Choosing your Parrot / Bird Cages
One of the most important considerations in choosing bird / parrot cages is making sure that the size of the cages are big enough. Housing your bird in a cage which is too small can lead to behavioural problems such as screaming / screeching, feather plucking, biting etc...
It's common for birds / parrots to spend most of the day in their cages. It is not recommended to leave your bird out of the cage unsupervised. Parrots are inquisitive by nature and love to explore. Many dangers lurk around the house which can be harmful. Electrical cables, house plants, open water (kitchen sink), light bulbs, pens / pencils etc... Parrots often chew when exploring.
Your birds / parrots may spend up to 20 hours per day in their cages, considering the time you spend at work, visiting friends, shopping etc..., so it's important to ensure that his living habitat is comfortable. Your bird will consider the cage as a place of sanctuary. If he gets stressed or frightened he will most probably see his cage as a place of refuge.
Providing your bird with a variety of different sized perches is a good idea. Different sized and textured perches in your cages will exercise the legs. Plenty of toys will keep him from getting bored and will also provide good exercise. Hanging toys from the top of cages will provide an excellent pass time for birds when they are in their cages. Parrots get bored very quickly so a variety of toys is recommended. Rotate them every few days so that they don't get bored of the same toys.
The most obvious consideration when selecting cages is the size of your bird. He will need a cage which is big enough to allow him to flap his wings and to stretch them out to full wing span. A factor which is commonly overlooked when selecting cages is that toys and perches will take up space. At least two or three perches, two or three toys and anything else you wish to spoil him with will reduce the amount of space in the cage. Research the characteristics of the bird you have or are considering. Active birds which are playful and are always on the go may need a bigger cage. If you have set aside an area in your home for your bird's cage then maximise on the space.
