Evaluating Birdpoop

Most people regard what’s in the bottom of their bird’s cage as something they’d rather not look at, but much can be learned by taking a closer look. IN GENERAL: We recommend you use newspaper to cover your cage bottom. Its non-toxic, inexpensive and gives you a clear view of what your bird has dropped … Read more

Are Apple Seeds Safe?

There was mention in the last issue of Eclectus Forum that apple seeds contain cyanide. This information was questioned by one individual who feeds apple seeds to his Eclectus, so I traced the information to a list of foods containing cyanide by Gillian Willis.She explains: ” Sorry if I have confused you…. The body can … Read more

Who’s Training Whom?

Too bad there aren’t standard IQ tests for birds. Jazz is a cautious soul, never daring to throw himself into any activity until he’s completely comfortable. I’m learning that his lack of daring-do certainly doesn’t mean he’s dim-witted. Nor does it bother me in the least that my answer is “No” to the most asked … Read more

Questions From A New Owner

Constance,I just finished reading your article, An Overview of the Eclectus Parrot, on the Internet. After several weeks of research, I narrowed my search to an African Grey, or an Eclectus. Upon further review, I selected the Eclectus. I wanted a bird of great intelligence and talking possibilities, while at the same time a PRETTY … Read more

Birds At Meetings

Many members bring their birds to the club meetings. Since many avian diseases are airborne, you shouldn’t bring any new birds to the meeting that have not been quarantined for a minimum of six weeks. Quarantine means in a separate area from all other birds, preferably another room with a closed door to prevent airborne … Read more

Plants As Air Cleaners

Below is a listing of various safe plants that will rid your home or office of not only carbon dioxide but also 1 or more of 3 other toxins. Benzene: found in gasoline, inks, oils, paints, plastics, rubber, dyes, detergents and pharmaceuticals.Plants that will rid this toxin are: African daisy bamboo plant corn plant chrysanthemum … Read more

Biting Eclectus

June Anderson writes: I have a 17 week old Eclectus female who has always been a real lover until recently. I also have a 15 year old son that our Eclectus, Kiki has always liked.But now, when my son puts his hand in Kiki’s cage, she lunges at him and tries to bite him She … Read more

Andy’s Weight Gain

Andy, now 4, has been a very happy bird from the day he weaned. Always an enthusiastic eater, Andy developed normally in every way to an adult weight of 270 grams. The vet never questioned the weight during our regular checkups, and his breeder said that Andy’s parents (from the second importation in the 80’s) … Read more

The Money Pit

My husband calls Jazz “The Money Pit” and of course, he’s not far wrong. In the dog game, we always said that the purchase price of a pup was nothing compared to the upkeep. Birds apparently are no different. While the purchase price is higher than most dogs, the bird’s life expectancy is generally longer … Read more