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

Possible Hand Feeding Problems

Hand feeding can be a trying time for hand feeder and infant. The most prevalent sources of microbial contamination are food, water supply, other birds in the nursery, feeding and food preparation utensils, and the hand feeder. Prior to the introduction of formulated hand feeding diets for neonates, breeders had to make their own formulas, … Read more

Tons Of Toys

Jazz is preparing for our next motor home jaunt. That means Mama (me) has had to get busy putting together his amusements. The truth is that he doesn’t find much interesting about the store-bought stuff, which can be construed as a blessing since most of it costs a bundle. It seems that the commercial parrot … Read more

Are You A Bird Addict?

Answer Yes Or No To The Following Questions Your bird eats better than you do. You end up with more “goodies” in your grocery cart for the birds than for yourself. You spend more money on bird food than human food. You’ve had to caution your family not to eat something because “it’s for the … Read more

What Is A Bird Breeder?

Recently someone approached me with the question, “What is a Bird Breeder?”Responding to a question of this sort, entails some profound thoughts to answer adequately, fully and correctly, which I am sure I will be unable to accomplish totally. Avian breeders can and quite often consists of individuals or families with only one or two … Read more

Microbiology for the Aviculturist

Being able to do your own cultures and or gram stains can be essential tools to help you determine if and what problems might be brewing in your aviary. This is especially important in the avian nursery. A sick baby needs help immediately, and being able to quickly and inexpensively do cultures for the major … Read more