Intro to Pet Avian Husbandry Flashcards
Give examples of members of the psittacine family
Psittacine = parrot
Budgerigar
Cockatiel
Lovebirds
African grey parrot
Macaw
Give examples of members of the passerines family.
Passerine = perching
Canary
Zebra Finch
Pigeon
How can you tell the difference between psittacines and passerines?
Psittacines = 2 toes forward, 2 toes backward
Passerines = 3 toes forward, 1 toe backward
Give an example of a member of the raptor family
Raptor = birds of prey
Harris hawk
What are exotic animals in captivity often not considered?
They are not considered domesticated
Many exotics are either wild caught or captive bred for only a limited number of generations (2).
What do exotic animals require for proper management?
Specialised environments, nutrition, management
They require experienced and sympathetic management to mimic their wild habitat.
What is the fundamental principle of animal welfare in captivity?
5 freedoms
These freedoms include freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, injury or disease, fear and distress, and to express normal behavior.
What are three important pieces of legislation for wild/exotic animals in captivity?
- CITES
- Dangerous & Wild Animals Act 1976
- Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
How are psittacines typically kept in captivity?
Individually, especially larger species
Psittacines such as parrots and macaws are gregarious in the wild but are often kept alone in captivity.
How are passerines usually kept in captivity?
May be individual, paired or aviary.
What is the recommended cage condition for larger parrots?
Cages only when unsupervised
This is for training and security purposes.
What must cages for birds allow?
Bird to stretch in all directions without touching cage sides
This ensures the comfort and well-being of the bird.
What type of wire should be avoided for bird cages?
Chicken mesh
Enclosing wire must be free from hazards.
What is important about the location of a bird’s cage?
Disturbance, height, sunlight, privacy
These factors can significantly affect the well-being of the birds.
What behavior can occur if parrots are left alone?
Stereotypic behavior; feather-picking
These behaviors indicate stress or discomfort in birds.
What should be done when feeding birds?
Water ad lib and feed only at specific times
This helps mimic their natural foraging behaviors.
What is the recommended height for bird cages?
Chest height or higher
This height allows for better visibility and comfort for the birds.
Why is dowel perching not advised?
It puts pressure on the feet and leads to bumble foot. Prefer untreated fruit trees (that they can destroy) or an irregular perch.
What is the preferred method of managing a bird’s feathers?
Avoid both pinioning and feather clipping if possible
If clipping is necessary, it should be bilateral and leave sufficient feathers for some flight.
What is the frequency for cleaning and disinfecting bird cages?
Weekly
Regular cleaning helps maintain hygiene and health for the birds.
How often should water be changed?
Change daily
Fresh water is essential for hydration and health.
What type of diet should be avoided for birds?
Standard all-seed diets
These diets are often high in fat and deficient in essential nutrients.
What foods are best for birds?
- Fresh vegetables
- Fruits
- Nuts
- Flowers
- Fruit seeds
Which fruit should be avoided due to toxicity to birds?
Avocados
Avocados contain persin, which is toxic to birds.
