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Bird Care

6 ARTICLES

Pet birds — from budgies and cockatiels to larger parrots — have care needs that look very different from dogs and cats: specialized diets, cage setup, and health signs that are easy to miss until a bird is already seriously unwell. This section covers what first-time and experienced bird owners need to know.

A Blue-and-Gold Macaw perched indoors near a window
BIRD CARE
How Long Do Parrots Live? Lifespan by Species
Parrots live 5 to 60 years by species: budgies 5-10, cockatiels up to 20, African greys 30-50, macaws 30-60 (Merck). Records, myths and what helps.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 6 min read
A pet bird engaging with a foraging puzzle toy
BIRD CARE
Why Puzzle Feeders Matter for Your Pet Bird
Boredom drives screaming, biting and feather plucking in pet birds (Merck). What studies show about foraging enrichment and how to start puzzle feeders.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A budgie and a cockatiel in cages placed near each other
BIRD CARE
Can Budgies and Cockatiels Share the Same Cage?
Budgies and cockatiels can live together, but a cockatiel weighs over twice as much. RSPCA and vet advice on cage size, quarantine and safe introductions.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A pet bird eating fresh, bird-safe vegetables
BIRD CARE
Foods That Are Toxic to Pet Birds
Avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, salty snacks and xylitol are dangerous to pet birds, and non-stick pan fumes can kill fast. The sourced list.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 8 min read
A cockatiel perched inside a well-appointed bird cage
BIRD CARE
Setting Up the Perfect Bird Cage: Size and Placement
A budgie cage should be at least 20 x 12 x 18 in with bars 1/2 in apart; cockatiels need 2 x 2 x 3 ft. Expert advice on placement, perches and cleaning.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A colorful budgerigar perched calmly on a hand
BIRD CARE
Choosing Your First Pet Bird: Budgie or Cockatiel?
Budgies suit apartments and live 5-10 years; cockatiels are bigger whistlers living up to 20 (Merck). Compare noise, space, handling and care needs.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A mature, healthy parrot perched calmly indoors
BIRD CARE
How Long Do Pet Birds Live? A Lifespan Guide by Species
Pet bird lifespans by species: finches and budgies 5-10 years, canaries up to 15, cockatiels up to 20, macaws 30-60 (Merck), and what shortens them.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A person gently checking a pet bird held securely in hand
BIRD CARE
Signs of Illness in Pet Birds: What to Watch For
Birds hide illness; VCA says a bird with symptoms has likely been sick for days to weeks. Early signs, droppings changes and when it is an emergency.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A cockatiel showing visible new pin feathers among its plumage
BIRD CARE
Understanding Bird Molting: What's Normal and What's Not
Most pet birds replace their feathers at least once a year, gradually and evenly (Merck). How long molts last, how to help, and signs of a problem.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A parakeet eating fresh vegetables from a dish
BIRD CARE
What Do Pet Birds Eat? A Complete Diet Guide
Most pet parrots should eat mainly pellets (about 50-80% of the diet, per UC Davis and VCA) plus vegetables, with seeds as treats. How to switch safely.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A quiet, calmly perched budgie inside its cage
BIRD CARE
Why Has My Budgie Suddenly Stopped Chirping?
A quiet budgie is often molting or adjusting, but vets list less chirping as an early sign of illness. Normal causes, warning signs and when to call a vet.
Updated Sep 21, 2026 · 7 min read
A bird feeder mounted on an apartment balcony railing with a small bird perched on it
BIRD CARE
Backyard Bird Feeder Basics for Apartment Balconies
No backyard? A balcony is genuinely enough to attract wild birds. Here's how to set up a feeder that actually works, safely and considerately.
Aug 18, 2026 · 4 min read
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