The Importance of Natural Sunlight for Your Parrot

Blue and Gold Macaws

I heard a disturbing fact the other day: this will be the first generation of children that might NOT outlive their parents.  The generation referred to is the preschool and grade school children, and those to be born to couples currently in their 20’s.  When you think about it, it really isn’t that surprising.
There are many, many households where both parents need to be working full-time, in which children must fend for themselves at mealtimes.  It is much easier and safer for them to use the ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

Continue reading

Feather Discoloration

Camelot Macaw

Your parrot’s feathers speak to its overall health.  A healthy parrot will have soft, vibrant and well-formed feathers.  Flaws in the feathering, such as discoloration are often a sign of poor diet or the lack of sunlight, but can also be attributed to illness and the subsequent use of antobiotics.   It can also signal serious organ problems or PBFD.  If you have noticed a change in your parrots feathering, you should seek the attention of an avian certified vet to rule out any significant health issues.

A good, varied ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

 

Continue reading

Why Proper Lighting Is Important For Our Indoor Birds

Umbrella Cockatoo

Natural sunlight varies as seasons progress and ebb.  It is the intensity and duration of light that tells a bird that it is breeding season, and when to molt – it regulates it’s cyclical clock and adjusts metabolism. Ultraviolet light strengthens the immune system and works with the glandular system in the synthesis of vitamin D, which through a series of processes, increases calcium absorption.  This means healthier and stronger bones and beaks, and improved feather production.  Additionally, a bird’s vision and perception is dramatically enhanced.  Our parrots ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

Continue reading