Gnats in my bird cage

Question
Hello. I am 12 yeas old, and got a parakeet for my birthday on june 9th. Now it is in july, and gnats are taking over my bird cage area. I don't want them there, and my mom doesn't want them there. But my mom thinks that I should spray incecticidal spray in the area. I don't think this is safe for Ulli. (My bird.) If this is not safe, how can I keep the gnats away?

Answer
Do NOT spray insecticide near your bird- this will kill your budgie (aka: parakeet).

You can set out sticky paper to catch the gnats on, or you can remove the bird from the area and spray the bug spray. But make sure to let the area completely air out (I would say at least 24 hours) before placing your bird back in this area. The fumes are very dangerous/toxic to a bird's sensitive respiratory system.

Here is a copy of some information on Airborne toxins from www.forthebirdsDVM.com:

"Protect Your Bird from Airborne Toxins

Birds have a much more sensitive respiratory system than do humans. Certain airborne toxins that are relatively safe for humans can cause illness or even death in our feathered friends. Non-stick surfaces, such as those found on Teflon-coated cookware, drip pans, irons and self-cleaning ovens can emit fumes (often odorless) if allowed to over heat. Other sources of toxic fumes include spray pesticides, wet paints, rug cleaners, wood smoke, air fresheners, incense, scented candles, hair spray, perfume, hot-oil frying, cleaning products, and burning plastic. Cigarette smoke is also very toxic to birds. In general, any material that gives off strong fumes are a potential hazard to you pet. If you smell something strong, always move your bird to a well-ventilated area and then investigate the source."

Is your bird being kept outside? If this is the case, move your bird indoors to help keep bugs away from him. Also, make sure to always buy well sealed, fresh, packaged bird food. Do not buy from bulk bins or buy food that comes from backs that have rips or anything like that in them. This will also help keep bugs away. Lastly, make sure to clean your bird's cage daily. I recommend lining the bottom of their cage with newspaper and removing the top layer of the newspaper every morning when you are changing your bird's food and water. If you use beddings like corncob or walnut shell- these beddings increase bacteria growth and can attract insects.

I hope this helps.

-Maggie