

stretch and move vertically
door wide for access when catching
stainless steel most recommended (safe, easy to clean. avoid plastic, zinc or lead due to toxicity)
should have a feeding, resting and perch areas
double entrance to prevent escaping

Question 1

Enclosure temp/humidity/lighting

Answer 1

warmer temperatures recommended
UV needed for Vit D3 synthesis
light exposure associated with normal circadian rhythms, reported to reduce mental health problems

Question 2

Enclosure furniture

Answer 2

optimal type of perch
resting area
water and bathing bowls
toys for climbing and chewing

Question 3

Enclosure substrate

Answer 3

dusty shavings like sawdust and shavings should be avoided
bark chips can be consumed by birds
must be cleaned often (2x a week)
paper shaving and kitchen towel are good options
potential zoonotic risk

Question 4

Enclosure enrichment

Answer 4

cognitive stimulus to increase activity and promote natural behaviour
social enrichment to promote companionship and improve owner bond
novelty is important
be careful of inducing frustration of aggression if wrong type

Question 5

Normal bird behvaiour

Answer 5

highly social and communicative
different behaviours in different situations
bathing
foraging
preening -> spreading of preen gland oil for waterproofing
“comfort behaviours”
social bond by mutual preening, with other birds or owners

Question 6

Abnormal Behaviour

Answer 6

excessive screaming, feather plucking, swaying/head bobbing, sexual directed behaviours to owner, biting

Question 7

Bird Handling

Answer 7

avoid lower back, inner thigh or belly, can function as sexual stimulation
avoid approach bird if aroused or defensive

Question 8

Bird Restraint

Answer 8

towel use
one handed for smaller birds
two handed for larger birds