Greetings Bird Lovers

Hello bird lovers! Are you thinking about obtaining your first bird or perhaps adding a new bird to your collection? It is always best to do research on various birds before jumping in and purchasing the first little bundle of feathers that catches your eye. There are so many different types of pet birds available to us, and each offers its own special characteristics. While pet shops will often have a wide variety of birds, not all are able to give accurate pictures of what to expect with each species.

Most breeders are primarily concerned with seeing their birds go to good homes where they will be cared for and loved for the duration of their lives (which can span anywhere from 10 years to 40, or 50 or more, depending on species!) It is important to also know the needs of the bird you are interested in. For example, some types of birds are known for their love of interaction with their person, while others are quite content living in spacious aviaries and admired from afar, not necessarily handled. Some birds are “talkers” while others are “lookers”. It is always a good idea to speak to a wide variety of breeders, bird owners and avian veterinarians before making a hasty purchase.

There are many advantages of purchasing a bird from a local breeder. A good breeder will socialize the bird properly. If you decide to purchase a bird your breeder should guarantee against life-threatening conditions that can be tested, such as polyoma virus, psittacine beak and feather disease and congenital abnormalities. You should have your bird examined by an avian vet within days of purchase. A good breeder will stand behind what they sell. Even if your bird is checked out to be healthy you should quarantine it from your currently owned birds for a minimum of 30 days to be sure it is disease-free. Although the risk of your bird having one of the above mentioned diseases is somewhat rare, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Many of you who live in the Jupiter area may already be familiar the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary. This fine organization operates towards to goal of rehabilitation and eventual release of injured Florida wildlife that is brought to them. If an animal is unable to be repaired and released, it is often used for education. Many programs have been brought to schools and organizations over the years by Busch Wildlife. Should anyone have an emergency situation with wildlife, or even their pet bird or exotic after normal veterinary hours, David Hitzig, the Director, has offered their assistance to us. He can be reached at 561-575-3399. We are very fortunate to have this type of organization available to our community. [For those of you who would like to find a wildlife sanctuary or rehabber near you, an excellent site to check is Wildlife Rehabilitation Information Directory