By John Catchpole

Buying a pet, particularly a parrot, is a very big commitment, and because of longevity, a parrot may well outlive you so great thought must be considered if you decide to include one into your life.  If you are buying for a pet (companion) be fully aware it will become a major part of your family, and will probably still be around when your kids have grown up and left home!  Below are some issues you should take into consideration.

• Take great care when considering which species will best suit you and your family
• Be sure you are buying from a reputable seller - do some research and ask questions
• If you live in a densely populated area, make sure you won't upset your neighbours as some parrot and parakeets can be quite noisy
• If you decide to buy a baby bird, make sure it is fully weaned and can independently feed itself
• Make sure you get a comprehensive bill of sale that fully identifies the bird and whether or not it is suitable for the purpose - pet or aviary for example
• A good sign is if the bird has a closed ring (a one piece ring, not split) on its leg or better still, has been micro-chipped
• Make sure you know the bird's history and where it has come from
• Make sure it has been bred in your country and has not been imported, which would mean it had probably been wild caught and survived a gruelling journey
• Consider what will happen to your bird when you go on holiday or are away
• Are you prepared to deal with veterinary bills from time to time?
• A healthy bird should appear 'bright eyed and bushy tailed', if it is not, it may well be unwell.  However, it can be quite tiring spending a lot of time 'on sale' so don't jump to conclusions too quickly!
• Beware of cheap deals as they can turn out to be the most expensive

Photo courtesy of Andrew Marven.

By John Catchpole

As we look over the past 12 months, the need for better care of our animals is growing stronger.  We have long seen the appalling conditions in puppy farms as care and responsibility seems to be right down at the bottom of the list, as opposed to making money, which remains at the top.  Is the same happening with our birds?
 
At Parrots magazine and with the success of our Think Parrots Shows, it is evident that people are wanting information in order that they can take better care of their birds.  In contrast, we seem to see an increase in the number of auctions that take place around the country, where birds and other animals are treated the same as spare car parts, with little concern for their needs and welfare, and seemingly without any requirement for regulation.  The ubiquitous wheeler-dealers clearly put profit above the care of their birds, and auctions and some bird sales are feeding this trend.  There are rumblings within the avian world, from highly respected experts, to bring in self-regulation in order to stamp out unacceptable practices.  Parrots magazine, together with our Think Parrots Show, will always encourage high standards of welfare and will support any forms of legislation that will improve levels of care, and stamp out those who bring the hobby into disrepute.
 
The care of our birds is of utmost importance and their welfare must always come first.
 
Photo courtesy of Judy Irving.

By Pauline James

Kelp is a seaweed or brown algae, which grows in underwater ‘forests’ in the nutrient-rich and cool waters of shallow oceans, where the sun can penetrate.  This extraordinary product, which is one of the most nutrient-rich natural foods found anywhere in the world, grows rapidly at around half a metre per day and in total can reach up to 80m long, and is dried and provided in powder-form.  It is an excellent source of marine minerals, including potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron, and also provides significant quantities of folic acid, essential fatty acids, amino acids, vitamin K, and many of the B group of vitamins.
 
This unique seaweed is also rich in iodine that boosts the thyroid gland, which in turn supports the growth of healthy plumage, and keeps a bird’s skin, beak and nails in good condition.  Kelp also supports the other glands in the body too, including the all-important pituitary gland, and serves to boost overall energy levels.  It also acts as a natural antitoxin and antibiotic, and is thought to help reduce the body’s ability to absorb fat, and could therefore help a more sedentary companion parrot keep trim.

By Pauline James

Parrots absolutely adore homemade cooked treats, and it is an excellent way to get fussy eaters to try new foods.  This recipe for Cranberry Apple Biscuits is delicious, high in nutrients, and most birds won’t be able to resist them, especially if you are tucking into them too!

Cranberry Apple Biscuits
Cranberries are a ‘superfruit,’ and have high nutritional benefits, including high levels of vitamins A, C and K, a diverse supply of minerals, are a good source of phytochemicals, and have powerful antioxidant qualities.  They are also anti-bacterial, anti-cancer and benefit the cardiovascular and immune systems.  Cranberries are closely related to bilberries, blueberries and huckleberries.

3 large egg whites
¾ cup low sugar apple juice
¼ cup low sugar cranberry juice
3 tablespoons nut/olive oil
2 cups flour (preferably wholegrain)
1½ cups quick cooking oats
1 tsp baking powder
½ cup chopped walnuts
2 cups chopped apples
3 tsp of lemon juice
 
Preheat oven to 350°F or 175°C
 
Method:
1. Beat egg whites until almost stiff.
2. Add juices and blend well.
3. Stir in oil.
4. Add flour, oats and baking powder.
5. Mix until well blended.
6. Stir in walnuts and pieces of apple coated in the lemon juice.
7. Drop heaped teaspoonfuls onto a greased baking tray or greaseproof paper.
8. Bake for 10 minutes.
9. When cool, freeze or store in an airtight container in the fridge.