Articles & Tips
Doing Some Spring Cleaning? Keep These Bird-Safe Cleaning Tips in Mind
As the season of renewal, spring is the perfect time to clean and declutter your home. If you have a pet bird, however, it’s important to take extra care to use only bird-safe cleaning practices. Many common cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to birds, and even strong fumes from...
What Pet Bird Owners Should Know About Cockatoos
Cockatoos are some of the most charismatic and affectionate pet birds, known for their expressive crests, playful personalities, and strong bonds with their owners. However, they also come with unique challenges that make them best suited for experienced bird owners. If you’re considering adding a...
Debunking Common Myths About Pet Bird Ownership
Birds are fascinating, intelligent, and affectionate companions, but numerous misconceptions persist about what it takes to care for them. These myths may prevent potential bird owners from making informed decisions or lead to unrealistic expectations. Read on to learn the truth behind some common myths...
Meet the Cockatiel: Here’s What to Know Before Bringing One Home
Cockatiels are among the most popular types of pet birds, beloved for their affectionate nature, charming crests, and endearing personalities. Native to Australia, these small parrots make fantastic companions for both new and experienced bird owners. If you’re considering adding a cockatiel to your...
What Pet Bird Owners Should Know About Avian Flu
Over the past few years, a series of outbreaks of avian influenza—commonly known as bird flu—have made headlines across the United States, leaving many bird owners to wonder if their pets or their own health could be at risk. Although wild birds and poultry are at highest risk, it’s important for...
What Bird Owners Should Know About Rhode Island’s HB 5214
On January 29, Rhode Island lawmakers introduced House Bill 5214, which seeks to change how birds are sold within the state. While the bill may appear to be a well-intentioned effort to improve bird welfare, many in the responsible pet care community argue that HB 5214 could severely restrict access...
Celebrate the Incredible Human-Avian Bond this Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms—including the special bond between humans and their feathered friends! Birds have long been cherished companions, offering their owners affection, companionship, and entertainment. This February 14th, take a moment to appreciate the unique...
What to Know About Canaries
Known for their cheerful songs, vibrant colors, and charming presence, canaries have enchanted bird lovers for centuries. Originating from the Canary Islands, Azores, and Madeira, these small finches can serve as wonderful companions for those seeking a low-maintenance pet. However, as with any other...
Understanding Feather Plucking: What Bird Owners Need to Know
While feather plucking is a relatively common behavior in pet birds, it can be deeply distressing for bird owners. If you’ve ever noticed your bird pulling out or damaging their own feathers, you’ve probably wondered what causes them to do so and how to address it. Read on to learn about the potential...
Tips for Keeping Your Pet Bird Warm During Winter
As the winter months bring chilly temperatures, it’s important to take extra precautions to ensure that your pet bird stays warm and comfortable. Birds are naturally equipped with feathers that provide insulation, but for many pet birds—particularly those not acclimated to cold weather—additional...
Meet the Caique: Here’s What to Know Before Bringing One Home
Caiques (pronounced “kai-eeks”) are small, vibrant parrots known for their playful personalities, boundless energy, and bold nature. Native to the forests of South America, these captivating birds are often referred to as the “clowns of the parrot world” due to their mischievous...
How to Introduce New Birds to Each Other
If you already have one or more pet birds and are planning to bring another into your home, it’s crucial to approach the introduction process carefully to ensure a smooth transition for both your existing bird(s) and the newcomer. Considering that many birds are territorial by nature, introducing a...
5 Tips for Keeping Pet Birds Safe During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and family gatherings, but it also brings unique challenges for pet bird owners. From decorations to festive foods and increased household activity, your bird’s safety and well-being can be at risk without proper precautions in place. Read on for five...
How to Decode Your Bird’s Body Language
Birds, and parrots in particular, are incredibly expressive creatures. Through subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) changes in their body language, parrots communicate their feelings, needs, and even their mood swings. Learning to read your parrot’s body language will not only help to deepen your...
What to Know About Amazon Parrots
Amazon parrots are lively, intelligent birds known for their bright colors, strong personalities, and impressive vocal abilities. Native to the lush rainforests of Central and South America, these parrots make wonderful companions—but they also require a high level of care, commitment, and...
10 Steps to Bird-Proofing Your Home
Bringing a pet bird into your home is the start of an exciting and rewarding adventure—but it also carries several responsibilities, particularly when it comes to creating a safe environment for your new companion. Birds are naturally curious and may explore by chewing, climbing, or squeezing into...
Common Health Issues in Pet Birds and How to Prevent Them
Owning a pet bird can be an incredibly rewarding experience—but as with any other pet, it carries many responsibilities, particularly when it comes to keeping your bird healthy and comfortable. Birds are masters at hiding illness, a survival trait that helps them avoid predators in the wild. As a...
What to Know About Ringneck Parrots
Ringneck parrots, or Indian Ringneck Parakeets (Psittacula krameri), are a popular choice for bird enthusiasts due to their striking appearance, playful personalities, and remarkable intelligence. Originating from India, parts of Africa, and southeast Asia, these birds have gained popularity across the...
Key Tips for Socializing Your Pet Bird
As naturally social creatures that typically live in flocks in the wild, adequately socializing your pet bird is crucial for its emotional well-being and ability to bond with other birds in your home and the human members of your family. In fact, without socialization, birds may become shy...
What are the Most Vocal Types of Pet Birds?
Compared to other types of pets, one of the most unique features of birds is their potential to develop vocal abilities. However, not all species are talkative, and it’s always important to keep in mind that each bird is an individual—a bird from a species that is known for its vocal abilities may...
Discover the Charm of Parakeets with These 10 Fun Facts
With their vibrant colors, playful personalities, ability to mimic sounds, and relatively simple care requirements, parakeets are among the most popular types of pet birds worldwide. Whether you’re an experienced bird owner or just curious about these charming creatures, here are some fun facts...
National Pet Bird Day is Just Around the Corner—Get Ready to Celebrate on September 17!
National Pet Bird Day is Just Around the Corner—Get Ready to Celebrate on September 17! Attention, pet bird owners—get ready to celebrate the 6th annual National Pet Bird Day on September 17! Created by the Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK), this special day celebrates the joys and...
Key Things to Know About Your Pet Bird’s Health
As complex and delicate creatures, taking proper care of your pet bird’s health is crucial for providing them with a long, happy, and comfortable life. While specific guidelines may vary from bird to bird, we’ve compiled the following overview of key factors to keep in mind regarding your bird’s...
Which Pet Birds Live the Longest?
With lifespans that may reach several decades, birds tend to live much longer than most other types of pets. However, average lifespan can vary greatly among different species of birds; smaller species, such as parakeets, finches, and lovebirds, often live only 5-20 years, while larger birds, such as...
Need Help with Avian Care or Rehoming a Bird? Consult Your Local Pet Retailers!
Owning a pet bird can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but there may come a time when you need some extra help with avian care or even rehoming your feathered friend. No matter the questions or concerns you may have about caring for your bird, consulting the professional resources available to...
What are the Quietest Pet Birds?
Birds are wonderful pets, bringing color, song, and companionship into our lives. However, not all birds are suited to every household. For those living in apartments or other homes with shared walls, or for individuals who may be sensitive to noise, finding a quieter species is crucial to ensure a...
Exploring the Fascinating Sensory Abilities of Pet Birds
As a lover of pet birds, you probably already know that they are remarkable creatures—not only for their beautiful colorings and intriguing personalities, but also for their sophisticated sensory abilities. Understanding these senses can help you gain a better idea of how your bird experiences the...
What to Know Before Sending Your Pet Bird to an Avian Boarding Facility
If you’re planning a trip and won’t be able to take your pet bird along, you’ll likely need to either hire a bird sitter or utilize a boarding facility that accepts birds. While the idea of leaving your feathered friend at an avian boarding facility may feel daunting, a little advance planning...
Weight Management for Parrots: A Vital Aspect of Avian Health
Just as with humans, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for parrots and other birds. Regularly monitoring your bird’s weight can help detect early signs of illness and prevent obesity-related health issues. To assist with this process, our friends at the Hagen Avicultural Research Institute...
Optimize Health and Nutrition for Baby Birds with Hand Feeding Formulas from Mazuri
Hand feeding a baby bird is an intricate yet immensely rewarding task that can nurture a strong bond between the bird and their owner. However, experts typically recommend that only experienced bird owners attempt hand feeding, as the process requires a significant amount of time, patience, and the right...
How Does the Pre-License Inspection Process Work Under the New USDA/APHIS Rules?
With a goal of ensuring the health and well-being of birds subject to the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued new regulations last year imposing various requirements on bird breeders, dealers...
Key Characteristics of 5 Popular Pet Birds
One of the most exciting things about having a pet bird is that each individual bird has their own unique personalities, characteristics, and behaviors. However, if you’re considering adding a feathered friend to your household, understanding the common traits of different bird types can help guide...
Checklist for New Pet Bird Owners
If you’re a first-time bird owner, bringing your new feathered friend into your home is an exciting step and the beginning of what should be a long and fulfilling companionship. However, taking care of a bird is a major commitment that can feel overwhelming at first. To help ensure a smooth transition...
Join Us in Celebrating National Pet Bird Day 2024 on September 17
Attention, pet bird owners and lovers—be sure to mark your calendars for September 17, 2024, which will be the 6th Annual National Pet Bird Day! This special day of celebration was created in 2019 by the Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK) to recognize all of the wonderful ways in which...
Responsible Rehoming: What to Do if You Need to Find a New Home for Your Pet Bird
Parting ways with a beloved pet bird can be a heart-wrenching decision—but sometimes, circumstances arise that necessitate finding a new home for your feathered friend. Whether you’re facing a change in living situation, health or financial issues, or other challenges, it’s crucial to approach...
What to Do if Your Pet Bird Flies Away
For many pet bird owners, the idea of their bird escaping is one of their worst fears. While this situation can be extremely distressing for birds and owners alike, here are some steps you can take to increase the chances of safely recovering your feathered friend: Stay calm and act quickly As soon as...
What are the Friendliest Types of Pet Birds?
Birds of all species have their own unique characteristics, with lovable traits ranging from their vibrant plumage to their remarkable intelligence to their engaging personalities. For many bird owners—particularly those who are new to the world of avian companions—the likelihood that a bird will...
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pet Bird
Bringing a pet bird into your home can add many years of joy and companionship to your life, but it requires careful consideration to ensure lasting happiness for both the bird and your family. With the diverse range of bird species available, it’s important to understand the unique needs and characteristics...
5 Essential Tips for Training Your Pet Bird
With their high levels of intelligence, many pet birds are responsive to training and can be taught a variety of exciting skills, from performing tricks and tasks to repeating words and phrases. Training your avian companion can also yield several benefits, such as reducing unwanted behaviors, enhancing...
Reminder: New USDA Rule Affecting Pet Birds Now in Effect
Last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) issued a new regulation that imposed various requirements on bird breeders, dealers, exhibitioners, and other parties. At MyBird, we would like to remind those involved in the pet bird industry...
Taking Birds Outside
Can Pet Birds Be Taken Outside? Pet birds have long been cherished companions in many households, admired for their beauty, intelligence, and often for their ability to mimic human speech. However, a common question may arise among bird owners who are seeking new ways of entertaining and interacting...
How to Pet a Bird: Handling Techniques to Ensure Your Bird’s Comfort
With their vibrant plumage, high intelligence, and intriguing behaviors, birds make wonderful pets. However, compared to dogs and cats, birds require a more careful approach when it comes to handling and petting. As a bird owner, understanding proper techniques for interacting with your feathered friend...
5 Fun Facts About Your Pet Bird’s Feathers
With a diverse range of colors, patterns, and forms, bird feathers are not just for flight or decoration. These intricate structures play a crucial role in a bird’s life, influencing everything from communication to temperature regulation. As avian experts Dr. Kemba Marshall, DVM, DABVP (Avian) and...
How to Choose the Right Habitat Size for Your Pet Bird
As the place where your pet bird will likely spend the most time, it’s crucial to choose an appropriately sized cage or aviary. A common pitfall is housing birds in cages that are too small, which can not only impede the bird’s comfort and happiness, but may also pose a safety risk. In the following...
Feeding and Watering Pet Birds
As with most living creatures, a nutritious, balanced diet is the foundation of a healthy life for pet birds. While it may be tempting to think that providing your bird with a dish of water and some seed is adequate, birds’ dietary needs are generally more complex, and may vary based on their type...
Budgeting for a Pet Bird
Pet birds can bring many years of joy and companionship to your life—but as with any other pet, purchasing and caring for a bird requires an investment of time and money. While the specific costs may vary greatly depending on the type of bird you choose, understanding the different expenses involved...
Pet Bird Behavior
Just like people, different birds can have their own behavioral tendencies and personalities, which may vary based on the type of bird, their age, and several other factors. If you have a pet bird or you’re thinking of adding one to your family, understanding the factors that can shape their behavior...
Pet Bird Life Expectancy
When looking to adopt a pet, it’s important to know the life expectancy of any species you are considering. Some pets, particularly birds, typically have long lives, and beyond the joy and happiness they can bring it is helpful for owners to know the costs in both time and money that is required when...
Unlocking the World of Avian Certification Courses through IBPSA
Do you work in avian pet care? Do you have staff who work with pet birds? When it comes to providing top-notch care for our feathered friends, it’s essential to be well-informed and trained in avian pet care. The International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA) offers a range of certification...
Everything You Need to Know About Bird Treats
Treats are an excellent way to add variety to your bird’s regular diet and show your affection and care for them. Bird owners have a wide range of options when it comes to different types of treats, from treat sticks to cooked snacks, and many fruits and vegetables also offer delicious and nutritious...
Budget-friendly Birds
Pets, and birds in particular, can bring a lot of joy and benefit to a home, but all the costs of caring for a bird over its life can quickly add up. For owners looking to add a bird to their home but are worried about the expense, there are a number of birds that are budget-friendly and low...
The Best Type of Perches for Pet Birds
Perches are some of the most important items in your bird’s cage, and whether for standing, playing or cleaning their beaks, a well-designed perch is crucial for a bird’s health, comfort and well-being. Birds spend a significant amount of time on their perches, so it is important to provide a variety...
Traveling with Birds
Many bird owners will at some point need or want to transport their birds, and whether it is a car ride or on a flight, there are some important rules and guidelines to keep in mind. While some birds, particularly those who have not traveled before or rarely leave the home, might experience some anxiety...
Can My Bird Catch My Cold?
Seasonal colds or flus are a common fixture, often requiring missed school or work, and some pet owners may worry that their cold could affect the non-human residents of their home. While passing an illness to a bird is rare, there are some things to keep in mind if you or a family member is sick and...
Join Us in Celebrating National Pet Bird Day on September 17
At the Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK), we are getting excited for the 5th Annual National Pet Bird Day, coming up soon on September 17! We established this special day in 2019 as an opportunity to celebrate the many ways in which pet birds enrich our lives, while also educating current...
USDA Issues New Regulations Affecting Pet Birds
On March 23, 2023, a new rule issued by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) took effect, imposing various requirements on bird breeders, dealers, exhibitioners, and other parties. While the rule was designed to ensure that all birds...
Factors to Consider When setting Up Your Bird’s Cage
When bringing a pet bird into your home, one of the most important steps to create a comfortable environment for them is to purchase the right cage and set it up properly. A well-equipped cage or aviary will not only ensure your feathered friend’s safety, but will also help them acclimate in their...
The Do’s and Don’ts of Bonding with Your Pet Bird
Adding a pet bird to your family can bring several years of joy and companionship. However, many bird owners—even those who have plenty of experience with feathered friends—may find that they have difficulty bonding with their new pets, as some birds exhibit signs of fear, shyness, or even...
Pet Bird Food Delivery Apps
Post-pandemic purchasing of pet bird food through delivery apps has remained high. Here are some highlights of the category’s popularity on apps like Instacart. The Continued Popularity of Pet Bird Food on Delivery Apps The pandemic saw huge growth in the delivery service sector, and the preference...
What to Do if Your Pet Bird Dies
The death of a pet is a painful experience for any owner, and particularly in the case of birds whose lifespans often number in the decades, this sense of loss can be overwhelming. Birds often become more than just pets—they are loved and treasured members of your family, and just like any other family...
Expert Tips for How to Properly Bathe Your Pet Bird
Among the many steps involved in properly caring for your pet bird, regular bathing is important for several reasons. Specifically, bathing helps promote healthy feather grooming, removes excessive dust, and alleviates dry skin—in fact, many birds crave baths during the winter due to the dryness of...
National Pet Bird Day 2023
Celebrate the 5th Annual National Pet Bird Day This September 17! The Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK) created National Pet Bird Day as a way to celebrate the joys and benefits of pet bird ownership. Attention pet bird owners and lovers—be sure to mark your calendar for September...
Poison Prevention for Pet Birds
Birds are sensitive to many items and substances commonly found in homes, and it is important for owners to be aware of environmental hazards that can be poisonous to pets. Something as simple as a candle burning or a bar of chocolate left unattended can quickly impact the health of your feathered...
How to Tell if Your Pet Bird is Sick
Birds can be wonderful companions, but like any other living creature, they can become ill from time to time. As soon as you bring a pet bird into your home, it’s critical to establish a relationship with an avian veterinarian in order to support your bird’s health and longevity. Annual wellness...
Top 3 Most Talkative Birds
Birds make for great pets for a number of reasons, but the vocal abilities of many species are what often draws owners to add a bird to their home. Depending on the type of bird, their vocalizations range from replicating sounds like microwaves or doorbells, to singing songs or even learning and repeating...
Best Birds for Busy Owners
Pets are a great way to make a house feel like a home, but for owners with busy lives it can be impractical to have a pet that requires a lot of care and attention. For those who want the joys of a pet without the big time commitment, birds can be a compelling choice. While birds are social and love...
What Are the Best Pet Birds for Beginners?
While birds are an increasingly popular option for pet owners, many budding bird lovers may find that certain types can be particularly challenging for those without a lot of experience. Many birds are susceptible to behavioral problems if their needs aren’t met, and some can cause a lot of noise and...
What to Know Before Adopting a Bird
Birds can bring a lot of fun and joy to a home, but it is important before investing in a bird to assess your habits and make sure adopting a bird is really the right choice for your situation. Birds have unique requirements that are different from many other household pets like dogs and cats, and many...
Why Birds Make Great Pets
Birds have become popular with pet owners, with 8% of U.S. households now including a pet bird. While still not as popular as dogs or cats, many animal enthusiasts are beginning to see why adding a bird to their homes can bring a lot of benefits. Birds can be great companions, often live long lives and...
Pet Bird Food Trends 2022
3 Pet Bird Food Trends to Watch for in 2022 The past few years have been difficult for many sectors and industries, with periods of growth and decline. During 2020, the pet food industry surged to over $100 billion in sales for the first time in history, spurred on by pandemic buying habits. Time spent...
A Guide to Understanding and Caring for Your Pet Cockatiel
Easily tamed and friendly in nature, cockatiels are among the world’s most beloved types of pet birds. The smallest members of the cockatoo family, they can learn to speak and whistle but do not have the loud screeching voice commonly found in other types of cockatoos. If you have a pet cockatiel or...
National Pet Bird Day 2022
Join MyBird as We Gear Up to Celebrate National Pet Bird Day on September 17! For pet bird owners and lovers, a special day of celebration is just around the corner—September 17 is officially National Pet Bird Day! Established by the Bird Enjoyment & Advantage Koalition (BEAK) in 2019, National...
Pending Legislation Under the COMPETES Act Poses Threat to Pet Bird Community
The U.S. Congress is currently deliberating on a sweeping piece of legislation that would have a harmful impact on the pet bird community if enacted. Known as the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act (or the COMPETES Act), the bill contains amendments to the Lacey Act that would allow the federal government...
Pet Parrot Care Sheet
With their exquisite coloring, high level of intelligence, and sociable disposition, parrots are among the most popular choices for companion birds. If you have a pet parrot or are considering adding one to your household, learning how to properly care for your bird is essential for ensuring its long-term...
All About Budgies
As one of the most popular types of pet birds, budgerigars—commonly known as budgies—are much-loved for their vibrant coloring and sociable, playful nature. Although they are native to Australia, these small parakeets belonging to the parrot family have been bred in captivity for the pet trade since...
The Do’s and Don’ts of Acquiring a Pet Bird Responsibly
From choosing the right diet for your bird to creating a safe, comfortable habitat, there are many steps to take as a responsible pet bird owner. However, one of the most important steps occurs before you even bring your bird home. At a time when the number of disreputable bird sellers in the market...
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Parrots
1. One word: zygodactyl Like many of our favorite bird species, parrots have four toes on both feet. However, their feet are special split into two toes pointing backward and two toes pointing forward or zygodactyl. This allows parrots have a strong grip and excellent climbing capabilities. It has even...
How to Get in Touch with the Right Vet for Your Bird
Pet birds are not as common as cats or dogs—meaning it can be more challenging to find a specialty veterinarian that is suited to avian needs. However, it is essential that your bird develops a relationship with a trusted avian veterinarian. Here are our top reasons for getting in touch with a...
The Top 3 Most High-Maintenance Birds
The Amazon parrot These gorgeous birds are known for their outstanding vocal abilities, and they’ll let you know why—right away! Amazons are well-suited for an owner that can handle a high energy toddler, and much like a toddler, it’s not recommended you keep one perched on your shoulder. They...
10 Foods You Should Never Feed Birds
1. Avocado Every part of the avocado contains persin, which is bad news for birdie. This fruit contains unhealthy fats and can cause series cardiac toxicity in birds, especially smaller species. Better option: a carrot stick! 🥕 2. Coffee Caffeine-jitters are the worst—just imagine how terrible it...
What’s in a Name? Ideas for Every Birdie
Move over Rover, there’s a new pet in need of a name in town. While we’re used to Fluffy for the cat and Fido for the dog, pet birds offer a unique challenge when it comes to the name that will identify them for life. From the strong and heroic “Kong” to the diminutive “Peekaboo,” we love...
5 Reasons Why Tyler Rugge and His Birds Are #Goals
If there’s one birdie/human duo we can’t get enough of, it’s Tyler Rugge and all his adorable birds. An avid animal lover, Tyler has over 30 pets including dogs, lizards, snakes, fish, a hedgehog and you guessed it, birds! While it may sound like this YouTube vlogger lives in a zoo, we’re always...
Birds of a Feather Flock Together: The Joys of Multiple Bird Ownership
If there’s one thing that’s the same across all bird species, it’s that birds are very social creatures. This means that they can get lonely and bored when we’re not around since most pet birds love to play, talk and interact with their owners. As much as we wish we could, the idea of staying...
Iconic Movie Birds
Not only have birds made their way into our hearts, but they’ve made their way into some of our favorite films. Whether they’re featured as real-life birds or life-like caricatures, movie birds bring a beautiful element to the screen that we just can’t get enough of. Plus, they’re often portrayed...
Why the Cockatiel is a Great First Bird
Who knew that when becoming a first-time bird parent, one of the most challenging things would be selecting a species? Decisions, decisions. To help narrow your search, there is one species that we cannot squawk enough about. With its bright yellow head, rosy-red cheeks, cuddly demeanor and cheerful...
This One’s for the Birds – Giving Thanks to Our Beautiful, Feathered Friends
It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Before you know it, pumpkin spice everything will turn into peppermint everything and we’ll be ringing in the new year. But until that happens, we thought it fitting to reflect on what we’re thankful for this year. As surprising...
