Help!

Question
I need your help! I don't know what kind of parrot I own. I've had this parrot for about 6 months now. He seems really scared and flys all over the place whenever I get near him.

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Thanks  

Answer
Hello Adi,

You have a female Alexandrine Parakeet. I would really like to encourage you to take the time to learn all you can about parrot care, behavior, and training. Owning a parrot is a commitment that must be taken seriously and that includes a lot of self education in order to properly care for your bird.

Your pictures gave me a lot of information so that I can help you get started.

1. Does your bird have a wing injury? Has your bird been seen by an avian veterinarian? I'm going to guess you haven't done this yet since you didn't know what species you have. This absolutely must be your first step. Please make an appointment immediately.

2. Diet - an all seed diet is NOT a healthy diet. A healthy diet consists of pellets and fresh fruits and veggies. Whole nuts can be given as treats only. An all seed diet will lead to serious debilitating and deadly health conditions. Again, your bird need to be examined by an avian veterinarian.

3. Perching. Smooth wooden dowel perches should never be used. Birds need to have a variety of sizes and textures to keep their feet healthy. Without this their feet will eventually develop sores and infections. I cannot stress the importance of an exam by an AVIAN veterinarian.

4. Is there a reason that your bird is not provided with toys? She should have a minimum of 3 species appropriate toys that allow for her to play and chew. I noticed her wing and tail feathers are damaged from the amount of time she spends circling her cage. This is an indication of boredom and/or stress.

5. Caging. Cages must be made of stainless steel or powder coated. Any other cage (such as the one your bird is in) have toxic levels of zinc and lead. Please have your avian veterinarian test for this at your appointment. Also it looks like the cage is way too small.

6. Training, here are some links to my past answers that will give you insight into your birds' behavior and how to start a training program.

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Parrots-1638/PLEASE-HELP-2.htm

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Parrots-1638/Timneh-Parrot-Please-help.htm

I also highly recommend that you buy the book The Companion Parrot Handbook by Sally Blanchard. This is an excellent book that covers all aspects of proper parrot care. Subscribing to a monthly parrot magazine such as Bird Talk will also be beneficial. In addition I have links on my website to more parrot websites and online stores.

The best thing you can do for your bird (after the avian vet visit) is to learn all you can about parrots and to never stop learning. I have just touched on a couple of parrot care basics to get you started. Your bird needs you to continue this self education you have started so that she can be healthy and live happily in your home.

Jennifer
www.feathersandscales.com