In the wild, birds are part of an extended social group-their flock. Regardless of how much attention we lavish on our caged friends, often our birds become lonely because of the lack of natural social interaction. If you’re thinking of adding another bird to your household, here are some tips:

• Stick with the same species: Unless you plan on keeping your birds in separate cages permanently, you should choose birds of the same or similar species. If birds are of the same size and temperament, they’re more likely to bond. After all, small budgies and cockatiels may not be able to defend themselves against larger parrots or macaws.
• Start slowly: After a short quarantine period to ensure that your new bird is healthy, place your birds in the same room in separate cages. As they begin to adjust and trust each other, then you can allow them to interact outside the cage. Watch for signs of aggression or stress from each bird-if none exists, then you’ve successfully expanded your flock.

The staff at Pet Supermarket can answer all your questions about compatible birds, and will help you choose all the best cages, toys, foods, and other supplies to make your home aviary a success. Soon you’ll be surrounded by the sound of happy, healthy chirping!

Since your bird will spend a large part of his or her life in its cage, it’s important to choose wisely. Is it time for a new cage for your friend? Here are some pointers for creating a happy habitat for your bird:

• Bigger is better: No matter what type of bird you have, purchase the biggest cage possible. Birds need room to maneuver freely about their cages. Since a bird’s primary form of activity and exercise is flying, they need plenty of space in which to do so. A larger cage will provide room for plenty of toys and perches to keep your bird happy, as well as allowing for future growth.
• Shapes and sizes count: For smaller birds, cage length is more important than height, since they fly from side to side rather than up and down. For larger, long-tailed birds, cage height is crucial in order to give them room to play and stretch without damaging their beautiful tail feathers.
• Choose correct bar spacing: The spacing and design of the bars on your birdcage is also very important. A cage with wide bar spacing might be fine for a large parrot, but could cause injury to smaller finches or canaries. To avoid injury to your bird, carefully check any decorative designs, doors, or latches that could trap your bird’s wings, beak, or feet.

Remember that birds typically have a longer life span than most pets, so choosing a cage of the highest quality materials available will be worth it in the long run. The staff at Pet Supermarket is ready and waiting to help you choose the perfect cage and supplies for your particular breed of bird.

Since your bird will spend a large part of his or her life in its cage, it’s important to choose wisely. Is it time for a new cage for your friend? Here are some pointers for creating a happy habitat for your bird:

• Bigger is better: No matter what type of bird you have, purchase the biggest cage possible. Birds need room to maneuver freely about their cages. Since a bird’s primary form of activity and exercise is flying, they need plenty of space in which to do so. A larger cage will provide room for plenty of toys and perches to keep your bird happy, as well as allowing for future growth.
• Shapes and sizes count: For smaller birds, cage length is more important than height, since they fly from side to side rather than up and down. For larger, long-tailed birds, cage height is crucial in order to give them room to play and stretch without damaging their beautiful tail feathers.
• Choose correct bar spacing: The spacing and design of the bars on your birdcage is also very important. A cage with wide bar spacing might be fine for a large parrot, but could cause injury to smaller finches or canaries. To avoid injury to your bird, carefully check any decorative designs, doors, or latches that could trap your bird’s wings, beak, or feet.

Remember that birds typically have a longer life span than most pets, so choosing a cage of the highest quality materials available will be worth it in the long run. The staff at Pet Supermarket is ready and waiting to help you choose the perfect cage and supplies for your particular breed of bird.

Improper nutrition is the main cause of death in pet birds. Since feeding requirements vary between species, here are some guidelines:

• Birds can’t live on seed alone: It’s a common misconception that birds can live on seeds only. Although seeds are a favorite food for most birds, they don’t provide enough nutrition. Commercially prepared “pelleted” foods are a must for your bird’s diet– they’re formulated to be nutritionally balanced.
• Variety is essential: In the wild, birds eat a little of everything. Supplementing your bird’s diet with greens, fresh fruits, and vegetables will add valuable nutrition. And, of course, fresh water must always be available.
• Know which foods to avoid: As with any pet, some foods can make your bird ill or be fatally toxic. Foods included on the “do not feed” list are chocolate, alcohol or caffeine, fruit pits, onions, and mushrooms. And never offer avocado in any form-it’s highly poisonous to birds.

Remember, each bird is different, and each will require a specific diet. For more information, just ask the staff at Pet Supermarket. They can provide everything you need to ensure that your bird’s health and happiness.

Birds are great pets for many reasons. They make wonderful companions, and with so many breeds to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your space and budget. Here are some tips to help you decide:

• For the beginner… If you’re a first-time bird owner, finches and canaries are great choices. They’re low maintenance, and can thrive in a small cage. These birds prefer to be watched and heard instead of handled.
• Want more action? For more interaction with your bird, choose a cockatiel, parakeet, or lovebirds. They’re slightly larger, so they need more space. But they also enjoy playing out of the cage, and are often able to learn to talk.
• Get exotic! Cockatoos, African Parrots, Macaws, and Amazons are known for their dazzling colors and amusing antics. Just be aware that these large birds require a long-term commitment, but the investment is well worth it.

No matter what type of bird you purchase, remember that with any pet comes responsibility. If you need more information to help you decide, the staff at Pet Supermarket is there to help. They can help find the perfect “feathered friend” for you!

February is Wild Bird Feeding Month. Here are some ideas to welcome birds into your yard:

• Install attractive feeders, nesting houses, and water supplies.
• Check to see which birds are native to your area, and provide their favorite food.
• Make sure to keep feeders and water sources clean, in order to reduce disease. And don’t forget to refill them often!
• Be mindful of any pesticides that are used around your bird feeders; many are toxic.
• Keep kitty indoors, or make sure your feeders are kitty-proof.
• Lastly, install decals or non-reflective film to any plate glass windows or doors you may have, to protect the birds from collisions with the glass.

Soon you’ll be enjoying the beauty of these birds in your own backyard!

Do you have a feathered friend sharing the holidays with you? If so, here are some tips to ensure a safe holiday for your bird:

• Birds are susceptible to many toxins, especially fumes in the air. This includes holiday-scented candles, potpourris, and air freshener sprays. If inhaled by your bird, any of these substances could be hazardous.
• The most dangerous place for your bird’s cage is the family kitchen. Dangers include inappropriate foods, harmful fumes, and if your bird is out of its cage, open water in the sink or hot pots on the stove pose a deadly risk.

With a little vigilance, your bird can “sing” along with you and yours for a happy holiday season.