Chlamydiosis is a very important and challenging disease of birds because it can be difficult to diagnose and treat, causes significant morbidity and mortality in birds, and is transmissable to humans. Illness caused by chlamydiosis can range from a life threatening system disease to an inapparent infection in a bird. The disease is caused by: Chlamydia … Read more
Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in the number of unwanted birds who are being sold, given up for adoption or abandoned by their owners.This has been a common problem with dogs and cats. But until recently, it has not been a major issue with birds. Unfortunately, the situation may … Read more
Congratulations! You have decided on a species, deciding factors as your lifestyle, time available, and financial investment. You have researched fully and thoroughly, reading, talking with other bird owners, etc. and feel confident in this life-changing, mega move.Where do I buy a bird? From whom, or what? This article deals with the two top ideal … Read more
Teaching responsible breeding techniques is the primary goal of this series of articles. Ignorance harms birds. We must endeavor to learn all that we can to ensure that our cockatiels can breed successfully. In this article, we will take a glance at the many topics that must concern breeders. Future articles in this series on … Read more
It was a slow summer day in our veterinary clinic in southern California. Our veterinarian was out for the rest of the afternoon and the other technicians and I had housekeeping and nursing duties to attend to. Our receptionist came into the back and said, “Lisa, I have a call you need to take”!On the … Read more
One of the major decisions facing any breeder is deciding what type of nest box will work best for his breeding birds. In the wild, the choice of a nesting site is not a problem. Parrots are cavity nesters and will nest in tree cavities or in the hollows of large limbs. The exception to … Read more
A readily accepted fact is seed-only diets lack the proper nutrition for optimum health and life longevity in birds.There are countless variations and modifications of base diets, most of which are heartily recommended, as well. The recipe I personally use and recommend contains wholesome ingredients such as whole grain brown rice, pasta, legumes, a variety … Read more
Part II discusses the amounts of calcium required and also the processes and changes in calcium that take place in laying hens.Calcium is primarily protein bound in the blood. The normal range is 8.5 – 11.5 mg/dl. Laying hens require more calcium during egg shell formation. An estrogen-induced hypercalcemia occurs several days before ovulation. Estrogen … Read more
We want a macaw, but which one, how do we find the right one, and what do we look for in a bird? These are the questions we most frequently get asked on the Macaw Talk message forum.Selecting a macaw as your new life long companion and family member is a very important decision to … Read more
Do birds need grit? This is not only a common question of concern to bird owners, but a source of disagreement as well. Understanding what grit is, its purpose, and the possible problems which may result from its use, can help us in deciding whether or not to offer it to our birds. Most of … Read more