Outside Fun with Your Bird

Spending time outside with your avian companion can be a fun and fulfilling experience, but there are a few precautions you need to take. Predatory wildlife, insects, sun, heat and lawn chemicals can pose a real threat to your bird.

Predators. While outside with your bird you should always be aware of potential predators. More than one pet bird has fallen victim to a Hawk or a stray dog. Your bird's cage should remain close to you so that you can assist in case of any emergency. Having a fenced in yard or screened in porch can make all the difference.

Plants. Allowing your bird to walk around on the lawn is not such a good idea. There are so many plants that your bird could chew on while having fun in the grass that aren't good for them. So time on the ground should be closely monitored or avoided.

Insects.Be careful of exposure to plants and insects. Birds can pick up mites, ticks and other insects while playing in the grass. An infestation of mites can be a real headache to get rid of, so it's best to avoid the possibility all together. They also can be sensitive to bees and other stinging insects also. Just be ever watchful and if flying insects become a problem, it may be best to go back inside.

Sun. Birds love to sunbathe and it's good for them, but never leave your bird in direct sunlight without access to shade. Never place a cage in the middle of the sunniest part of your yard. A sign of an overheating bird is panting, if your bird begins panting, get it to a cool shaded area quickly.

Heat. If it's so hot you don't want to be outside, then your bird shouldn't be out either. Rule of thumb is temperatures 65-85 degrees are best. They are tropical birds, but most didn't grow up in the jungle so they aren't use to extreme temperatures.

Pesticides and chemicals. Lawns treated with pesticides or other chemicals are not bird friendly. Because they have extremely sensitive respiratory systems and breathing in such chemicals can do a great deal of damage. So if you treat your lawn, your bird shouldn't spend time outside around it.

Protecting your avian companion is an important part of bird ownership. A lot of owners like enjoying mild summer weather with their birds. Just keep these small tips in mind and you will have a great, fun, safe summer with your birds.