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Parrot FAQs

-Do Birds Smell? Believe it or not this is the number one question people ask me. That and do they poop? Well yes they poop but bird poop is practically odorless. Some birds have a faint musty smell but that's about it.

-Do I have to spend time with my bird everyday? Well yes and no. All parrots are social animals nature and need a "flock". This flock could be other birds or you and your family. If you a have multiple Budgies for example you wouldn't need to spend time with them everyday. But if you have a lone Cockatiel you would need to spend around an hour a day with him. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you must directly play with him, there are plenty of ways to spend time with your bird, right now Bongo is perched on my shoulder, this little one on one time builds our bond even further.

-How do parrots sleep? How much sleep do they need? Parrots sleep standing up, most of the they tuck there heads on a wing. Before bed you may hear a grinding noise, this is the bird happily telling you that she is ready for bed. Most parrots need at least 10 hours of sleep a night.

-Where do I buy a bird? There are three easy ways to obtain a bird see How to Buy a Bird for more information.

- Can every bird be hand tamed and talk? Most every bird can become Hand Tame though not every bird can talk, just as not every person learns how to whistle. Some species are known to talk better than others though. Species known for a good talking ability are Quakers, Male Budgies, African Greys, and some Amazon Parrots.

-Do birds get sick? Most birds have very sensitive immune systems. If they are exposed to a sudden cold draft they can easily catch a  cold. If they are exposed to any Household Toxin it can prove to be fatal within minutes. Birds are also known for getting into trouble around the house so it would definitely be wise to bird proof every room that your bird will have access too.

-Are Parrots really that smart? Yes, parrots are very smart! Some birds can even use words correctly not just mimicking words the parrots hears. Sometimes parrots can be too smart. In some parrots such as African Greys or Cockatoos if they are depressed or stress they will pluck feathers to relieve their boredom.

-Do birds really need toys? Yes, all parrots need mental simulation or they will become bored and stressed. A bored and stressed parrot's health will decline and it may resort to bad habits such as screaming and feather picking.

Created by Brandon Hamilton

This information is distributed in order to help you care for your bird, we are not responsible for any misuse of this information resulting in unforeseen consequences.

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