by Steven Cuthill

Created on: August 04, 2008   Last Updated: March 28, 2010

There are a number of issues that you should consider when keeping your bird(s) safe.

Is your bird valuable, a macaw or cockatoo for example, then you may wish to consider microchipping your feathered friend. Do you keep him in the conservatory or living room window ledge with your window open in the summer? Even in a shop a parrot, especially some of the more passive species quieten down when stuffed inside a jacket. Even if your pet is not a colourful chatting parrot, your cockatiel or lovebird or other bird species could be worth something to a thief - keep photos of your pet and note down the ring number if your pet has a closed ring (usually aluminium) on one of its legs.

If you keep a number of birds, you may wish to consider CCTV or an alarmed system warning of intruders. Many birds are stolen weekly. Also be wary of who you have visit your bird room as that keen newcomer to the fancy could come back and steal your birds. Note car registrations, land line telephone numbers and other details just in case you need to alert your new friend to the police.

Be aware of the law, some birds can only be kept under license or have to be closed rung, failure to have either could mean you get your birds seized, even your legitimate ones.

Your parrot or parakeet can be a clever puzzle solver who will quickly work out how to open a cage door. Consider the difficulty of opening a door in order to stop escapes. Also consider how the feeders fit to the cage, swinging trays should have some mechanism to prevent easy release or a blank cover when you remove the feeder and also any that hang onto a gap in the cage wire could easily be broken. Many cages only have plastic covers over gaps and can become brittle over time and easily be broken providing an escape. Also remember to close the door when feeding or cleaning items in the cage - it may sound obvious but just because your pet shows no sign of going towards the door before, it just takes one moment to lose your pet.

Both of the above issues are even more pertinent if you frequently take your birds outside in warm weather or just for a change of scenery. If your bird accidentally gets out it may be lost forever to live at the mercy of the wildlife in your neighbourhood. Another risk is the local cat who may find it an easy target.

The position of the cage relative to its environment has effects on its inhabitant(s). Never place a cage in full sunlight or in a draught. Keep the cage away from doors or vents. You should

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>