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Buying a Bird
To judge the health of a bird requires experience and a bit of luck! You can ask a friend who already has a bird if they can help or even recommend a local breeder. Check out the notice board at your Vets, that is sometimes a good place to start your search. The final decision will still be yours but if you can gain some support form an expert you can't go far wrong.
Make sure that the habitat of the birds is clean and not overcrowded with other birds, check that all the birds look healthy and not stressed and losing feathers, you would also benefit from a young bird that has been handled often. A healthy bird will hop and bob about, going from perch to perch, their breathing should be quiet and steady their beaks should not be constantly open with a raspy noise when breathing.. Make sure the eyes are clear with no discharge in the corners. Feathers should be smooth and shiny. Dirty feathers around the vent can mean a sign of kidney problems. Also check the breast muscles, if they are protruding this means the bird is under weight and could be poorly.
Reject any bird that has fluffed up feathers, eye or nasal discharge, defective feathers, crusty skin, dirty vent, overgrown beak, missing toes and laboured breathing!! Sounds a lot to look out for, but common sense usually prevails.
Where did my Exotic Bird come from?
Depending on the different breeds it will determine on whether you have a lone bird or a pair or mixed pair or even a group if you have an aviary this is normally preferred because it means that the birds will get more enjoyment which in turn means your life will be easier and more entertaining for you watching them interact with each other. The only downside is single birds are normally tamer and gain a closer bond with you, but some breeds need to be in pairs as they are not happy alone. So check with the breeder and again ask your friends and your Vet can advise you as well.
