Dave J. Rupiper DVM, Dipl. ABVP East Petaluma Animal Hospital 1420-B South McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, CA 94954 Phone: (707) 765-9098 Fax: (707) 765-2984 Web: EPAH.net Birds : An Overview - Husbandry Most birds have housing, feeding and breeding requirements particular to that species. Exact requirements are species specific and covered more extensively in other publications. In general most pet psittacines can be housed in an iron, steel or aluminum cage but not in a galvanized one. Galvanized cages contain heavy metals such as zinc and lead which can be toxic to parrots. The bird should be provided with enough space to fully extend both wings plus six inches, perch without hitting the tail on the cage wall or floor, and turn around on the perch without damaging any feathers. Some birds will learn to stay on a perch but should never be allowed out of the cage while unattended. Trimming the wings will help train the bird to stay on the perch or cage and is recommended for all captive pet psittacines except breeding birds. Both wings should be trimmed with only the primary flight feathers cut to the level of the upper coverts. Do not trim secondary flights, primary coverts or secondary covert feathers. If you are unsure which feathers to trim, keep the bird caged until qualified help can be found. Clean the cage, food bowls and perches daily. A general rule is: don't allow the bird to drink any water you wouldn't drink. Housing a bird in a filthy environment will predispose it to bacterial infections, fungal infections and poor quality plumage. Although some parrots can potentially live 50 years most die within 10-15 years due to mismanagement. Education and understanding of each species's needs is a must to ensure longevity.