Welcoming Your New Feathered Friend Home

What to do Before Bringing Your Pet Bird Home for the First Time 

Congratulations! You just brought your new best friend home to live with you forever. You've been to the pet store, read all the how-to guides, and spoke to an avian specialist or veterinarian about how to take care of your pet bird. There are a few first steps to consider when you first arrive home. 

Bird proof the environment around the home. Close all windows, doors, and curtains in areas where your bird could have an accident or escape. Keep other pets away from the bird and in other rooms, give your bird time to adjust to your and your loved ones. For now, keep children away from the bird until they’re not stressed anymore from moving into their new home. 

When your bird first arrives in its new home, they're going to be slightly
frightened. Let them adjust to their new surroundings and the people around
them. Give them 72hrs to be alone before trying to handle them physically. 

During the first week, maintain your bird's original diet in the amounts, types, and frequency to provide stability as they adjust. After the first week, gradually introduce new foods and treats if needed. Make sure to set up an appointment with an avian specialist or the vet to discuss any dietary changes or concerns within the first week. 

Actions speak louder than words. Pay attention to how your bird reacts and behaves to an array of emotions, especially boredom, stress, and anger.  Learn how to interact and recognize when your bird is crazing attention or wants to be alone. By doing this, you’ll establish a trust bond with your pet bird.

Each bird species requires a different amount of sunlight and darkness. Give your pet bird privacy by placing the cover on top of their habitat. A habitat cover will ensure that your bird doesn’t get spooked, aggressive, or stressed in their environment. Use the cover to establish a sleep routine that benefits your pet.  All birds need about  12hrs of darkness for adequate health. 

Spend about an hour a day speaking and praising your bird from a distance. Take it each day at a time, and remember to be patient.  Little by little your pet bird will learn to associate your voice with kindness and will eventually warm up to you. This is a great way to build a trusting relationship with your bird.