What is MAP? The Model Aviculture Program or MAP is a voluntary aviary inspection and certification program for aviculturists. MAP is a non-profit service organization, not a private business. It has been in effect nation-wide since 1990. In the early eighties a plan was proposed for a model state program for pet birds, the National … Read more
In a previous issue, Building a Good Avian Library, we covered in detail the books which should be contained in the Basic, Advanced and Breeder Level Avian Libraries. We also included a list of recommended avian books, including reviews and ratings. However, due to time and space limitations, we did not address the genus/species oriented books. … Read more
Very few of us in the US have ever seen a kakariki “in the feather”. Information about these birds has been growing for several years, and they sound as if they are a lot of fun. But they are fairly rare in the US, so most of us have never really had the opportunity to … Read more
Introduction The words “A MAP Certified Aviary” are beginning to appear more and more frequently in literature and advertisements for aviaries. The words sound significant, but how many of us know what MAP stands for and what it means? Is MAP important to us and should we care? The answer to the last question is … Read more
“Get your kicks on Route 66” Was the plan. A cross country adventure with one less than our entire menagerie. All but Opal, our wonderful little lovebird, were to head out across the US from Tucson, Arizona destined to arrive in New York a week later, cooking all meals and sleeping in the van. This … Read more
One of the most frequently asked questions from new prospective bird owners is “How much noise does the bird make? There is no simple answer to this question. Verbal skills will even vary from bird to bird within each species. Each bird has his/her own unique personality. If you are considering the purchase of a … Read more
As bird owners, we purchase gaily colored toys to intrigue our companion animals, yet many of us resort to old blankets for cage covers. Instead of throwing an old blanket over the cage, why not create a lasting and beautiful cover that will not only brighten your bird’s cage but also coordinate with your home? … Read more
Statics show that the average parrot may have up to 7 owners in his/her lifetime. Due to changing circumstances in their lives, some parrot owners may need to look for new homes for their pet birds. Some of the more common reasons pet birds are offered for sale are: a change in the family such … Read more
An annual Well Bird Exam is a very important part of monitoring the health of your flock Birds will often show few signs of illness in the initial stages of disease. Early signs will often be very subtle and may be easily missed. By the time that obvious signs of illness are present ( a … Read more
This has been the mildest Winter that I can remember in the Northeast. Today is a clear sunny day in March. Nonetheless, there are gale force winds blowing and we have been without power since early this morning. According to the last automated bulletin from our infamous power company, they have not even dispatched a … Read more