| Subject | Date Asked |
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| Green Cheek Conure behavior changes | 11/21/2009 |
Q: My husband & I have a 9 year old green cheeked conure who has undergone some behvior changes ...
A: Oh no kidding - I originally lived in a small town just outside of Saratoga and before Lk. George. ...
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| Green Cheek Conure behavior changes | 11/21/2009 |
Q: My husband & I have a 9 year old green cheeked conure who has undergone some behvior changes ...
A: There are a couple of things that keep popping up in your description of your vet's comments that ...
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| Green Cheek Conure behavior changes | 11/20/2009 |
Q: My husband & I have a 9 year old green cheeked conure who has undergone some behvior changes ...
A: Don't you wish the vet found something? It's so much easier to have a problem diagnosed - a ...
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| Blue Fronted Amazon Parrot Healthy Diet | 11/20/2009 |
Q: I have been looking online for a decent list of healthy and unhealthy/toxic foods for parrots but ...
A: I welcome the opportunity to give both you and your doctor the proper information about birds ...
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| Alexandrine 6 weeks old bites | 11/20/2009 |
Q: Hey, I recently got an Alexandrine for Christmas (early Xmas Pressie) from a breeder my mother ...
A: Don't worry about so many questions. I'd rather you ask right away than have things progress and ...
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| Female Congo African Grey laying egg | 11/19/2009 |
Q: Our female Congo African Grey laid an egg this morning. She is 18 years old and has never done this ...
A: Leaving the egg(s) is the right answer. Feel free to print this out and share it with that vet so ...
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| blue and gold Macaw | 11/18/2009 |
Q: Our Macaw We have had over 20 years has been sitting on eggs for a few months, they are gone now(not ...
A: Let me go over a few things here and hopefully we can work together in your lovely macaw's care. ...
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| indian ring neck | 11/17/2009 |
Q: i would like to know which are the best ways to care and train my new pet your advice will be ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| Congo African Gray problems | 11/17/2009 |
Q: i recently go a 4 month old Congo African Gray, we have had him for about 2 weeks now and have been ...
A: Toweling is something we do when we're trying to subdue a difficult bird in a difficult situation. ...
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| 3yo alexandrine | 11/16/2009 |
Q: My 3yo alexandrine seems to constantly malt, he has a short time where his feathers are beautiful ...
A: Nutritional issues accounts for up to 90% of feather problems according to some published ...
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| Cockatoo | 11/16/2009 |
Q: What time should i put my cockatoo to bed? He gets up between 6am and 7am..
A: Establishing a separate "sleep cage" is a good idea. A smaller cage with just the basics: A soft ...
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| Blue & Gold wing feather | 11/15/2009 |
Q: My Blue %26 Gold has a wing feather coming in that is all yellow (Instead of blue on top and yellow ...
A: It's possible that this is a one time only thing and that come his next molt it will be normal ...
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| quakers | 11/15/2009 |
Q: i have a 2 year old female blue quaker the bird shakes and wobbles when she walks in the cage can ...
A: It's very difficult to know for sure what's going on without a hands on exam, so let me go over ...
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| sunflower seeds | 11/15/2009 |
Q: are raw sunflower seeds grown in the yard safe for a conure, no pesticides were used at all.
A: You might be surprised to learn that sunflower seeds overall are not good for birds. I don't allow ...
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| indian ringnecks | 11/14/2009 |
Q: Ive had my imdian ringneck for about a month now. chaos is about 8 months old. hi is not tame. i am ...
A: Probably not. If humans can comfortably survive the indoor temp, he can too. However, I'd prefer ...
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| mustached | 11/14/2009 |
Q: Can I take a Mustached baby out the nest and handfeed it
A: If this is a wild bird, hatched to wild parents and in a natural nest, no. It's illegal for a ...
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| diet change | 11/14/2009 |
Q: My 3 month baby macaw takes cerelac(hand feeding) in the morning and evening.but in mid day I give ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| I want to set free my mom lovebirds | 11/14/2009 |
Q: my name is Teresa. My mom was recently given a couple of lovebirds. They used to belong to a good ...
A: I used to feel the same way and think the same thing, so I truly understand. Here's what you need ...
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| rescue congo african grey parrot | 11/13/2009 |
Q: I just got a CAG...It was a rescue bird, she has no foot band, I don't think she is tame. Is it ...
A: I will certainly give it my very best effort as I'm positive you will. When I bring a bird into ...
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| maccaw has broblem in leg nerve | 11/13/2009 |
Q: well my 3 month baby macaw fallen last week hardly on left leg so she couldn't walk properly I take ...
A: The good news is that he didn't find a break or fracture. Birds are incredible when it comes to ...
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| My 2.5 Year Old Congo African Grey Loves Men and Not Me | 11/13/2009 |
Q: Two weeks ago, I purchased an African Grey thought to be a female although there has been no DNA ...
A: Yes, absolutely your sweet songs count! Keep it up. You have wonderful instincts and I think you ...
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| parrot laying eggs | 11/13/2009 |
Q: Our parrot is constantly laying eggs and wont stop. Plus she doesn't have a male partner. We try ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| My 2.5 Year Old Congo African Grey Loves Men and Not Me | 11/12/2009 |
Q: Two weeks ago, I purchased an African Grey thought to be a female although there has been no DNA ...
A: This sort of rejection is heartbreaking isn't it? Sometimes, our reaction to their rejection is ...
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| Mustache Parakeet weaning and biting. | 11/11/2009 |
Q: I would like to know what is the correct age to wean these parakeets at. My bird is 11 weeks now. ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| african grey parrot | 11/11/2009 |
Q: We are considering adopting an 18 y/o African grey. how often does it need vet care and does it ...
A: A lot of people need to work or leave for other reasons for several hours during the day. When you ...
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| live in neighbours! | 11/11/2009 |
Q: I have two ring neck parrots in the same cage, and have just adopted an unwanted adult lovie. Can i ...
A: The top reasons for not doing this is because cages are rarely big enough for more than two. Each ...
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| Solid Foods | 11/11/2009 |
Q: Our African Grey is 10 weeks old. We are feeding him Handrear Gold stage 2 with great success. We ...
A: I wouldn't introduce seeds until he's weaned onto pellets. As for nuts, go ahead and enjoy! Start ...
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| african grey parrot | 11/11/2009 |
Q: We are considering adopting an 18 y/o African grey. how often does it need vet care and does it ...
A: Let me give you too much information rather than too little ok? As for vitamin shots? ...
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| My 4 month old Indian Ringneck bits and wont let go! Please help! | 11/10/2009 |
Q: I just got my Ringneck Parakeet a few weeks ago, he has been hand fed, very tame, loves to be pet, ...
A: The first thing I'd suggest is providing a "sleep cage" . It doesn't have to be a big cage, just ...
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| Weaning Baby Cockatoo | 11/9/2009 |
Q: I have recently bought a goffins cockatoo she is 3 months on the 15th of this month. I got her and ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| pet parrot | 11/9/2009 |
Q: worried that our parrot has eye infection.It is a bank holiday where I am and was checking internet ...
A: We can approach this from the two most likely angles of concern: Nutrition and sleep. So much ...
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| skin irritation in african grey | 11/8/2009 |
Q: my african grey parrot keeps scratching the back of its neck and its losing its feathers in that ...
A: How old is the bird? Male, female? When did this start? Are you seeing bald spots or any sores ...
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| African grey ill | 11/8/2009 |
Q: My African grey smokie is 29years old she has developed this weasing and rasping noise when she is ...
A: There is a type of mite that a wide range of birds may be infected with, called Air Sac Mites. ...
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| my parrot | 11/8/2009 |
Q: she was raised at home from time she was born 3 years ago. I got her about 6months ago an was ...
A: I am an advocate of covering, but I take it a step further with a sleep cage. A typical day in ...
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| live bug found in African Grey poo?! | 11/7/2009 |
Q: This morning, I took our 6 month old male BnG and 11 month old female Grey out of their cage, put ...
A: Where are the birds kept? Indoors only or allowed outside? How old are they and how long have ...
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| compatible birds | 11/6/2009 |
Q: I have a conure sun parrot and budgie, will they be okay together in the same cage, I have pushed ...
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. Often the ...
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| painted conure | 11/6/2009 |
Q: I have a 4 mth old painted conure and recently have noticed a foul odor mainly about the rectal ...
A: Whenever there's an odor noticeable from either end of your bird - it absolutely must be evaluated ...
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| Severe macaw | 11/6/2009 |
Q: I have a four and a half month old severe macaw. She is wonderful. Yesterday she started shaking ...
A: Is this head bobbing and then the delivery of regurgitated, partially digested food or are you ...
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| tiel hen plucking | 11/5/2009 |
Q: she is picking all of the feathers under her wings. she isn't picking til blood, but she is picking ...
A: No, honestly, it shouldn't cost that much. Let's start with one step at a time though ok? Have ...
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| tiel hen plucking | 11/5/2009 |
Q: she is picking all of the feathers under her wings. she isn't picking til blood, but she is picking ...
A: What you're describing is wing web dermatitis and you're probably right that it was brought on by ...
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| regarding runny nose in grey | 11/4/2009 |
Q: his nose constantly runs most days some days it doesnt could you sugest anything that will help him ...
A: Our blue & gold macaw (Sadie) has this condition flare up twice a year during high pollen counts. ...
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| Meyers Parrot | 11/4/2009 |
Q: I brought a Meyers parrot just over a week ago, he is 2-3 yrs old and close rung.He was well looked ...
A: I'll bet you can do this yourself and I'm going to give you a step by step to show you how The ...
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| My Senegal Parot | 11/3/2009 |
Q: He seems to try and connect with me like letting me scratch his head and beak while he hangs on the ...
A: What a cute name! I'm very glad you're not hurling him. Let's see if we can fix this The first ...
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| Meyers parrot keeps laying eggs | 11/3/2009 |
Q: She has always successfully layed eggs. And always just one She is approx 12-15 yrs old. Last week ...
A: OK, you're right - this is something we need to stop in order to preserve her health. It sounds ...
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| biting parrot | 11/3/2009 |
Q: i have just got a amazon green parrot which is 7 years old i have had it a week it is biting and ...
A: It's never too late and with a bird that will live into it's 40's or even older, 7 years old is just ...
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| ringneck parrot | 11/2/2009 |
Q: there. please can you advise at what age will my baby ringneck be able to feed him/herself. it is ...
A: It's just about time for your little one to wean When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful ...
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| Alexandrines | 11/1/2009 |
Q: I have a 6 week and 9 week old alex. 6 weeks is a female amd 9 weeks is a male. they are not related ...
A: It won't matter what sex combination you have as long as you keep them separate. And it's quite ...
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| Seizure in Blue and Gold Macaw | 10/31/2009 |
Q: My 11 y/o Blue and Gold Macaw has seizure type episodes when she is given a shower. She always loved ...
A: I commend you for the exceptional care you're giving this bird and wish more owners were this ...
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| Discolored Congo African Grey Eye | 10/31/2009 |
Q: Good evening Rev. Dr. Abbott. I have a concern about the color of my Congo African Grey's left eye. ...
A: This doesn't look like an emergency right now and as long as you don't see it getting worse or any ...
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| africa gray | 10/30/2009 |
Q: can u make toys from everyday things we would normally throw away an can i give my parrot human ...
A: First and foremost, do not give any bird any human vitamin. Birds are far better off getting all of ...
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| Seizure in Blue and Gold Macaw | 10/30/2009 |
Q: My 11 y/o Blue and Gold Macaw has seizure type episodes when she is given a shower. She always loved ...
A: This had to scare the life out of you! Tell me more about what the vets did in the way of ...
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| Weak positive result for Chlamydiosis | 10/30/2009 |
Q: If my parrot (Pionus) tested "weak positive" for Chlamydiosis/psittacosis is he contagious? He ...
A: Quite often the bird doesn’t show noticeable symptoms, which can be very dangerous since this is a ...
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| feather plucking | 10/30/2009 |
Q: i just bought a breeding pair cockatiel, female lutino keeps plucking her self, is there any help, ...
A: One of the most common causes of self plucking like this is nutritional insufficiencies, which is ...
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| OW Amazons | 10/29/2009 |
Q: I have a bonded, proven pair of OW Amazons who have gave us 2 viable clutches in the past 3 ...
A: One of the most common questions I receive, “How do I separate birds that have been sharing a cage ...
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| rescue bird | 10/28/2009 |
Q: As a reasonably experienced parrot keeper i recently aquired a rescued Amazon. His age is generally ...
A: Alas, the honeymoon is over. It's surprising to me that you haven't seen this before. I see it in ...
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| stressed out lovebird | 10/28/2009 |
Q: I usually take my lovebird in the bathroom when I take a shower because when I am home he doesn't ...
A: It sounds like some water might have gotten into his nares. You did the right thing in keeping him ...
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| Rosella Females Together? | 10/26/2009 |
Q: Can I put two young female Rosellas (One is Golden Manteled and the other one is Scarlet Chested) ...
A: The enclosure would have to be large enough for both of them to fully extend their wings at the same ...
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| galah sneezing | 10/25/2009 |
Q: I inherited a galah from my father who passed nearly 2 years back, he was outside in an aviary ...
A: This is probably a simple allergy - he might even be allergic to his own dander. On the other hand ...
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| taming a ring neck | 10/25/2009 |
Q: i have a green ring neck, he is really scared and very aggressive always attacking to bite and is ...
A: The first thing I'd suggest is providing a "sleep cage" . It doesn't have to be a big cage, just ...
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| Bathing | 10/24/2009 |
Q: We just got a 14 year old Harlequin macaw. I would like to know how often they need a bath? She is ...
A: Keeping your bird happy, healthy and clean is pretty easy. Most importantly is always make sure ...
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| moluccan behavior | 10/23/2009 |
Q: I have an umbrella cockatoo, i recently got a moluccan cockatoo, the cage didn't come with a bottom ...
A: This is normal behavior, but it should be discouraged because it could lead to egg laying. Egg ...
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| eggs | 10/23/2009 |
Q: what is considered excessive egg laying? i have a blue and gold macaw that has laid 4-6 eggs each ...
A: It's best that all egg laying be prevented. You're doing the right thing in leaving her eggs there ...
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| My sneezing,squatting blue and gold macaw | 10/22/2009 |
Q: Last wk every now and then she or he not sexed blue & gold started sneezing it isn't often but a few ...
A: First, B&G's are very prone to allergies and this is one of the highest allergen times of the year. ...
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| Green Cheeked Conure biting | 10/20/2009 |
Q: We have a Green Cheeked Conure which we bought from a pet shop he was hand raised and is ...
A: It sounds like this conure has assumed the role of dominant bird over your daughter, a very common ...
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| Parrot bathing | 10/19/2009 |
Q: My 2yo severe macaw will not take a bath. He/she grooms constantly but will not get in or play with ...
A: You can have this done yourself if you're confident enough to clip a toenail just short enough to ...
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| Parrot bathing | 10/18/2009 |
Q: My 2yo severe macaw will not take a bath. He/she grooms constantly but will not get in or play with ...
A: I know that Severe's bites can be, well, SEVERE. They are the pitbull of the bird world. I am ...
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| Gender confusion | 10/17/2009 |
Q: I am starting to wonder if my female myers parrot is actually a male. The petstore that she is a she ...
A: This so-called "bird person" has done little more than prove beyond any doubt that they are no more ...
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| Ringneck diet | 10/16/2009 |
Q: I have 2 Indian Ringneck birds aged 6 weeks. I bought them a week and a half ago. I have been ...
A: It's about time to start weaning and from what you describe, you're doing well. When it’s time to ...
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| Sick Parakeet | 10/14/2009 |
Q: I recently took my Parakeet to the Vet and really didn't get any answers for him. It would seem once ...
A: What you're seeing when you don't see your bird's symptoms consistently is a hard-wired instinct ...
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| Bourke Laid an Egg | 10/5/2009 |
Q: My first and only pet bird, a cheery sweet female Bourke, came into my life as a happy gift, but ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| Blue and Gold Macaw | 10/5/2009 |
Q: I have a baby Blue and Gold Macaw. Does it's crop get larger or smaller as it gets closer to being ...
A: As the bird gets older, the crop becomes less elastic and of less capacity. The formula should be ...
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| Bird allergy? | 10/4/2009 |
Q: We have an african grey parrot he is 8 yrs old. My husband always seems to be full of cold, it is ...
A: Just like some people are allergic to cats or dogs, allergies to birds exist too. Allergic ...
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| Fatty cysts | 10/4/2009 |
Q: I have a 14 years old pied cockatiel. About a year ago she developed a growth near her sebaceous ...
A: Uropygial Gland problems are also not uncommon as the result of vitamin A deficiency (largely seed ...
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| bite force parrot | 10/3/2009 |
Q: what's is bite force macaw parrot? merci beaucoup
A: It depends on the macaw, but for a general idea, a green wing, scarlet and others in this size range ...
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| Loss of Parrot | 10/2/2009 |
Q: We recently purchased a turquoise conure that passed away after a week of having her. We had gotten ...
A: I am truly sorry for your loss and I understand the pain of not knowing what happened or how. ...
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| love birds | 10/2/2009 |
Q: Is there a way to teach my love birds how to talk. If there is could you please tell me how? ...
A: When it comes to teaching a bird to talk, it’s important to start with a bird that actually has this ...
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| can 3 love birds live together? | 9/30/2009 |
Q: I have a male love bird living on his own. His mate was killed in a tragic accident. He has coped ...
A: The best solution to multiple birds like this is separate cages. It's not really that difficult - ...
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| Amazon-Rubbing Off Feathers | 9/29/2009 |
Q: I have a 25 y.o. Yellow-nape Amazon who is rubbing off her chest feathers. She is not plucking, but ...
A: You're not making this easy at all are you? I can understand your frustration though - 90% of these ...
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| eclectus parrot | 9/28/2009 |
Q: my eclectus parrots facees seem to be a little watery & runny. Otherwise he seems healthy bright & ...
A: Diarrhea is often actually Polyuria. True diarrhea is when the feces part of the droppings are not ...
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| Male Cockatiel breeding behaviour | 9/28/2009 |
Q: My pet cockatiel is 6 and for the past few weeks and possibly months, we have noticed a nesting ...
A: It sounds like you're doing all the right things. As tedious as it might seem, a vet visit to get ...
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| baby african grey | 9/27/2009 |
Q: i have an 18 week old african grey i have had him for five weeks. he seems to have an affectionate ...
A: What a sweet and wonderful bond you have. And how very nice of you to want to be sure he's social. ...
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| Choking ?? | 9/26/2009 |
Q: I have a Goffins Cockatoo that has been excellent. I have progressed extremely well since he has ...
A: Having Bernie in your life may make more of a difference than you imagine. This I know from first ...
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| Scared Cockatiel | 9/24/2009 |
Q: I have a cockatiel that was given to me by a pet store a few months ago (not purchased, given). The ...
A: While we can't save every bird that needs it, for the one at a time we do save, it means everything ...
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| blue/gold macaw molting | 9/24/2009 |
Q: We have a wonderful well behaved blue/gold macaw and we've had him for 2 years. A couple of days ...
A: It's as strange as it gets, but I've noticed that many B&G macaws are 'drama queens'. One ...
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| Lovebird can't fly | 9/23/2009 |
Q: She only makes the attempt occasionally now and always winds up on the floor. Though she can guide ...
A: I can't tell you how glad I am to hear she's been on predominantly pellets. This reduces her ...
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| Sun Conure keeps laying eggs | 9/22/2009 |
Q: My female Sun Conure keeps laying clusters 4-5 eggs. This eggs are not going to hatch since she is ...
A: I'm glad you asked about the vitamins. If it's in her water, it's not recommended. In fact, if ...
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| Lovebird holding wing up | 9/22/2009 |
Q: I have a 6-month old Peachface Lutino lovebird in the middle of her first molt. Today I noticed ...
A: What you're describing doesn't sound related to her food change; however, it could be the result of ...
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| Parrotlet baby not growing and still naked? | 9/21/2009 |
Q: I am very experienced with raising Avians of all sizes and species, even wild one's. But the ...
A: I appreciate your kind words - and next time someone mentions 'mother nature taking its course', ...
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| female african congo grey parrot egg laying | 9/21/2009 |
Q: I recently adopted a 10 year old grey and the vet sent blood for a DNA test which has not come back ...
A: Well, we know one thing for sure, the DNA will indicate you've got a hen (girl), so congratulations. ...
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| Parrotlet baby not growing and still naked? | 9/21/2009 |
Q: I am very experienced with raising Avians of all sizes and species, even wild one's. But the ...
A: I have to enthusiastically commend you on both your efforts and comprehensive description of what's ...
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| Hey | 9/20/2009 |
Q: Hey, From the bird food i have, its all messy and on the ground. And there are like bugs/moths ...
A: It isn't a good idea to house a 'third wheel' like this if a pair becomes a mating couple. Not ...
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| African Grey | 9/20/2009 |
Q: I have never seen my African Grey "Goofy" poop brown. I gave him some new treats yesterday but ...
A: Human companions to birds need to learn what’s normal for their bird. When the bird is healthy, ...
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| Sun Conure keeps laying eggs | 9/20/2009 |
Q: My female Sun Conure keeps laying clusters 4-5 eggs. This eggs are not going to hatch since she is ...
A: I'm sure whoever said this about her being 'happy' meant well. Perhaps you should share this info ...
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| senegal courting owner | 9/19/2009 |
Q: You responded to a question by Greg about his Senegal's behavior (holding wings low, soft chirping ...
A: Overall, general 'mating' behavior may seem similar right up until the bird uses a tool to ...
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| Seed & nut mix | 9/19/2009 |
Q: my 5 month old African grey was handfed by me, I was told not to force my bird to stop the porridge ...
A: You can try to ease her off the seeds by sprouting them just a bit before feeding. I’ll try ...
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| Bugs | 9/19/2009 |
Q: Hey, From the bird food i have, its all messy and on the ground. And there are like bugs/moths ...
A: These 'seed moths' are pretty common and while generally harmless, the webs and mold that might also ...
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| Preparing to bring my baby sun home | 9/17/2009 |
Q: I am the new owner of a baby Sun conure that is still being weaned/ handfed once a day at the pet ...
A: I wouldn't recommend the baked potato unless it's sweet potato or yams; the oatmeal is something ...
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| African Grey Parrot | 9/17/2009 |
Q: I'm adopting a 4yr old African Grey. It's previous owner passed away. I realize that this parrot ...
A: The cage would do well as a 'sleep cage' or if your bird is out most of the time; otherwise, a ...
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| African Grey | 9/17/2009 |
Q: We have an African Grey which has been with us for 5 years. He is settled and happy. We have been ...
A: They should be fine - but be careful to keep them separate. Probably the most difficult thing to do ...
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| Hand-feeding 3 month old baby Macaw (2) | 9/15/2009 |
Q: and, firstly, the picture of him on a high perch was when he flew there after arriving !, he ...
A: I can appreciate the video stressing that prolonged 'diarrhea' may be life threatening, but the ...
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| I think my bird is sick | 9/15/2009 |
Q: I noticed about two or three weeks ago that my female Eclectus' droppings were unusually dark in ...
A: Sorry it took so long, but it seems no one was in the same place at the same time The advice from ...
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| Cockatiel | 9/13/2009 |
Q: ! My name is Joanne today I became the proud owner of a one yr old hand raised cockatiel only im a ...
A: Congratulations on being a new birdy mommy! You're right that this baby might just have been ...
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| quaker parrot weight loss | 9/11/2009 |
Q: I have a 23 year old Quaker parrot, since she was an egg.I have to have her beak correctivly trimmed ...
A: You might be surprised to learn that while with people, bread can pack on the weight, but with birds ...
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| Amazon Parrot showed no signs of being so sick | 9/11/2009 |
Q: He passed away while we were away on vacation (only 10 years old). He suddenly started throwing up ...
A: From your description of the color of the droppings, the vomiting and so on, this is very liver ...
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| 15 yr old macaw | 9/11/2009 |
Q: My 15 yr old blue and gold macaw has been with me since 4 months old. I have always referred to the ...
A: First, it would be very wise to have the DNA test to determine he or she. It's not just a matter ...
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| I think my bird is sick | 9/10/2009 |
Q: I noticed about two or three weeks ago that my female Eclectus' droppings were unusually dark in ...
A: I have to admire your involvement and knowledge. I nearly used 'reject' on this because I am not ...
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| Need help | 9/10/2009 |
Q: i am in a predicament, I have a 2 year old Sun Conure parot, and my parents are staying with us, my ...
A: Oh Jean, this is certainly a tough one. I probably wouldn't sell him. That doesn't mean to keep ...
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| correcting a bad habit | 9/10/2009 |
Q: we have a Senegal parrot that we love dearly but she chews on ears and glasses how do we correct ...
A: It's not actually a bad habit of hers, it's what you feel is an undesired behavior. The difference ...
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| Halloween costume and a bird | 9/9/2009 |
Q: For Halloween this year I plan on going as a pirate so I can have my little birdie on my shoulder (a ...
A: The 'heart attack' story is a very old wives tale. What probably happened in those times before ...
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| Parrot bedtime difficulties | 9/9/2009 |
Q: I'm a new owner of an adopted 1-year-old Meyers parrot, Tunie, who has been with me two weeks. Tunie ...
A: I just love your commitment to doing this right. The first change I'd make is to his access to a ...
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| Hand-feeding 3 month old baby Macaw | 9/8/2009 |
Q: Our three month old baby Macaw arrived in our home yesterday. The breeder brought him and,with him, ...
A: OK, this type of macaw will not usually wean until 5-6 months, but given his demeanor it's ...
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| Alexandrine Parrot runny nose | 9/7/2009 |
Q: I have a 1yr old Alexandrine Parrot who appears to have a runny nose. I noticed this yesterday ...
A: If this were a macaw I'd suspect that the bird had allergies, which is relatively common in macaws ...
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| Lovebird holding wing up | 9/5/2009 |
Q: I have a 6-month old Peachface Lutino lovebird in the middle of her first molt. Today I noticed ...
A: You're right that during a major molt time of year, like now, a bird can be especially sensitive. ...
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| Cockatoo | 9/3/2009 |
Q: I have an umbrella cockatoo, Bulu (snowflake in Indonesian) who has had a problem with evacuating ...
A: This is what's called Cloacal prolapse - and the good news is that it can very often be corrected. ...
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| Cockatiel Egg First Timer | 9/3/2009 |
Q: My female cockatiel laid her first egg and I saw the signs prior that she had bigger poops and was ...
A: Good question and I'm glad you asked. Yes, these two are terribly young to be doing this and the ...
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| parrots and pregnancy | 9/1/2009 |
Q: Dr.S.August Abbot, we have a 4 year old african grey parrot. my wife and I have decided to have a ...
A: I have strong doubts that a bird caused the complications you've described. Perhaps that ...
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| African Grey Parrott | 9/1/2009 |
Q: We have a Congo African grey parrot, she is 32 yrs. old. She has been plucking her feathers for some ...
A: The short answer to your question about the wood from your trees is "maybe". If the tree is disease ...
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| loss of feathers | 8/31/2009 |
Q: I have a pearl cockatiel. Lately I have noticed feather loss from under his one wing and a few small ...
A: Good instincts Lucille - I think you're right about the nutritional aspect, but let me go over a few ...
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| Depression | 8/31/2009 |
Q: I had two male pacific parrotlets. They were housed in seperate cages but were let out together and ...
A: As a matter of fact, yes, I've heard of this happening quite a bit. In a way, it IS related to your ...
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| Cockatiel Skin Problem | 8/30/2009 |
Q: I've had a Latino Cockatiel for four years now and for about the past two years he's been getting ...
A: When a self-plucking psittacine has cause enough damage to result in what’s referred to as ‘wing web ...
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| Cockateil | 8/30/2009 |
Q: A few days ago i went to petsmart (petstore) to buy a cockatiel but the workers told us that their ...
A: Nonsense! Go get the cockatiel! You stand a chance of contracting some diseases or infections from ...
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| Parrots & Flea Control Dogs & Cats | 8/29/2009 |
Q: I have an Eclectus parrot, 2 dogs and 5 cats in the house. I currently use Frontline Plus on the ...
A: Excellent question! If you really want to use something on the carpets just get a box of Borax in ...
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| stunted BNG | 8/28/2009 |
Q: My baby BNG is stunted..he weighs only 136 grams at 7 weeks old.We have taken him to 2 different ...
A: Well at least you know which vets to avoid at all costs! Have you had a DNA/genetic profile done ...
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| Conure Biting | 8/27/2009 |
Q: I have a three year old Green Cheek Conure that I got a couple of weeks ago. For the first week he ...
A: What seems like sudden acts of aggression by many birds isn’t necessarily unusual and you can ...
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| sulphur crested cockatoo | 8/27/2009 |
Q: his beak has began to grow really fast for some reason. i took him to the vet and got his beak ...
A: When a bird’s beak begins overgrowing after years of appearing normal, it’s usually a nutritional ...
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| parrots | 8/26/2009 |
Q: iv just got a 18mth old not tame hahn,s macaw can i put it with a amazon not yet met
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. Often the ...
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| Keeping African Greys Together | 8/25/2009 |
Q: I have just bought two African grey parrots who are four months old and are siblings. There is one ...
A: This is a very good question and you have some excellent insights. I agree, birds should not, for ...
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| parrotlet | 8/25/2009 |
Q: I was recently given a bird that I have identified on your site as a male parrotlet. He is so much ...
A: Epsom salt for a bird - no. Just plain 'no', ok? When it comes to everything else you're doing ...
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| My Parakeet | 8/25/2009 |
Q: I have a female that my mom had and she did have male but the male pasted away a year ago. She has ...
A: I'm afraid these eggs are not going to hatch. She would have to had mating contact with a male in ...
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| kiwi my pet quaker | 8/25/2009 |
Q: i had been giving kiwi his bath and noticed that on the top of his head he had some hard almost pin ...
A: You've described this perfectly, "pin feathers" is what they're called. These are hard, plastic ...
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| New scarlet-chested parakeet | 8/24/2009 |
Q: I just had a little scarlet-chested parakeet (from what I have seen in photos I think this is what ...
A: Great question! Yes, a cage of its own in the company of your other birds is ideal and no, it ...
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| Blind African Grey | 8/24/2009 |
Q: I have a blind African Grey whom is 25yrs old and NOT hand tame. I am interested on ideas of hand ...
A: Do you know what caused the blindness? Does he have any sight whatsoever? How long have you had ...
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| grunting blue & gold macaw | 8/23/2009 |
Q: My husband and I have a female blue and gold macaw who is almost 10 years old. About 6 months ago ...
A: Let me start by saying it's never a bad idea to see your vet for a hands on exam and good check up. ...
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| My New Lovebird | 8/23/2009 |
Q: Well my first lovebird i guess was sick he had pink stuff coming out of his nostrils and was ...
A: You're right, it sounds like a very sick lovebird that you lost; however, it might have also been ...
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| cross breeding | 8/22/2009 |
Q: i have an female african grey parrot i want to make a cross breeding with cockatoo is it possible if ...
A: This sounds like a very interesting combination, but unfortunately they cannot cross breed. Two ...
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| shredded paper | 8/22/2009 |
Q: i have just aquired a baby quaker and was wondering if i shread paper in the bottom of the cage ...
A: Layers of flat paper is really best until the baby can perch. Then, start with a perch low and ...
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| putting a macaw outside | 8/22/2009 |
Q: I have a macaw that is 4 years old and he was a rescue bird I have had him for a year and he is ...
A: What kind of macaw? When you respond, make the question "private" and tell me where in Texas you ...
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| Cockatoo | 8/21/2009 |
Q: This may sound strange but can Cockatoo's get hemorrhoids? I noticed something the other night in ...
A: Perfect description. Cloacal prolapse is when the inside of the bird pushes out. In some cases ...
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| alexandrine female parrot | 8/20/2009 |
Q: we purchased an alexandrine parrot about 6 months ago.(the seller said she was 1year old at this ...
A: Linda, you really love your birds and you're doing a great job at keeping them in separate cages ...
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| sick Blue Front Amazon | 8/20/2009 |
Q: My blue front amazon parrot was fine in the morning. When I got home from work she was trying to ...
A: Yes, you need to stop letting the petting go below the shoulder or upper back area. You can still ...
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| Meyers parrot | 8/19/2009 |
Q: I am adopting a 1-year-old Meyers parrot from his/her first owner, who says she is too busy with ...
A: I have all new rescues that I take in checked within two weeks. Of course I have a vet that makes ...
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| sick Blue Front Amazon | 8/19/2009 |
Q: My blue front amazon parrot was fine in the morning. When I got home from work she was trying to ...
A: The reason it's important to know a bird's sex is because females are always going to be prone to ...
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| Meyers parrot | 8/19/2009 |
Q: I am adopting a 1-year-old Meyers parrot from his/her first owner, who says she is too busy with ...
A: What a wonderful owner you already are! Preparation like this speaks volumes about you. When we ...
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| macaw and feather loss | 8/19/2009 |
Q: I have a 6 year old blue and gold macaw, I have just recently noticed more feather loss from his ...
A: At this time of year here in the U.S. birds are going through what is called a "major molt". The ...
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| Baby Cockatoo | 8/18/2009 |
Q: My boyfriend and I have a 4 month old baby cockatoo who, we believe, is regurgitating food. She has ...
A: When it comes to a larger, longer lived psittacine like this - regular vet visits are absolutely ...
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| Parrots beak | 8/16/2009 |
Q: My parrots beak has grown at least half an inch and i was wondering if that reflects on his diet. if ...
A: Very good question When a bird’s beak begins overgrowing after years of appearing normal, it’s ...
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| Sun conure agression | 8/16/2009 |
Q: In the last month, 'he' has become aggressive with our other bird, a Timneh Grey. The Timneh is not ...
A: What seems like sudden acts of aggression by many birds isn’t necessarily unusual and you can ...
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| regurgiting food on my hand | 8/15/2009 |
Q: I adopted an Alexandrian in May of this year. I was told by the pet store the bird was 7 mos to a ...
A: It's so difficult to know if pet stores are being honest. All we ever have to go on is their ...
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| how do i make my indian ringneck stop being scared of me and gain trust with him | 8/15/2009 |
Q: okay i bought my indian ringneck from my friend about 3-4 months ago with a eastern rosella and they ...
A: Let's make a couple of modifications for a while ok? 1st, wing trimming (not clipping, not ...
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| Catching a wild one. | 8/15/2009 |
Q: About 2 weeks ago my mom and her friend caught a love bird. I believe it is very young because the ...
A: When it comes to indoor cages though, other than with canaries, finches and other ‘straight beaked’ ...
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| Biting lovebird | 8/14/2009 |
Q: I got my baby lovebird,about 4 months old, about a week ago. He didn't bite when I first got him. ...
A: What you're describing isn't at all unusual. There's often a 'honeymoon' period when a bird first ...
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| Can I put a baby Africal Gray with my 22 year old super friendly Blue fronted Amazon? | 8/14/2009 |
Q: I am getting a baby African Gray sent to me next Thursday, and have a 22 year old Blue Fronted ...
A: Great question. When it comes to psittacines (parrots) like this, I really wouldn't share a cage. ...
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| African Gray Mating | 8/13/2009 |
Q: My question is this: my gray is 13 years of age and is a hand fed bird. He's showing signs of ...
A: How nice of you to be so understanding of your boy. While it sounds like a good idea, it can ...
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| I think my quaker is sick :( | 8/12/2009 |
Q: Abbott, I have 2 quaker parrots that are about 2 years old. A couple months ago one of them started ...
A: What you're describing is more along the lines of ringworm infection, a type of fungus rather than ...
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| Parakeet taming | 8/12/2009 |
Q: I have a parakeet about one year old and don't know how to tame it. I've read so much on the ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| baby birds | 8/12/2009 |
Q: do birds have colostrum like mammals do in their first feedings?
A: Depends on what type of bird. Pigeons/doves have what's called "crop milk" for their newly hatched ...
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| Parrot eyesight | 8/12/2009 |
Q: I'm looking at my green wing mackaw right now and his eyes look so similar to ours. Do parrots see ...
A: They see more than we can even imagine. They see waves of light that are invisible to the human ...
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| 8 month old alexandrine | 8/11/2009 |
Q: I bought him one week ago and I am a bit concerned that he will be too old to teach. I have 2 young ...
A: Just like our children take years to learn to talk - and we all continue to learn new words and ...
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| Amazon Grey Parrot | 8/11/2009 |
Q: We had a 9 year old amazon grey male parrot given to us with nothing really told to us about him ...
A: Deana, for a better guide complete with pics and info you haven't even asked about yet, check this ...
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| allergies | 8/9/2009 |
Q: my sister has a white crested parrot and it`s seem as if my mom has alergy symptoms when she is near ...
A: Yes, it's very possible for your mom to be allergic. Allergic alveolitis is a problem bird ...
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| ? | 8/9/2009 |
Q: My alexandrine parrots have lay one egg, she may of lay more by now i'm not sure. How long are the ...
A: Approximately 28 days for incubation It's not true that a bird will kill babies or destroy eggs ...
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| word pronunciation & bird behavior | 8/9/2009 |
Q: Greetings: I have looked everywhere with no luck, could you please give me the correct ...
A: Say it out loud: Pwah SEF uhl us What you're describing with your severe is absolutely common ...
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| tail feathers being lost | 8/8/2009 |
Q: .. i have an eclectus ( female ) and two sun conours.. The oldest sun conour ( ruby) 's tail ...
A: At this time of year many birds are moulting. Birds going through a molting season may look ...
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| cockateil eggs and care taking | 8/8/2009 |
Q: i just got 2 cockateils two weeks ago and she laid one egg last week but she is trying to eat it, id ...
A: Before you undertake breeding any bird for the first time, let me try to play devil’s advocate with ...
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| Green Cheek introduced to my old sun conure... | 8/7/2009 |
Q: I just got a Green Cheek Conure, he's only 8 months old. I have a 2 year old sun conure which I have ...
A: You seem to be doing all the right things. Keep following your own instincts. A new bird needs ...
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| food | 8/7/2009 |
Q: What foods are not good to feed my sun conure. A friend of mine gave me the bird after i baby sat ...
A: There's a whole page that addresses all of this and has pics too ...
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| parrots phantom pregnancy | 8/6/2009 |
Q: i am not sure what i should be doing if anything. the bird seems fine in herself but is spending a ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| african greys | 8/5/2009 |
Q: ok so my grandparents found a wild african grey in there yard and gave it to me he is banded and was ...
A: If he's banded he's not really 'wild', chances are he's lost. I would expect that you've done ...
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| moving my indian ringnecks while on holiday | 8/5/2009 |
Q: i am going away for a week and was thinking of moving my 2 Indian ringnecks to my father in laws for ...
A: Give your father-in-law a description of their routine, make sure they have their own familiar food ...
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| pet parrot | 8/5/2009 |
Q: till he cannot able to eat anything with holding in his hand.i hand feed him twice a day.he likes ...
A: This is just a matter of being creative and persistent. I have a lot of ideas, tips and some fun ...
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| Quil pulling | 8/3/2009 |
Q: Greetings, I know grays are notorious for feather chewing, however, my 10 year old gray has now ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Weaning hand reared Macaw | 8/2/2009 |
Q: We got our Macaw at the age of 14 weeks and have had her for 2 weeks. We were told to feed her once ...
A: Today one of my clients lost their bird because they delayed getting help for 7 days. Don't take ...
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| My cockatiel is making a static sound | 8/2/2009 |
Q: we have been trying to teach the bid some works and whistling to him. Every once in a while we can ...
A: It's a pretty common attention getting sound left over from when he was a baby. If your bird is ...
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| abnormal droppings | 8/1/2009 |
Q: My African Grey is 5 years old and is acting completely normal except that today I noticed that his ...
A: When the bird is healthy, acting fine and eating a well balanced diet, there’s a general look to the ...
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| bonding blue and gold macaws | 8/1/2009 |
Q: I currently have a 2 1/2 yr old male blue and gold macaw who i have had for a year. He is a very ...
A: When a new bird is brought into an established flock environment, even if it’s just you and one ...
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| Bird training | 8/1/2009 |
Q: I got a cockatiel a week or so a go. I know he is young and i am pretty sure he is male. The pet ...
A: Birds need to make the decision to be 'cuddled' on their own. They aren't thrilled to have this ...
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| Paper!? | 7/31/2009 |
Q: Abbott I have a pet cockatiel about 4 years old. Whenever he is around paper, like a magazine or ...
A: When it comes to cockatiels it's not at all unusual to find them more interested in shredding ...
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| Can birds get dog fleas...? | 7/30/2009 |
Q: , My partner and I have 2 Chihuahua's (Draco and Luscius), and a Pionus Parrot (Kiri). We recently ...
A: The "possibility" exists that a flea might find an opportunity to take a bite of a parrot, but the ...
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| Question about my Cockatiel | 7/30/2009 |
Q: I have a cockatiel named "Chippy" she is 9 years old. I got her when she was really young and ...
A: A few things went in the wrong direction with Chippy - and we can work on setting things back on ...
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| parakeets. | 7/29/2009 |
Q: i have 3 parakeets. i've asked Google million of times, how can i build the trust bond with my ...
A: I approach our new additions (usually abused birds entering rescue/rehab) an hour or so after ...
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| Growth on Neck | 7/29/2009 |
Q: I have an Orange Winged Amazon. He is 23 years old. It appears the he has a growth of some kind... ...
A: It sounds like you're seeing a lipoma Lipomas are usually benign growths that can appear ...
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| bowel movement | 7/28/2009 |
Q: my cockatoo has watery poop with a little light brown in it
A: Diarrhea is often actually Polyuria. True diarrhea is when the feces part of the droppings are not ...
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| indian ring neck biting | 7/27/2009 |
Q: we have an indian ring neck that is very attached to my wife and squawks every time she leaves the ...
A: Let me go over a few things for you to consider and help you better match up some behaviors with ...
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| parakeet problems | 7/26/2009 |
Q: I have two parakeets, one young white & blue female and the other is a yellow male. I bought the ...
A: This might be easier than you think I’m a big advocate of separate cages for multiple birds with ...
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| Beak shedding | 7/26/2009 |
Q: My blue and Gold Macaw seems to be shedding her beak. Is this normal?
A: Most birds will maintain the shape and health of their beaks by rubbing them on appropriate ...
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| Aggressive to other bird | 7/25/2009 |
Q: I have two male parrotlets that stay in separate cages. When we are home they come out and are very ...
A: You've been doing all the right things in keeping these birds in separate cages. The problem is ...
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| kakariki | 7/25/2009 |
Q: l recently purchased a 2yr old male and have noticed he has a bald ring around one of his eyes, have ...
A: I hit the wrong button - sorry There are several kinds of mites (and lice) that may infect our ...
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| Going on holiday | 7/24/2009 |
Q: I am going on holiday for a week, and have arranged for a relative to come and change his water, ...
A: I would make sure someone comes by twice a day - and that he has something interesting going on for ...
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| companion for a cockatiel | 7/22/2009 |
Q: I have a three and a half month old male cockatiel. I really want to get him another bird (that is ...
A: I'm happy to follow up as much as you'd like. I appreciate someone trying to do the right things ...
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| Am I being scammed by a vet? | 7/22/2009 |
Q: I have 2 conure parrots, (Jenday and Sun) Big Boid, my girl, is 11 years old, and Bindi Sue, my boy, ...
A: I cannot comment on the qualifications of this vet ok? What I can say is that I've "NEVER" heard of ...
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| companion for a cockatiel | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I have a three and a half month old male cockatiel. I really want to get him another bird (that is ...
A: I can appreciate that you don't want to allow them to share a cage. That's a very good decision ...
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| Quacker Parrots | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I baught my Quacker Parrot almost 4 years ago and was told that it was a male and it was done by ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| my 2 galahs :) | 7/20/2009 |
Q: ) i bought 5 days ago two galahs, a female and male :) the previous owner said that they are only 1 ...
A: When we bring a bird into our homes, no matter how old they are or what conditions they came from, ...
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| Parrot dieseses | 7/20/2009 |
Q: I was the one that asked you about the blue macaw. I cleaned his cage today because I just got him ...
A: OK, the first step here really should be a vet visit to rule out infection or disease, BUT you also ...
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| Macaw sitting, shredding on cage floor | 7/19/2009 |
Q: About two weeks ago my 13-year-old Blue & Gold female began sitting in the bottom of her cage, tail ...
A: She's being 'broody' - nesting - preparing to lay eggs and it's not a good thing. Egg laying is ...
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| Keeping a Parrotlet | 7/18/2009 |
Q: My wife and I are planning to buy a parrotlet as a present for someone. I would like to know if it ...
A: Psittacines (parrotlets and all other 'hook-billed' birds) not only become cage bound, but can ...
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| Senegal Plucks Feathers During Winter Only | 7/18/2009 |
Q: We have owned a Senegal parrot for eight years that is truly a member of our family. This is not ...
A: We often have to remind ourselves to think Ockham's Razor. This is the principle proposed by ...
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| Parrot dieseses | 7/17/2009 |
Q: I was the one that asked you about the blue macaw. I cleaned his cage today because I just got him ...
A: Most feather problems, including losses, can be traced to nutritional issues. When feather loss ...
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| Parrotlets fighting | 7/17/2009 |
Q: We have 2 male parrotlets that we bought from a breeder 2 yrs ago that assured us would be fine ...
A: I don’t think hook bills (parrots) should share cages. That's the simple and direct answer. When ...
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| Indian Ringneck Behavior | 7/16/2009 |
Q: I have an Indian Ringneck, Lutino male. I adopted him and two conures all together. The three birds ...
A: When it comes to many birds, especially parrots, communicating a wealth of information to each other ...
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| blue mccaw | 7/16/2009 |
Q: I was given a blue mccaw but I am concern because she does not have feathers at all in her chest. ...
A: This is one of the most commonly self-plucked areas; fortunately, it's not around the neck or top ...
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| need help with my orange winged amazon.. | 7/15/2009 |
Q: I bought an orange winged amazon like 2 months ago and im having some problems with him.He is 1 year ...
A: He needs a lot of intellectual challenges and input or you're sure to see behavioral issues, health ...
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| need help with my orange winged amazon.. | 7/14/2009 |
Q: I bought an orange winged amazon like 2 months ago and im having some problems with him.He is 1 year ...
A: Don't give up just yet. Two months is still relatively early. Give me an idea of what a normal ...
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| Sun Conure Not Wanting Veggies | 7/13/2009 |
Q: I have a 2 1/2month sun conure,I just got him from a breeder two days ago. The Breeder gave him a ...
A: Most children, if they had their way, would have nothing but ice cream and candy, fast food junk and ...
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| Sun conure bonded to cage | 7/13/2009 |
Q: I recently adopted a one year old sun conure, and he is displaying behavior that I am not sure how ...
A: First, you need to establish trust - and consistency will help do that. Open the door and offer ...
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| quaker parrot | 7/13/2009 |
Q: My quaker is 1 year old and has a rough and layered looking beak. Is there a special color and or ...
A: From what you're describing this is a normal molt - why not take a look here and see if it looks ...
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| Cockatiel seizures | 7/12/2009 |
Q: I took my cockatiel to the vet after he started having seizures. He had blood tests and hehad low ...
A: Yes, yu can offer your 'tiel a regular spoon of cottage cheese, yogurt or even a Tums (I'd limit it ...
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| 4 month old eclectus female poor eater | 7/12/2009 |
Q: I would like to know what is best food to feed. Currently, I am feeding zupreem,roudy bush, ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. it ...
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| eye swollen shut and puffy | 7/11/2009 |
Q: this is an interesting site. One of our white doves has an eye swollen shut and pinkish in color the ...
A: Eye redness, swelling, discharge are on the list of signs of illness in our companion birds (look ...
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| Bird Behavior | 7/11/2009 |
Q: Dr. Abbott, What type of bird could I care for in my one room studio apartment that wouldn't ...
A: One of my favorite first birds is a cockatiel, but they are anything but quiet. Conures can be ...
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| Budgie - Outlasted 2 partners | 7/9/2009 |
Q: I have had my blue budgie for almost 2 years. After the first year, I found her friend dead on the ...
A: I can appreciate how much you love this bird. You're right to not go ahead with an addition - but ...
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| adopted grey...won't step up...biting..afraid of hands | 7/9/2009 |
Q: I just adopted a congo african grey 4 years old. I can tell he is sweet and wants companionship but ...
A: Be forewarned - people calling themselves bird “behavioralists” (or “behaviorists”) must also be ...
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| introducing a new bird | 6/28/2009 |
Q: I've had a Senegal Parrot for almost 2 years and he's really part of my family. and recently, I've ...
A: When a new bird is brought into an established flock environment, even if it’s just you and one ...
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| Talking Parrots | 6/27/2009 |
Q: Which is the most intelligent parrots species, which can talk & understand what it is speaking & it ...
A: My specialty is macaws - and I'm afraid you'll be terribly disappointed in their speaking ability. ...
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| Polly makes me laugh. | 6/27/2009 |
Q: I just want to give you an update on Polly who is talking away right now on my shoulder. She says ...
A: It's so nice to learn that you have Polly in honor of your dear Charlie and such a commemorative to ...
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| rosella and eclectus parrots | 6/24/2009 |
Q: I have had a female eclectus for over a year, she is very friendly and sociable, however i have just ...
A: I don’t think hook bills (parrots) should share cages. The top reasons for this being that ...
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| feather picking | 6/24/2009 |
Q: I don't see a special category for macaws, so I hope you can help me. My severe mini, Morgan, ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Indian Ringneck Parakeet Feather Loss | 6/22/2009 |
Q: I have had my pet Indian Ringneck Parakeet for about four or five years now. I was very close with ...
A: Let's try a few little modifications in your schedule ok? It might even be easier on you. ...
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| Sitting on perch | 6/21/2009 |
Q: I recently inherited a 2 1/2 year old goffin cockatoo, she is the friendliest of birds. The problem ...
A: Keep putting her back. Be silent about it, other than perhaps a firm "no" or "not yet" - you don't ...
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| Curious !!!!!! | 6/21/2009 |
Q: My question is that I was wandering if it would still be harmfull to my cockateils if I put bay ...
A: I wish I could. And there are going to be a HUGE number of websites, magazine articles and friends ...
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| Curious !!!!!! | 6/21/2009 |
Q: My question is that I was wandering if it would still be harmfull to my cockateils if I put bay ...
A: Bay leaves are fine - so is parsley, mint and other greens. If you're trying to use Bay leaves to ...
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| african grey | 6/20/2009 |
Q: I have a 2yr. old African Grey and he is awesome and we all love him.I just have one question.He is ...
A: Would it help to learn that you're not the only one with a bird like this? Sort of like that ...
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| Conure biting | 6/19/2009 |
Q: We adopted a 7yr old Sun Conure last year. He's quite taken with me but was still being good with ...
A: Well, lesson learned right? I can't imagine it being easier on any owner of a home that's been ...
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| lovebirds | 6/18/2009 |
Q: August, I have a pair of lovebirds-male and female housed in same cage. They are mating and she is ...
A: When a bird lays she’s got a very increased risk for egg binding or Dystocia, both potentially life ...
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| Diet | 6/18/2009 |
Q: I have a pacific parrotlet that only eats (maintenance Roudybush)so, the avian told me give her this ...
A: Roudybush is an excellent, complete pelleted diet - you are right, no further vitamins should be ...
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| RINGNECK PARROT | 6/18/2009 |
Q: My parrot started vomitting so i took it immediatley to the vet. I just want to know is he going to ...
A: Brazil nuts, cashews, almonds are good choices. Be sure they are NOT raw, but roasted to help be ...
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| Yellow Head Amazon is making strange sounds | 6/18/2009 |
Q: Our Parrot, Shrek has started sitting in his/her food dish on and off maybe a couple times a day ...
A: Birds don’t actually go into a ‘heat’, but they sure do engage in some similar behaviors once ...
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| Indian Parrot | 6/17/2009 |
Q: i have a few more questions to ask. 1) My Indian Parrot sneezes almost 10 times a day. Is it normal? ...
A: Another possibility is infection of the air sacs (air sacculitis). Symptoms for this includes ...
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| Taking care of baby Indian Parakeet | 6/17/2009 |
Q: I wanted to know if i humans can be at a risk of getting any infection from birds. I own an Indian ...
A: Your bird stands more of a chance for infection from you than you do from the bird. And what's ...
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| African Grey Congo | 6/17/2009 |
Q: I have nearly 9 month old african grey congo his beak has grown and he has a layer that is not even ...
A: Yes, beaks "molt", but I'm not sure if that's what you're seeing. Take a look here to see a pic of ...
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| How can I get my bird to like me | 6/16/2009 |
Q: I just got a cockateil bird from a friend 3 days a go. I have been holding it alot since I've had ...
A: Taking your time and letting the bird learn you, adjust to their surroundings and ease into sharing ...
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| peach face | 6/15/2009 |
Q: i read a question that Chris had submitted and the peach face was laying eggs a lot then i went to ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course ...
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| Pinching Sun Conure | 6/15/2009 |
Q: My sun conure, Spot, is 3 months old and over the past week has started pinching. He spends a good ...
A: In order to teach them that it’s not acceptable for us to be pinched or nipped at, when Spot goes ...
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| food choice | 6/13/2009 |
Q: Is this (ahttp://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=5059+5911+5976&pcatid=5976) ...
A: It wouldn't be the best. We should actually avoid sunflower seeds completely since they are high ...
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| New birds??? | 6/13/2009 |
Q: So tomorrow I'm getting 2 sun conures And I have 2 questions 1. If they are friendly and hand ...
A: Once birds pair up and begin sexual maturity, then mating, they become far less friendly to their ...
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| Consquenses of feedin a all seed diet | 6/13/2009 |
Q: what are the consquences of feeding a bird on a all sed diet (cockateil) ANSWER: Fatty liver ...
A: That part of your question must have somehow gotten dropped - it's not there. Egg binding is ...
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| Consquenses of feedin a all seed diet | 6/13/2009 |
Q: what are the consquences of feeding a bird on a all sed diet (cockateil)
A: Fatty liver disease is something that is often seen in a bird on a seed only or predominantly seed ...
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| RINGNECK PARROT - CROP INFECTION | 6/12/2009 |
Q: My parrot started vomitting so i took it immediatley to the vet. I just want to know is he going to ...
A: A head bobbing motion with delivery of a glob of food is regurgitation rather than vomiting, which ...
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| my bird | 6/11/2009 |
Q: Why does he pull his feathers out? Thr people i got him from told me he has been doing it for 13 ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| African Grey | 6/11/2009 |
Q: I have an8 yr old Grey purchased a week ago. The seller said the bird cant fly. However, it flies ...
A: You're doing a very good job and feeding quite well so keep it up. Being consistent might change ...
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| RINGNECK PARROT - CROP INFECTION | 6/11/2009 |
Q: My parrot started vomitting so i took it immediatley to the vet. I just want to know is he going to ...
A: Your question just got to me - tell me more about what you're seeing when he vomits. Is this a ...
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| why is jade acting like this... | 6/9/2009 |
Q: last christmas, my mom adopted a cockatoo for me from a family who couldn't keep him/her any more. i ...
A: You're doing a very good job with the fresh foods, but it's very important to get this bird off the ...
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| Indian Ringneck screeching | 6/9/2009 |
Q: I've recently been given a youngish Indian Ringneck that was found in a friend's garden. He (we ...
A: You're on the right track with ignoring him. The worst thing you can do to a bird is deny them ...
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| My parrot looks like its sick | 6/9/2009 |
Q: My parrot looks like its sick. Its feathers from its leg are falling off. It has no feathers covered ...
A: By the time a bird is noticeably ill, chances are that the problem has been brewing for some ...
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| Birds with the lowest dander | 6/9/2009 |
Q: Just wondering what the list would be of birds with the lowest dander? I have searched the internet ...
A: Very low or 'no' dander birds that I deal with in my rescue and consults are 1. Toucans. They ...
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| frightened cockatoo | 6/8/2009 |
Q: ollie is a 2 year old sulphur cockatoo we had him for a few months then we had to leave the state ...
A: This very smart bird is confused and unsure about who to trust or what to believe in now. It ...
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| cockatiel seizures | 6/7/2009 |
Q: My cockatiel has had a couple of seizures in the past couple of months. This isn't everyday, but I ...
A: You could expose your bird to full spectrum yourself. Either via sunlight through an unfiltered ...
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| Zinc | 6/7/2009 |
Q: How big a problem is zinc? How can you tell if bird toys contain zinc? Is it something bird owners ...
A: I would have to believe that minor, one time only exposures - depending on the form of ingestion, ...
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| cockatiel seizures | 6/7/2009 |
Q: My cockatiel has had a couple of seizures in the past couple of months. This isn't everyday, but I ...
A: There are "converting" suggestions at this link www.4AnimalCare.org (look at the bird tab) - it's ...
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| Zinc | 6/7/2009 |
Q: How big a problem is zinc? How can you tell if bird toys contain zinc? Is it something bird owners ...
A: Zinc Toxicity (also, lead, iron and copper are not good for birds) ...
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| cockatiel seizures | 6/7/2009 |
Q: My cockatiel has had a couple of seizures in the past couple of months. This isn't everyday, but I ...
A: Moulting wouldn't contribute to seizures, but whatever is causing the seizures might contribute to ...
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| sick cockateils | 6/6/2009 |
Q: I have two cockatiels. One was a gift (from a pet shop) was supposed to be a male turned out to be a ...
A: I'm sorry you're going through such a difficult time. You're doing a very good job with their care ...
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| Menstrual cycle | 6/6/2009 |
Q: I have a green cheek conure and i would just like to know if they suffer from menstrual cycles just ...
A: No, avians do not have menstrual cycles. If there's ever a show of blood from their vent it ...
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| ALEXANDRIAN PARROT | 6/6/2009 |
Q: I have an Alexandrian Parrot, and so does my sister, and I am minding her bird at the moment and it ...
A: Getting screaming under control isn't as difficult as you might imagine. What we need to address is ...
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| Eclectus Diet | 6/6/2009 |
Q: I am having a really hard time getting a clear answer on what my male eclectus parrot's diet should ...
A: Pellets should make up more of the diet than seeds and fresh foods are essential. The one ...
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| Toxic food/plants | 6/5/2009 |
Q: , Dr. Abbott: I have the pleasure of owning a 2yo Severe Macaw named Adagio.My question to you is, ...
A: You caught me online ;) OK, when it comes to safe woods for the cage or environment, fruit trees ...
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| Toxic food/plants | 6/5/2009 |
Q: , Dr. Abbott: I have the pleasure of owning a 2yo Severe Macaw named Adagio.My question to you is, ...
A: Chaste tree is similar to lilac. Lilac for use for branches/perches is considered safe The ...
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| hand feeding and weaning amazon babies | 6/5/2009 |
Q: i just recently took 2 amazon babies. 1 double yellow head and a yellow nape amazon. the lady who ...
A: You can try offering them pellets soaked in all natural, organic apple juice or plain warm water ...
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| my African gray | 6/5/2009 |
Q: She is not here noisy self ,she is just sitting with here hard under here wing .when ,I talk to her ...
A: By the time a bird is noticeably ill, chances are that the problem has been brewing for some time. ...
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| Sick African Grey | 6/4/2009 |
Q: i have an African Grey 15 months old and lately he's looking very bad.I've notice that his left foot ...
A: Stop the antibiotic and throw it away - it's absolutely useless and can be doing more harm than good ...
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| African Grey-Timneh death | 6/4/2009 |
Q: My groomer towel my AGT that was eight years old. He had groomed her many times. I hold, he does. ...
A: I'm so sincerely sorry for your loss and I don't blame you for wanting more answers than doubt. ...
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| My new Sun Conure | 6/3/2009 |
Q: I adopted a 5-6 yr old Sun Conure named Dutchie. I was told he neede some socialization that the ...
A: It is not unusual to find a newly rehomed bird acting as nice as can be for the first few days, ...
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| Alexandrine Parrot | 6/3/2009 |
Q: This is Hiten here. I had got 2 baby parrots from a person who had not kept them in a good ...
A: Here is a very good resource to help identify your birds' sex, but in some cases only a DNA ...
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| Lovebird's Foot/Toes Not Opening | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I have a baby lovebird that is just over 8 weeks old (by about a day) and it's one foot hasn't ...
A: As a matter of fact, one of my permanent residents is a macaw that hatched this way with both feet. ...
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| Alexandrian parrot talks when gets angry | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I have recenty got a Alexandrian green ring neck long tailed parrot. The shop keeper has cliped his ...
A: What a beautiful photo - this is a very lucky bird. Even though it might seem like he's angry, ...
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| screaming blue, gold Mc caw | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I recently got a blue gold mccaw and she screams. I put her in the front room where she will get ...
A: When your bird screams and you react, even if you're red in the face, yelling and flailing your arms ...
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| lesser sulpher cockatoo afraid of me | 6/1/2009 |
Q: I tried to clip the one feather of my cockatoo, and now she if afraid of me. I was her favorite in ...
A: Because you care enough to even notice this, it shouldn't be too difficult to fix Start as if ...
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| Hormonal U2 | 5/31/2009 |
Q: I have an 8 month pregnant young girl staying with me. My 14 year old female U2 has began attacking ...
A: This is a common question. Chances are the 'too is reacting more to the change in routine, ...
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| lovebird | 5/31/2009 |
Q: I have a single lovebird and in his cage i recently got him a fuzzy bed to sleep in, and for a while ...
A: It's more likely he LOVES the hut so much that it's triggering mating behavior. He's regurgitating ...
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| bitting bird | 5/30/2009 |
Q: I have 1 1/2 year old Alexanderine Parrot who is still biting us. I have 2 children and aged 7 and 4 ...
A: Dealing with a bitey bird who is also aggressive isn't one of the easiest things to live with. ...
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| Aggressive hen 'tiel | 5/29/2009 |
Q: I have a 6 year old female cockatiel and a 1 year old female cockatiel They share a cage and have ...
A: That sure does explain the territorial behavior doesn't it? OK, leave the egg with her until she ...
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| Lovebirds | 5/28/2009 |
Q: Our lovebird is almost 2 years old.Lately he/she has been getting into the habit of humping our ...
A: What you're describing is mating behavior Males tend to rub forward against a perch or object, ...
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| Aggressive hen 'tiel | 5/27/2009 |
Q: I have a 6 year old female cockatiel and a 1 year old female cockatiel They share a cage and have ...
A: You've just described rather typical territorial behavior. Willow has become sexually mature and ...
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| my african grey ate aluminum | 5/26/2009 |
Q: During our recent traveling, our African grey ate portions of the aluminum tray we were using to put ...
A: Depending on when the bird ate it, a relatively simple procedure might be used to remove the ...
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| Sore eye of African Grey | 5/26/2009 |
Q: I have recently adopted a timhen african grey. He had been on a seed-only diet for most of his life ...
A: The very first thing every bird that comes to me has done is a DNA profile. To screen for several ...
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| respiratory disease | 5/26/2009 |
Q: im a vet in nairobi,kenya.i recently attended to a case where the patient was an african grey ...
A: Did you determine the underlying cause (viral, bacterial, fungal)? How long was the bird ...
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| My parakeet and her chewing habits. | 5/26/2009 |
Q: I have a 1 year old parakeet named Tessa. I am her favorite person in the family. She seems to be ...
A: Tessa is doing what she's programmed to do. All psittacines (parrots) chew. It not only keeps ...
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| male macaw? | 5/24/2009 |
Q: We have a military/ blue and gold macaw that was supposed to be a 12 year old male that laid three ...
A: Good eye! Yes, Simon is a Catalina macaw, the result of a blue & gold with a scarlet. It's ...
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| An update on Polly. | 5/23/2009 |
Q: I'm sorry for going quiet on you. I was busy and away on a college trip to Blackpool but I am back ...
A: That 'somebody at college' needs more than book studies if they're going to make it in this world. ...
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| senegal parrot | 5/23/2009 |
Q: i have just bought a senegal parrot from a pet shop. i don't know where to put him in a room. i was ...
A: Unfortunately many pet shops should keep their opinions about bird care to themselves. Not all ...
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| Bourke's and finches | 5/22/2009 |
Q: I have recently brought home a pretty little bourke's parakeet. She shared her cage with her sister ...
A: If you continue interacting with her the way you are, you won't need to add to her company as you'll ...
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| goffin too | 5/22/2009 |
Q: MY GOFFIN HAS BEEN WITH ME FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS NOW AND SHE HAS BEEN GETTING SWEETER BY THE DAY.... ...
A: Relax - chances are that this is normal as part of the big molt happening right now. Birds, in ...
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| cockatiel band leg | 5/22/2009 |
Q: we've just recently acquired a cockatiel, of whom the owner claimed it to be the age of 2 and a ...
A: No, the bands are a mystery to many people, including other breeders, but chances are pretty good ...
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| disease from bird | 5/21/2009 |
Q: My friend allows her bird to eat,drink and sleep with her.Also she has the bird on her shoulder all ...
A: The bird is more at risk than she is. It's not suggested that this sort of thing is done because ...
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| African Gray - she is 3 years old - biting question | 5/21/2009 |
Q: My daughter and son in (ages 26 and 24) law have a 3 year old African Gray -Liberty since she first ...
A: Birds don't perceive our hormones any more than we can perceive theirs, but yes, there are other ...
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| African Grey Congo doessnt Talk | 5/21/2009 |
Q: I got an African Grey Congo about two months ago. It is about one and a half to two years old. ...
A: Birds are individuals, just like people. Some people are very outgoing and chatty (like movie ...
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| male macaw? | 5/19/2009 |
Q: We have a military/ blue and gold macaw that was supposed to be a 12 year old male that laid three ...
A: Congratulations on having a girl. It is possible for females to live an entire, 60+ year lifetime ...
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| extreme behavior change with only me. | 5/19/2009 |
Q: I love our bird and am the only one who used to hold it in my lap,take it in the car visit the pet ...
A: It was probably the same kind of BAM! to your bird. No kidding. There is usually something that ...
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| African Grey Parrot | 5/18/2009 |
Q: I have recently been given a 10 year old African grey parrot but I am concerned about it's health. ...
A: The short answer is "yes" see a vet better experienced with birds than the one you saw. And keep ...
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| Peachface Parrot | 5/18/2009 |
Q: I am trying to find out why my peachface picks out the feathers on his/her shoulders. They even look ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
|
| dove with worm | 5/18/2009 |
Q: I have some pet doves they are kept indoors only and yet one of the pood a roundworm, can I treat ...
A: You are right, with birds kept indoors and regularly cleaned cages, Endoparasites are relatively ...
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| nanday conure Parrot sick??? | 5/17/2009 |
Q: my parrot has been making this weird wheezing noise,and shaking his head and he has been keeping his ...
A: There is a type of mite that a wide range of birds may be infected with, called Air Sac Mites. ...
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| yellow headed amazon | 5/16/2009 |
Q: I have had my bird for three years.I think its about four years old lately it has developed grey ...
A: Feather Discoloration presenting in what looks like a horizontal line across an area of the body or ...
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| sick conure | 5/16/2009 |
Q: i have a pet white-eyed conure. She is about to be 2 years old in July but all of a sudden can not ...
A: As unusual as it may sound, when a bird loses control of their feet, grasping ability or balance, ...
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| Blue and Yellow macaw changing color? | 5/16/2009 |
Q: Abbott, About a year ago I adopted a blue and yellow macaw called Lara. I took her in because I ...
A: I know this will be difficult, but it will help a great deal: Can you take a pic ? Is she ...
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| Cockatoo blood test results | 5/15/2009 |
Q: My sexed female lesser sulfer crested cockatoo was brought into a vet that cared for birds as I had ...
A: Metal toxicity (lead, zinc being most commonly found). Quick links, cage bars, even professionally ...
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| spraying with hose | 5/14/2009 |
Q: My Indian Ringneck (Micola) does not like to take bath's but he does love to be sprayed with the ...
A: When your bird doesn't want to be sprayed he'll stop moving a lot, keep his head down, wings tucked ...
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| Another Tail Feather Question | 5/13/2009 |
Q: I found a Tucuman Amazon parrot on Craigs List yesterday. He is a really nice bird. He calls ...
A: I have to agree that I'd be skeptic about the prediction that the feathers are permanently gone. ...
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| A parrotlet nesting all the time | 5/13/2009 |
Q: My 3 1/2 year odl female parrotlet keeps nesting all the time. I had to take her to the vet to have ...
A: Whether the bird is laying or not, make sure you provide fresh cuttlebone to females at all times to ...
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| pin fathers, age and amazons | 5/12/2009 |
Q: do parrots have pin feathers through all their life or mostly within a young age ? i can't seem to ...
A: Looks like a blue front Yes, pin feathers occur in all parrots and happen for life. A couple ...
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| hurt cockateils foot | 5/12/2009 |
Q: my quaker managed to get at my cockateil(the quaker is a houdini) and bit him on his toe through ...
A: Carefully rinse the wound with simple saline solution (like you rinse or moisten contact lenses ...
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| Indian ring neck | 5/12/2009 |
Q: We just brought a new member to our family home. A Young Indian ring neck. It was weaned off a ...
A: Congratulations on your new addition! And good for you in recognizing that the longer it ...
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| Parrotlet egg laying | 5/11/2009 |
Q: Our young (almost 2 years old) Parrottlet has laid an egg. We didn't plan to breed her and suspect ...
A: Leave the eggs until she stops sitting. Of course if you notice any breaks or cracks - or they ...
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| Feeding baby lovebirds | 5/11/2009 |
Q: I am hand rearing 3 baby lovebirds due to the mother escaping from the aviary. I do not have any ...
A: Carefully place the baby (chick) on a towel and gently cup your hand around the body for support. ...
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| conure abnormal behaviour | 5/10/2009 |
Q: he has got on with my partner really well but all of a sudden he has started to attack him and on a ...
A: When the bird bites, it’s getting feedback that it likes and that's why they continue. It might ...
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| Indian Ringneck stopped eating and bites me now! | 5/9/2009 |
Q: A week back I got an Indian Ringnech Parakeet from one of the petshops here. I don't know how old it ...
A: The first thing I'd suggest is providing a "sleep cage" . It doesn't have to be a big cage, just ...
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| Parrot-male or female? | 5/9/2009 |
Q: Is this parrot a male or female and how would i know the difference? Do they need something to chew ...
A: I believe this is a 'great billed parrot' also known as a Moluccan or Island parrot. It's very ...
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| my budgie died | 5/9/2009 |
Q: My name is Danielle. I had a female budgie called Charlie. One day in May 2007 I had to rush her to ...
A: Be sure to get Polly started on a healthy pellet diet rather than let her have mostly seeds - and ...
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| Hello | 5/9/2009 |
Q: i am really glad i'm able to ask my question to an expert for free! : ) i have an african grey ...
A: My family, on my father's side, is Lebanese and Syrian, although having left many years ago. I'm ...
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| my budgie died | 5/8/2009 |
Q: My name is Danielle. I had a female budgie called Charlie. One day in May 2007 I had to rush her to ...
A: I believe that Charlie is with you, but in spirit. That she's very much alive, but on the other ...
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| my budgie died | 5/7/2009 |
Q: My name is Danielle. I had a female budgie called Charlie. One day in May 2007 I had to rush her to ...
A: Danielle, I'm deeply sorry for your loss. I have also suffered losses similar and though many years ...
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| Cockatiel about 14 years old | 5/7/2009 |
Q: My cockatiel has had an eye infection in the right eye for over a month- the eye is swollen and ...
A: Try the boric acid solution in the formula I outlined earlier and continue on the antibiotics for ...
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| fixing Sun conure behavior issues | 5/7/2009 |
Q: My sun conure attacks anyone in my room besides myself, i have had her for eight years and when i ...
A: Establishing a routine is very helpful. Birds like this really appreciate a 'habit'. In fact, her ...
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| Cockatiel about 14 years old | 5/6/2009 |
Q: My cockatiel has had an eye infection in the right eye for over a month- the eye is swollen and ...
A: I don't blame you for being concerned. Anesthesia for a bird is always dangerous Where are you ...
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| pets | 5/6/2009 |
Q: how do i raise an indian ring necked parrot coz there is'nt any feeding formula available in india
A: A temporary feeding formula for unweaned birds, that can be used for just a few days: (Human) baby ...
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| Cockatiel Behaviour | 5/5/2009 |
Q: My cockatiel has started rubbing his tail on his perch. I noticed it about 5 months ago. I'm not ...
A: Birds don’t actually go into a ‘heat’, but they sure do engage in some similar behaviors once ...
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| Recently Rehomed Senegal Behavior | 5/5/2009 |
Q: Good day Dr. Abbott, A week ago my wife and I acquired a four year old Senegal Parrot from its ...
A: Congratulations on your new companion and thank you for wanting to do this right. I trust that ...
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| Scarlet Macaw Female | 5/4/2009 |
Q: My scarlet is about 15 years old. I have had her about 1-1/2 years. Today May 2, she started ...
A: I am most staunchly against adding anything to a bird's water with very few exceptions. Natural ...
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| tiel question | 5/4/2009 |
Q: I just got a cockatiel about one month ago. Today I noticed that she had really red nostrils. I ...
A: possible problem is Rhinitis (inflammation of the nares/nostrils). There is nasal discharge involved ...
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| quakerparrot | 5/3/2009 |
Q: I own a 32+yr old quaker parrot. he fell off his perch and has injured his foot. He can still ...
A: That's quite a good age for a Quaker. You're doing the right things so far with removing his ...
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| Baby Parot formular | 5/3/2009 |
Q: Can you tell me what I should feed a baby parot about 3 weeks old. I read somewhere that they ...
A: Professional formula is available at most pet stores and should be mixed according to directions ...
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| 29 year old african grey | 5/3/2009 |
Q: our bird is sounding normal, but is acting funny. One eye is squint shut and he shudders at times ...
A: By the time a bird is noticeably ill, chances are that the problem has been brewing for some time. ...
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| cockatiel sleeping more | 5/2/2009 |
Q: i have a lutino female cockatiel. Actually it is very hot here (104 degree F). and during afternoon ...
A: Vitamin A deficiency (hypovitaminosis A) may lead to respiratory problems in birds which present as ...
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| Scarlet Macaw Female | 5/2/2009 |
Q: My scarlet is about 15 years old. I have had her about 1-1/2 years. Today May 2, she started ...
A: Regurgitating can also be a symptom of crop infection or other problems, but generally it’s a threat ...
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| african grey | 5/2/2009 |
Q: I accidently cut two of my parrots nails a bit to much and they started to bleed it scarred me to ...
A: Hopefully it has stopped already. If not, immediate medical attention is suggested since these ...
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| cockatiel sleeping more | 5/1/2009 |
Q: i have a lutino female cockatiel. Actually it is very hot here (104 degree F). and during afternoon ...
A: Cockatiels are well adapted to high and low temp extremes since they originated in desert areas of ...
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| sneezing sun conure | 5/1/2009 |
Q: my bird is about 9-10 weeks old and sneezes on few times a day. she eats all the time. her poop is ...
A: It could be a reaction to a foreign object, which may be as common as dust or dander, even their ...
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| African Grey | 4/30/2009 |
Q: My african grey has a problem and was just wondering what it could be. As she sits and breathes she ...
A: There is a type of mite that a wide range of birds may be infected with, called Air Sac Mites. ...
|
| LOVE BIRD EGGS | 4/30/2009 |
Q: they were all very help ful. My peach face love birds laid first egg on 5th of March (total five ...
A: If the parents have been attending to the eggs and they're in a nest box, weather shouldn't be a ...
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| LOVE BIRD EGGS | 4/29/2009 |
Q: they were all very help ful. My peach face love birds laid first egg on 5th of March (total five ...
A: If the eggs were laid in early March and are not hatched at this point in time, they are not going ...
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| swollen eye | 4/29/2009 |
Q: i have 2 male budgies one of them has his upper eyelid of the right eye swollen , and slightly ...
A: Very good question! Yes, keeping two birds together, whether they are the same species or even ...
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| At what age baby alexandrine starts eating on its own | 4/29/2009 |
Q: I have a 6 weeks old baby alexandrine and his Wings and chest are now almost fully covered with ...
A: Your bird should be starting to wean by now. Tube feeding is something that should only be reserved ...
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| Parrot Behaviour | 4/24/2009 |
Q: I wondered if you could help me atall. A few years ago, we rescued a Senegal parrot that was found ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird and even though you found this ...
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| spoiled african grey | 4/24/2009 |
Q: i have a 11 month old African grey, i had him since he was 10 weeks old (2.5 months) he's very ...
A: The best part of this is that your grey is still very, very young. Given they have a life ...
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| Parakeets and cold | 4/24/2009 |
Q: How can you tell if a Parakeet is cold? because my house right now is around 65degrees and I'm ...
A: 65 isn't really too low Keep her out of drafts though and it would be best to layer a doubled ...
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| Sun Bites | 4/23/2009 |
Q: I just adopted a Sun three years old from a male and I am female he said he thinks the bird is ...
A: We don't want to hurt the male's feelings, but the bird can't tell what we are anymore than we can ...
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| taming my birds | 4/23/2009 |
Q: I have two ringneck parakeets ,which are adults now,that we bought a month ago!They are very ...
A: The methods you were told are very old world and have been shown to often make things worse. ...
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| African Grey hen - egg laying | 4/22/2009 |
Q: I have had my parrot for about 3 years after taking her in from an unwanted home. I was told she was ...
A: A regular vet who knows birds is just fine for treating birds. The important thing is that they ...
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| Friend for a male cockatiel. | 4/21/2009 |
Q: I have a one year old male cockatiel, and he has been acting very lonely lately.. going so far as to ...
A: I understand how you feel. You don't need another bird though - just add some challenging toys to ...
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| feather picking/bleeding | 4/21/2009 |
Q: My sweet 12 yr old umbrella cockatoo has been a feather chewer since I got her 6 years ago. She had ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| amazon parrot ate raw pork | 4/21/2009 |
Q: my dbl. yell. amazon ate some uncooked pork yesterday,i cant afford at vet visit unless emerg. ...
A: These days the threat from raw pork is far less than what it was 50 years ago, or even 25. The ...
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| Indian Ring-neck Parrot obsessed with bathroom floor? | 4/21/2009 |
Q: S.August Abbott, I am writing to you because I have a 6 year old Indian Ring-neck female parrot ...
A: It's not the floor, it's the room. This isn't uncommon. In fact I have a big macaw that does the ...
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| Lovebirds | 4/20/2009 |
Q: One of my lovebirds just died. I have read they mate for life. Would the remaining lovebird accept ...
A: It's true that for the most part these birds keep a mate for many years, but when one is lost (dies) ...
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| Hahns macaw | 4/20/2009 |
Q: I am getting a Hahns macaw on Thursday. Her hatch date is febuary 2008. I am trying to find out as ...
A: This size macaw will mature at 2-3 years, but it's possible to curb the usual behavioral changes ...
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| green cheek and Nanday breeding | 4/20/2009 |
Q: I have a female green cheek, she is two years old, and a Nanday who is thought to be about 15. We ...
A: A Nanday conure is a member of the Aratinga conure species A Green Cheek is a member of the ...
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| goffin sexual maturity | 4/19/2009 |
Q: I have a male Goffin's Cockatoo and was wondering when they reach sexual maturity? My Goffin has ...
A: This does sound like early displays of maturity, although he should have reached his birdy-manhood ...
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| Umbrella cockatoo | 4/19/2009 |
Q: Yesterday our cockatoo did not seem herself. She loves riding on our shoulder and when my wife ...
A: Of course you're concerned, this is a family member and it's pretty obvious you love her a lot. I ...
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| swollen eye | 4/18/2009 |
Q: i have 2 male budgies one of them has his upper eyelid of the right eye swollen , and slightly ...
A: Eye redness, swelling, discharge are on the list of signs of illness in our companion birds (look ...
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| My Cockatiel Injured his Foot | 4/17/2009 |
Q: 3 days ago I saw my cockatiel was limping. I looked at his toes and saw that the two front toes on ...
A: The reaction you saw isn't unusual as the result of stress. It might not have been the medication. ...
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| Moody Myers | 4/16/2009 |
Q: I have a two year old Myers Parrot named Trinity and I noticed her behavior has changed a bit. I ...
A: Cardboard isn't good if eaten because of the processing glue that's in it There are a lot more ...
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| Moody Myers | 4/16/2009 |
Q: I have a two year old Myers Parrot named Trinity and I noticed her behavior has changed a bit. I ...
A: The first thing we always have to do when we see something different happening in our companions is ...
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| Pseudomonas / African Grey Hatched Jan09 | 4/15/2009 |
Q: I was supposed to get my African Grey very soon but then he had abnormal droppings of a yellowish ...
A: Pseudomonas is a non-enteric, gram negative bacteria that is sometimes caused by prolonged use of ...
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| Peachfaced lovebird | 4/15/2009 |
Q: My question is: I have a peach faced lovebird that is 2 years old and today I have noticed that ...
A: I would play it safe. In every case, every time - value the life of your bird. Which I can tell ...
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| Peachfaced lovebird | 4/15/2009 |
Q: My question is: I have a peach faced lovebird that is 2 years old and today I have noticed that ...
A: The cloaca is also known as the vent in a bird, the opening from which both feces and urine exit the ...
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| Alexandrine Baby | 4/14/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 weeks old baby alexandrine and I want to know; at what age baby alexandrine starts to ...
A: In all my years with birds I've never, ever found a tape, CD or DVD that really worked to teach a ...
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| Green cheek conures | 4/13/2009 |
Q: We haven't brought it home yet, and aren't sure about the sex yet. The bird is still being handfed ...
A: I am SO glad you asked this! I am strongly against hook bills (parrots) sharing cages. The ...
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| Sun Conure | 4/11/2009 |
Q: My Sun Conure is about 5-6 weeks old. I am still hand feeding him three to four times a day. I have ...
A: Decreasing the ‘baby food’ while increasing the pellet formula (strongly suggested as opposed to an ...
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| british budgie | 4/7/2009 |
Q: my budgie charlie 2yrs old about 8 weeks ago he took a bad moult his feathers in his head and face ...
A: No grit for hook billed birds. Simple as that. Not necessary and potentially dangerous, a common ...
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| Yellowish Droppings African Grey | 4/7/2009 |
Q: My Breeder called and said that my African Grey ( which was supposed to shipped to me last friday ) ...
A: I welcome the opportunity to set the record straight about grapes. They are wonderful foods for ...
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| REDNECK PARAKEETS | 4/7/2009 |
Q: Two Redneck parakeets were abandoned and given to me. They are in separate cages. Will there be a ...
A: When it comes to birds like this, other than with canaries, finches and other ‘straight beaked’ ...
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| newly adopted biting conure | 4/5/2009 |
Q: I just adopted a cherry headed conure that is 11 yrs old. He has not had much quality attention ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| parrot problem | 4/5/2009 |
Q: I have a green indian parrot.It is 5 years I have bought it.It has layed an egg a month ago ,but no ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| british budgie | 4/4/2009 |
Q: my budgie charlie 2yrs old about 8 weeks ago he took a bad moult his feathers in his head and face ...
A: you are doing a very good job with him and it's nice to see someone caring this much for their bird. ...
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| African Grey Aggression | 4/4/2009 |
Q: I have a 7 year old old African Grey Male aka (Rocky). Yesterday he was playing on door frame ...
A: The best part of this is that you're catching it early before it becomes a habit that he's getting ...
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| british budgie | 4/2/2009 |
Q: my budgie charlie 2yrs old about 8 weeks ago he took a bad moult his feathers in his head and face ...
A: Please, no vitamins in the water. On a good diet, adding vitamins to foods or water is not only ...
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| Mollucan cockatoo and cell phone | 4/2/2009 |
Q: My 7 year old mollucan all of a sudden becomes crazy if you use cell phone (new 3g) around him and ...
A: No, it's not a frequency issue, it's a fear reaction. Nearly all birds will react in an exaggerated ...
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| macaw | 4/1/2009 |
Q: I have a Female macaw about 10 years old that lay 2 eggs, they are not fertile. How long should I ...
A: What a beautiful girl! She's trying to be a good mom isn't she? You're right to leave the eggs ...
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| cockatiel laying eggs | 3/31/2009 |
Q: i have a female cockatiel who is laying eggs without male. i know they wont hatch as she has laid a ...
A: You are very right to want to curb this quickly. When a bird lays she’s got a very increased risk ...
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| My budgie has scabs on her beak | 3/29/2009 |
Q: should i take her to the vet or just leave it be.?
A: Some possibilities are a certain kind of mite, or virus, vitamin/mineral deficiencies (in keeping ...
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| indian ringneck parakeet | 3/28/2009 |
Q: In June last year my mum gave me her 4 year old ringneck parakeet. As he was already familiar with ...
A: Very good question. While birds don't sense human hormones or pregnancy, they are masters at ...
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| Parrot - watery stool | 3/28/2009 |
Q: My veterinarian is on vacation. I had my 26 year old Yellow Nape Amazon at the Vet a couple of weeks ...
A: I am VERY glad you asked this I avoid antibiotics at all costs, using only when absolutely ...
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| related amazon parrots fighting | 3/28/2009 |
Q: We have 2 amazon parrots (related) that live together 2 weeks of the month (separate cages). Female ...
A: Well, though this is possible, it's also possible that they're just communicating. The problem ...
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| Bald Spots | 3/26/2009 |
Q: I have a 4 year old female Eclectus parrot. She has never had any issues before. Recently I ...
A: I can understand your concern and there are a few things you might want to do in order to get her ...
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| related amazon parrots fighting | 3/26/2009 |
Q: We have 2 amazon parrots (related) that live together 2 weeks of the month (separate cages). Female ...
A: When it comes to parrots like this I don’t believe in cage sharing. The top reasons for this ...
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| cockatiel nutrition | 3/25/2009 |
Q: I am concerned about my two cockatiels diet. I know they should be eating fresh fruits and ...
A: Julie, so far you're doing a fantastic job. It’s generally recommended that most of today’s ...
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| my birdie | 3/25/2009 |
Q: i just adopted a blue and gold macaw she is 25 her old family didn't want her anymore. my question ...
A: Eggs typically deliver (are laid) within 20 hours of being fertilized or begun to form. Yes, ...
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| love birds behaviour | 3/24/2009 |
Q: . he has shredded everything he can lay his beak on and has made a nest on the bottom of the cage.. ...
A: Birds don’t actually go into a ‘heat’, but they sure do engage in some similar behaviors once ...
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| Hahn's | 3/23/2009 |
Q: I have a couple but I will try to make them brief. I have a Hahn's Macaw that is about 5 1/2 years ...
A: Very good question. First, no, your bird does not sense human hormones any more than we can sense ...
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| Indian Ringneck & Alexandrine | 3/22/2009 |
Q: I have Indian Ringneck (Male) and Alexandrine (Female).Last week to my surprise Alexandrine laid 2 ...
A: Leave the eggs with her. This should help curb excessive egg laying which can result in serious ...
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| Indian Ringneck & Alexandrine | 3/21/2009 |
Q: I have Indian Ringneck (Male) and Alexandrine (Female).Last week to my surprise Alexandrine laid 2 ...
A: Different species of birds that bond to each other, sometimes even two of the same sex birds, will ...
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| Quaker odd behavior | 3/20/2009 |
Q: I just bought a quaker from a breeder, he's 12 weeks old and has trouble using one of his legs. ...
A: Let’s go over a few of the more common causes behind what you're describing: Sometimes a tumor on ...
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| eye infection? | 3/17/2009 |
Q: I noticed my conure keeping his left eye closed yesterday, I looked at it and noticed it looked a ...
A: Eye redness, swelling, discharge are on the list of signs of illness in our companion birds (look ...
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| swollen eye | 3/17/2009 |
Q: My B&G has a swollen eye and is not chattering. This has happened several times and mostly when ...
A: No, birds do not catch human or other mammals 'colds', which are a species specific virus. So ...
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| Jenday Conure plucking feathers | 3/16/2009 |
Q: My Jenday Conure is 4 years old and I noticed before I bathed him tonight that he has raw skin under ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Female Cockatiel laying alot of eggs | 3/14/2009 |
Q: I have a female bird that keeps laying eggs, but i don't have a male bird to fertilize them. Is it ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| bird laying eggs without a mate | 3/14/2009 |
Q: I hand raised an african grey. She is about 14 yrs old. She is in a room with a male cockatoo. ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course ...
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| Ringneck Behavior | 3/13/2009 |
Q: I have adopted a lost ringneck who couldn't be reunited with her(I think) family. I am not sure if ...
A: I wouldn't do this (blowing) until she bonds more with you. When it's done gently with a bonded ...
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| Rocky the parrot | 3/13/2009 |
Q: I don't know if you remember me, but I wrote to you a year ago about my parrot Rocky here in China. ...
A: How nice to hear from you Paul and to know that you've persisted in handling Rocky. You must have ...
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| Fevers in parrots | 3/12/2009 |
Q: I have a friend with a lovebird and she says she thinks he is running a fever. She was told that you ...
A: Yes, it's sort of true. While you can't really tell their temp, you can often get an indication of ...
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| Scarlett Macaw - covering at night | 3/12/2009 |
Q: I have always been told, and read in all the books that birds should have a routine which includes ...
A: It's true about a routine and covering is recommended, but not at the expense of the bird's ...
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| african grey | 3/12/2009 |
Q: my 2 year old congo grey keeps flicking his wings while he is at rest what is wrong with him
A: This is usually an attempt to regulate their body temp, either make themselves cooler or warmer. ...
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| Repainting a bird cage | 3/10/2009 |
Q: Is there a special paint to use to repaint a bird cage? Thank You
A: Yes and thank you for asking this. Use a 'child safe' spray paint that's approved for use in ...
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| Male Sun Conure Sexual Behaviour | 3/10/2009 |
Q: I have a 4 yr old Sun Conure (Sunny). I am pretty sure he is male due to the characteristics he is ...
A: You're right about birds not actually going into a ‘heat’, but they sure do engage in some similar ...
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| my umbrella cockatoo | 3/8/2009 |
Q: i have a 2 year old umbrella cockatoo. she doesn't really like anyone but me and everytime i go near ...
A: A bird that bobs its head up and down in a sort of pumping motion, beak open and then a purposeful ...
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| What type of Parrot | 3/8/2009 |
Q: I am attaching a picture of my parrot to help identify. Thanks for all the help
A: Beautiful bird! It's a little hard for me to see for sure, but this looks like a black capped ...
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| African Gray Beak | 3/8/2009 |
Q: I have a gray that is around 7 years old. I adopted a little over 1 1/2 years ago. His beak is ...
A: It's probably a normal molt, but you should keep an eye on him for any other symptoms such as ...
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| African Grey | 3/8/2009 |
Q: I obtained ownership of a 22yr/old African Grey who was mal nourished and scratching out half of its ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Surgical Complications Eclectus Parrot | 3/7/2009 |
Q: Abbott - Last week, my 7 month old male Red-Sided Eclectus broke his leg. I didn't see him do it, ...
A: I have to agree with you that this is disturbing. Ask for a typewritten copy of this report and ...
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| IRN BABY | 3/7/2009 |
Q: This is the first hand feeding experience for me, How much should a three week be eating and how ...
A: Pulling a chick for hand feeding should be done only about 2 weeks before they’ll wean (which means ...
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| Nanday Conure Exhibits Strange Behavior After Egg Laying | 3/4/2009 |
Q: I have a Nanday Conure female with no male companion. She lays eggs from time to time. She was fine ...
A: The thing I am most concerned about with a female bird displaying these symptoms is dystocia or egg ...
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| breathing problem to my parrot | 3/4/2009 |
Q: i have 1 parrot. he is 3 months old. his species is pahadi parrot. he is green in collor with red ...
A: There is a type of mite that a wide range of birds may be infected with, called Air Sac Mites. ...
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| Parrot behavioral issues | 3/3/2009 |
Q: I have an Orange Wing Amazon Parrot named Tinker, he is approximately 27-30 years old. He ...
A: Introducing birds to new people or getting past bird’s acting jealous, possessive or fickle takes ...
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| Goffins cockatoo weird behavior | 3/2/2009 |
Q: she is hand raised and I got her when she was 5 months. For the past 2 years or so she does this ...
A: This is extremely common. You are not alone. Some things that might help are: Increase her ...
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| Cockatiels | 3/2/2009 |
Q: I was wondering which brand of pellets are best for cockatiels.
A: I'd start with any that has no coloring or flavoring, like Exact or Harrison's It doesn't matter ...
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| lovebirds | 3/1/2009 |
Q: I have purchased 2 lovebirds (not sexed)at a pet store about 2 weeks ago. They will be a year old ...
A: If this "rescue" person isn't a vet and didn't examine your birds, I wouldn't be too sure about her ...
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| lovebirds | 2/28/2009 |
Q: I have purchased 2 lovebirds (not sexed)at a pet store about 2 weeks ago. They will be a year old ...
A: A pair of birds, no matter which species, often keep to themselves rather than interact ...
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| Maggie blue/gold mccaw | 2/28/2009 |
Q: Dr. August, Thank you for taking the time to answer my very important question regarding my 11 year ...
A: Right now I'd leave things be. Unless the egg is cracked or broken, let her have it. Once she ...
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| macaw eggs | 2/27/2009 |
Q: i have a green wing that i thought was a male since i know that my blue and gold is a male and no ...
A: If there is no male mate with her within the last month, there is no possibility the eggs will be ...
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| African Grey bath | 2/27/2009 |
Q: I have just seen how do I shower the African Grey parrot for the first time. My question is how many ...
A: Give it a try once a week. If your bird doesn't seem to be interested after a few minutes of ...
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| pearly conure | 2/27/2009 |
Q: I have a pearly conure "baby" that is just over a year old. She is in a free flight aviary with ...
A: She's growing up. With this comes instincts that drive her to manage her environment and establish ...
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| african grey parror | 2/26/2009 |
Q: dry skin plucking feathers out wont come out of cage he is 2 years old eat mixed parrot food plus ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| coccidia parasite | 2/26/2009 |
Q: Could a coccidia parasite live in a blue & gold feces? Could it be transfer?
A: Coccidian protozoan parasites are not likely to be found in B&G macaw's or other psittacine birds ...
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| Biting fingers | 2/25/2009 |
Q: I have a lovebird that is around 6 months old. I've had him since a couple of weeks old and have ...
A: Since he's friendly overall, this won't be very difficult. Also, his youth is a big benefit. ...
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| Rozella | 2/24/2009 |
Q: Good day, I have recently bought a baby rozella and I am very interested to know, whether this kind ...
A: When it comes to teaching a bird to talk, it’s important to start with a bird that actually has this ...
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| Safe room temperature for lovebird | 2/23/2009 |
Q: Our peach-faced lovebird flies freely in the house and chooses to sit in a 61-62 degree room. He can ...
A: It's fine. As long as this is something he's used to and you are feeding a good, balanced diet for ...
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| Sudden change of parrot's behaviour. | 2/23/2009 |
Q: Abbott We've got a male African Grey parrot(1Year,8months old)who's behaviour towards me have just ...
A: Let's try to start the relationship all over again. It's very common for owners to give birds ...
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| plucking vs. unzipping | 2/22/2009 |
Q: How can you tell the difference between plucking and unzipping?
A: Plucking is when a bird pulls feathers out completely and habitually. A plucked bird will have ...
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| cockatiel laying eggs | 2/20/2009 |
Q: I have a female cockatiel n i have it for the past six months. It is single n does not have a male. ...
A: The spinach rumor took on a life of its own once laypeople heard that it can prevent calcium ...
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| what do I do with un wanted macaws? | 2/20/2009 |
Q: I got 2 macaws, a female Catalina and a male scarlett, Someone was just going to dumb them. I have ...
A: As you might know from my profile, I own an animal rescue org. However, I'm not able to take on ...
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| diet/grooming | 2/19/2009 |
Q: My grey seems to groom excessively, especially new feathers, so that they often do not come in at ...
A: Pellets should be the majority of her diet (about 80%) with fresh foods being great supplements as ...
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| Amazon parrot sudden death | 2/19/2009 |
Q: Our 30 year old Spectacled Amazon suddenly died a few hours ago. He appeared to be fine this morning ...
A: I'm deeply sorry for your loss. It has to hurt beyond explanation right now and I do understand how ...
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| baby lovebirds | 2/18/2009 |
Q: please could you advise me on jan 28th two of my lovebird eggs hatched they are being fed well by ...
A: You can start handling at about 4 weeks, but make sure your hands are well washed and dried before ...
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| Eclectus | 2/18/2009 |
Q: I have a question regarding an male eclectus that I have just purchased. I probably did the wrong ...
A: He's not unhappy with you, he's still learning you! You're doing a wonderful job with everything ...
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| parrot death | 2/17/2009 |
Q: my 18 month old parrot died suddenly and she was very healthy. The initial vet autopsy showed ...
A: I'm very sorry for your loss. It is always painful to lose a companion, no matter what the reason. ...
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| bird pulling his feathers out | 2/17/2009 |
Q: A gentlemen I clean for has a small parrottIt started pulling its feathers out. Was wondering how ...
A: Some birds start plucking because they have some sort of parasite infestation, either on them or in ...
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| Could I introduce a tame Princess Parrot to my tame Cockatiel? | 2/16/2009 |
Q: I am a volunteer at my local RSPCA and they have a Princess Parrot foundling. I think it is a young ...
A: Sharing a cage isn't suggested for any parrots unless they're breeders and not pets. Top two ...
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| cockatiel laying eggs | 2/15/2009 |
Q: I have a female cockatiel n i have it for the past six months. It is single n does not have a male. ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| Parrot Choice | 2/15/2009 |
Q: I'm thinking of getting a large parrot in some time but I can't decide... Which one would you pick: ...
A: Any hookbilled parrot is going to be able to pack a pretty hard bite. The strongest beak of all ...
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| my greenwing macaw | 2/14/2009 |
Q: my green wing macaw is picking all her feathers out i need to know what i can do to stop her from ...
A: The toys are important for distraction and intellectual input. Most birds self mutilate (pluck) ...
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| parrots +darkness=???? | 2/12/2009 |
Q: could parrots see in the dark or are they afraid of darkness???
A: Parrots have very poor night vision, but are not blind in darkness anymore than we are. The more ...
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| my parakeet | 2/11/2009 |
Q: She also isn't able to fly now she used to be able to but not she can't stay up. Do you know what ...
A: Chances are you feed a mostly seed mix diet right? As unusual as it may sound, when a bird loses ...
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| my Cockatiel was fine last night and dead this morning why? | 2/11/2009 |
Q: I have a 1 yrs old Cockatiel he gets high quality seeds, natural treats, he was fine used to look ...
A: There is very little more painful for us than to find our feathered companion passed away with ...
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| tail | 2/11/2009 |
Q: i have a sun conure, named kiwi. kiwi's tail seems to look different than normal. the difference i ...
A: Yes - at this time of year it could be the result of old feathers ready to molt soon. Feather ...
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| My Black - Capped Conure | 2/10/2009 |
Q: i purchased a black capped conure about a week and a half ago...and ever since today It has been ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| Conure with a swollen Eye | 2/10/2009 |
Q: I have a brown throated conure and I just noticed today that his eye was swollen. It doesn't hurt ...
A: Boric acid solution may be tried in order to control secondary infections: 1 tablespoon boric acid + ...
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| Flying Parrotlet | 2/9/2009 |
Q: I have a 9-week old parrotlet. She's a hand fed baby who had her wings clipped. I've had her about a ...
A: You're right to want to protect her from falling or landing too hard because of her wing trimming ...
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| Lovebird Feather Loss | 2/9/2009 |
Q: I have a 7 month lovebird and she has recently started loosing feathers. They are just falling off ...
A: From what I can see in the pic and your description, this is a usual molt. Many birds are going ...
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| Macaw parrots, fecal material on carpets | 2/8/2009 |
Q: Can parrot fecal material be removed from carpets to help prevent disease transmission to humans?
A: It sure can and all it takes is regular vacuuming. If you encounter still wet or moist droppings, ...
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| Sun Conure acting strange or sick? after laying egg | 2/7/2009 |
Q: My beloved sun conure "Lulu" laid an egg two days ago. It is her second egg. Her first was actually ...
A: Well, it's not exactly wrong to think that as long as she's eating, she's ok; but, it's not 100% ...
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| bird's legs not working | 2/7/2009 |
Q: I have an amazon parrot that within the last two days with no warning his legs have become useless. ...
A: When a bird loses control of their feet, grasping ability or balance, it is very likely the result ...
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| baby parrot | 2/5/2009 |
Q: , and being very very picky with his food so i was afraid he wasn't getting enough nutrition.. so i ...
A: Returning to hand feeding an already weaned bird is something you should only reserve for emergency ...
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| tracing bands | 2/5/2009 |
Q: I need to apply for CITES permits for my parrots and I am having a hard time tracing bands. There ...
A: Domestic birds wear closed bands. Their traceability depends upon the source of the band. Many bird ...
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| parrot | 2/5/2009 |
Q: i have a parrot 4mons old it was given to me as a gift i notice that it has white flakes that go ...
A: The white flakes you're seeing is dander. Perfectly normal little pieces of skin and feather ...
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| Feather mutilation | 2/4/2009 |
Q: Abbott, I was wondering if, in your experience with African Grey parrots, you've ever come across ...
A: Since the antihistamine worked, I'll approach this from an allergy standpoint. Just like humans ...
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| Feather mutilation | 2/3/2009 |
Q: Abbott, I was wondering if, in your experience with African Grey parrots, you've ever come across ...
A: Has she been genetically screened for disease? This would have included a blood sample sent off for ...
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| Blue and gold on rampage | 2/3/2009 |
Q: We have a 22 yr old Blue and Gold ~ Mikey. He has a mate of 7 years or so and produced 2 babies. ...
A: It seems that your B&G has found a drama reward for his misbehavior. The reaction you're giving him ...
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| Putting parrots together | 2/3/2009 |
Q: I have a red lored amazon which I have had for the last twelve years, I have just been asked to take ...
A: I've found that just about any birds can get along as long as they're not housed in the same cage. ...
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| Cockatiel Eye Problems | 2/2/2009 |
Q: I have a lutino cockatiel that is having an issue with her eyes. One of her eyes seems to have a ...
A: It's hard to know exactly what's going on without a hands on exam, but this sounds like a papilloma ...
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| lovebird laid egg | 2/2/2009 |
Q: I have a lovebird around 8 months and cockatiel around 1 year. yesterday i noticed some inflation in ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| Amazon Parrot Preening | 2/2/2009 |
Q: I have just acquired a 3rd "child". He's an 8yr old Green Fronted Amazon Parrot. I have noticed that ...
A: The first thing you absolutely need to do is have a vet check. All of the birds that come into my ...
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| Eclectus Behavior | 2/2/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 year old female Eclectus Parrot. I've had her about 2 months. She has a peculiar ...
A: What you may be seeing is a submissive behavior by a female bonding with mating overtures. It ...
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| Eclectus Behavior | 2/1/2009 |
Q: I have a 3 year old female Eclectus Parrot. I've had her about 2 months. She has a peculiar ...
A: When this happens do you also notice her tail going up and perhaps off to one side or the other? ...
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| blue and gold macaw won't stop laying eggs at age 7 | 2/1/2009 |
Q: My blue and Gold Macaw named "Lucy" started laying eggs at age 6. I totally freaked out on the first ...
A: You're better off leaving her alone right now, as long as she's still eating and drinking and you ...
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| my daughter's alexandrine parrot. | 2/1/2009 |
Q: my daughter has an Alexandrine parrot and he's getting black spots on the top of his tail. I don't ...
A: Feather Discoloration presenting in what looks like a horizontal line across an area of the body or ...
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| Lorikeet eyes | 1/31/2009 |
Q: Reverend, both of my lorikeet's eyes appear to have a crust around them and are possibly somewhat ...
A: Eye redness, swelling, discharge are on the list of signs of illness in our companion birds (look ...
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| Eclectus tumor | 1/31/2009 |
Q: I have a 15yo female grand Eclectus that has an abdominal growth. She is under the care of an ...
A: A study published by (and in journals) with the Dept. of Nutrition, Zootechnics & Zoohygiene and ...
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| my weiros attitude | 1/31/2009 |
Q: i own a hand raised weiro which i am sure is a male for about six months now he comes out of his ...
A: Unfortunately, once you introduced another bird, you only made things worse. Obviously you know ...
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| root cause behind green-cheek conure laying eggs | 1/30/2009 |
Q: We were told by our vet that our 10 year old green-cheek conure laid some eggs(only second time ...
A: That's an interesting accusation. From the rest of this vet's instructions I would have to believe ...
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| macaws | 1/30/2009 |
Q: and i was wondering if all pet shops have macaws because im scared that when i go to get my macaw ...
A: I'll be happy to help you prepare for your new bird. You have a big task ahead of you - and with ...
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| need help w/baby conure | 1/29/2009 |
Q: I just got a little g/c conure, about 2 months old. He's just dropped his last feeding of babyfood, ...
A: I understand how you don't want to make him dependent on physical attention and that's a very good ...
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| Terrified budgie! | 1/29/2009 |
Q: I have received a 3 month old female albino parakeet for Christmas this year. I have previously ...
A: Hands are a common fear of caged birds. A hand entering their cage can sometimes launch them into a ...
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| My ekkie thinks I am a perch...all the time! | 1/28/2009 |
Q: I have a one year old ekkie boy that I've had since he was 31/2 months old. I love him to death and ...
A: You need make being somewhere else more of a reward for him than being on you. And make being on ...
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| My bird eye is swollen | 1/28/2009 |
Q: The things is, is that my bird has a swollen eye it tears and it's shut . What should I do ? Should ...
A: Eye redness, swelling, discharge are on the list of signs of illness in our companion birds (look ...
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| AGGRESSIVE/JEALOUS SUN CONURE ?? | 1/28/2009 |
Q: Additionally, although loving, conures tend to choose their "favorite" person in a household. ...
A: We can't change the nature of the animal, but we can modify the behavior if we’re patient. Birds ...
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| Parakeet | 1/28/2009 |
Q: I have 2 parakeets. I just noticed that male's bottom part, where the droppings are, has sort of ...
A: I believe what you're seeing is early signs of a prolapse. The cloaca is also known as the vent ...
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| Handfeeding a conure | 1/27/2009 |
Q: It seems to be going o.k. and gaining weight. Lately he has gotten much more active when i feed ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| Red Fronted Macaw Regurgitation???? | 1/27/2009 |
Q: I have had my macaw for about a week now and he is starting to act really strange.... He will rub my ...
A: Your bird is trying to regurgitate to you as a sign of bonding, submission and perhaps even mating ...
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| I hate this bird | 1/27/2009 |
Q: My husband and I have been married for 5 years. He has a blue and gold and has had him for 15+years. ...
A: Would it help to know that you are not alone? In fact, new people entering the cozy little bonded ...
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| Aggressive behavior | 1/26/2009 |
Q: My blue and gold macaw which we have had about 28 years, over night has become aggressive. Suddenly ...
A: The vet is very likely wrong, but unfortunately it's not uncommon. Even many specifically avian ...
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| Peach faced lovebirds | 1/26/2009 |
Q: late last year our pair of PFLovebirds laid three eggs. None of these were fertilized asafter more ...
A: Splayed Leg/Dislocated hip details can be found here: www.cagenbird.com/splayed_leg.htm and ...
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| lovebirds | 1/25/2009 |
Q: I have a pair of fischer lovebirds, recently a bird of the same flew into the house so I put him/her ...
A: You've done a very good hearted thing by taking in this wayward visitor. Far too many people fall ...
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| worried | 1/25/2009 |
Q: I am looking after my friends parrot as he has gone on holidays for a couple of weeks. The parott ...
A: It sounds like the bird is just afraid or cautious of the new toys. I've found many parrots are ...
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| blue and gold macaw, biting | 1/25/2009 |
Q: I've had this four year old now for about three months and I get beat up everyday. My arms look ...
A: I feel your pain. Literally. I have had plenty of experience with bites like pliers and going to ...
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| new bird not eating | 1/24/2009 |
Q: I brought home a new 6 month old Umbrell cockatoo yesterday.Seems happy except hasn't touched ...
A: It's not uncommon for a bird recently re homed to feel insecure and not be interested in eating. ...
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| Alexandrine skin/feathers | 1/24/2009 |
Q: I have a female alexandrine called Dori, she is nearly 3 ysrs old. Recently she has developed these ...
A: Birds going through a molting season may look ragged and have what appear to be bald spots, but if ...
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| Indian Ringneck behavior | 1/24/2009 |
Q: My 6 month old Indian Ringnec (Mon Ami)does not seem to like other humans. He (or she)bends his head ...
A: We can't change the nature of the animal, but we can modify the behavior if we’re patient. Birds ...
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| Sun Conure | 1/24/2009 |
Q: I am in desperate help. I have a Sun Conure(M)& a Cinamon Conure(F). not knowing I had a couple, on ...
A: First, calm down. These birds have been doing this without any help for thousands of years. ...
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| quaker parrot | 1/23/2009 |
Q: In the past week i got a pair of quaker parrots, a green male and a blue female. The woman i got ...
A: Before you undertake breeding any bird for the first time, let me try to play devil’s advocate with ...
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| Our Orange Winged Amazon | 1/23/2009 |
Q: We have an orange winged amazon named Mikey that we adopted, he is over 10 years old, but we don't ...
A: The cloaca is also known as the vent in a bird, the opening from which both feces and urine exit the ...
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| Alexandirine 30 days old babies | 1/22/2009 |
Q: Rev.Dr,I have brought home a pair of Alexandirine babies.Need advice on the balanced food and time ...
A: I have a very good guideline, including recipes you can make at home and share with your birds ...
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| Parrot Screeching | 1/21/2009 |
Q: I have a Goffin cockatoo less than 2 years old. She is very healthy and I believe happy. She ...
A: When your bird screams and you react, even if you're red in the face, yelling and flailing your arms ...
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| Help | 1/21/2009 |
Q: I know this is for parrots but i just want to make sure my cockatiel is OK. She has been eating her ...
A: If you caught this early enough and there are no symptoms such as going off her food, acting ...
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| Help | 1/20/2009 |
Q: I know this is for parrots but i just want to make sure my cockatiel is OK. She has been eating her ...
A: No, it's not ok that she does that. She can become seriously ill by doing this, so please do ...
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| Patagonian Conure? | 1/19/2009 |
Q: I have been working with birds for over 30 years now, and have worked with just about every species. ...
A: These birds tend to remain as friendly and personable as they start out to be, as long as their ...
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| parrotlet lost his sight | 1/19/2009 |
Q: Dr. August I have a 10 month old blue pacific Parrotlet which has recently gone blind. The vets ...
A: Yes, I have heard of temporary blindness and strokes aren't nearly as common as thought. This ...
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| adoption | 1/18/2009 |
Q: Abbott. About a year and a half ago we found a Quaker parrott, we have named him Uptown after the ...
A: It sounds like you have a very happy flock life as it is. Introducing a new companion is always ...
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| talking parrot | 1/18/2009 |
Q: can you please tell me if parrots have voice box,i got parrot that was neglected,it had pulled all ...
A: Parrots have a syrinx, not a voice box. I'm not at all sure what this previous owner meant by it ...
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| african grey | 1/17/2009 |
Q: i have just bought an African grey and have mojar problems with him biting, every time i try to get ...
A: I'm VERY glad you're determined to make this his last home. The behavior isn't unusual in a ...
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| odd behavior | 1/17/2009 |
Q: we have an austrailian rainbow lorry that we absolutely adore, he is so much fun. One odd thing he ...
A: These birds are, as you say, 'clowns' and they're pretty smart. My first inclination is that ...
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| First Time Bird Owner, HELP! | 1/16/2009 |
Q: Hey People, I am a first time bird owner. Me and my family are thinking of getting a parrot and I'm ...
A: Cockatoos, macaws, Eclectus, or any parrot this size should not be allowed around children under ...
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| Cockatoo | 1/16/2009 |
Q: I just bought a 5 month old female cockatoo. My question is how long should I keep her in the cage ...
A: Not all birds will become screamers - and spoiling a bird is the least we can do to make up for ...
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| blue fronted amazon parrot | 1/15/2009 |
Q: I've recently acquired a blue amazon parrot. He came to me 6 weeks ago from a family who thought ...
A: You're a very good caregiver so stop blaming yourself for changes that are rather normal in these ...
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| How to prevent my parrot's biting ? | 1/14/2009 |
Q: My parrot bites but not furiously !!! he is the yellow naped amazon four months old he don't attack ...
A: Parrots love our company, despite how it may seem otherwise. Their biting is quite often just a show ...
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| Nanday Conure | 1/13/2009 |
Q: We have a Nanday that is about 6 months old. He is a delightful fellow, but still takes a notion to ...
A: You're doing a nice job and congratulations on your new companion. A bite or nip now and then is ...
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| African Grey Questions | 1/13/2009 |
Q: I have a two year old African Grey. I just ogot home and found that she flew off her cage and got ...
A: With the tailfeather loss I believe you're seeing a normal moult. Keep an eye on it though and be ...
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| my Cockatiel | 1/13/2009 |
Q: My Cockatiel doesn't have any health problems & he has settled in nicely to our home we have had him ...
A: The most important thing to start with is removing the grit. Birds with hooked bills do not need ...
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| What to feed my three weeks yellow naped amazon ? | 1/13/2009 |
Q: Dr.s.august abbott ...my question is what to feed my 10 weeks yellow naped amazon i am little bit ...
A: It sounds like it's time to give less food in your feedings. Decreasing the ‘baby food’ while ...
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| sun conures | 1/12/2009 |
Q: my pair of sun conjures have started a new family! only one egg so far. my question is, do i need to ...
A: A female bird who is mating has a hugely increased chance of egg binding (an egg getting stuck). ...
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| Birds Won't Stop Breeding | 1/12/2009 |
Q: Firstly, thank you for all that you do for animals! Your "resume" is outstanding and I hope I can ...
A: Actually, a more confined place might encourage more laying since it would emulate a nesting site. ...
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| Birds Won't Stop Breeding | 1/11/2009 |
Q: Firstly, thank you for all that you do for animals! Your "resume" is outstanding and I hope I can ...
A: You're right to be concerned When a bird lays she’s got a very increased risk for egg binding or ...
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| My Cockatiel | 1/10/2009 |
Q: My Cockatiel is not young but still very spunky. He has had this skin problem for some time now and ...
A: The kind of lice that mammals (dogs, cats, people) get doesn't usually infect birds. The kind of ...
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| hello ! | 1/10/2009 |
Q: hello i bought a baby african grey and i am not sure how to fully look after it h/she is really ...
A: Congratulations on your new addition! This bird, with proper care and regular (at least once a ...
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| Housing different birds together | 1/10/2009 |
Q: I have a cockatiel and am thinking about getting an African Grey. I was wondering if I can house ...
A: It's never a good idea to house two birds together if you want them to be bonded to you. Two ...
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| i just wanted a family bird!!! | 1/9/2009 |
Q: i have recently aquired an 8 year old male galah from a friend of the family's. He has spent the ...
A: This bird has shown amazing cooperation in changing as much as he has already, especially after ...
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| ringneck parakeet | 1/8/2009 |
Q: August my question is why does my ringneck parakeet vomit his food and then eat's it up again, is ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Amazon Parrot Frequent Molt | 1/8/2009 |
Q: My mother owns two parrots; a blue fronted amazon and an african grey. They are both around 25 ...
A: It does sound like these beautiful birds are well cared for. Excessive feather loss is a concern ...
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| Earning Trust | 1/8/2009 |
Q: I just bought a 10 week old lovebird. It was a handfed baby and loves to be on my shoulder and does ...
A: I'm not sure what source indicated you need to touch their wings, but it's not a source I'd trust ...
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| humidity | 1/7/2009 |
Q: What should I keep the humidity in our bird room. We move about a month ago and now live in a ...
A: Very good question. Increasing humidity can be done with a humidifier or to really boost it, put a ...
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| African Greys | 1/7/2009 |
Q: I have an African Grey for 13 years. I was wondering if I bought another one could I keep it in the ...
A: For any birds, even the same species, sharing a cage makes mutual injury a major issue. Far too ...
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| Why is my tiel laying eggs? | 1/7/2009 |
Q: First, I am going to make her a vet appointment. But I can't yet, seeing as how it is 2 am. I have ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| sun conure sex | 1/7/2009 |
Q: We have 2 sun conjures born 7-4-02 & 7-8-02 same parents. One bird gets up to neck and starts ...
A: If the one that's "humping" is moving forward on an object, tail sort of tucked under or to the ...
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| yellow nape amazon claws over grown | 1/6/2009 |
Q: i recently got a yellow nape that was banded in 1987 I'm not sure how old it is my concern is that ...
A: It sounds like this bird didn't come from very good conditions. The first thing you have to do ...
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| beak grinding | 1/6/2009 |
Q: When my Macaw, Blue and Gold, is resting she grinds her beak, is this anything to be concerned ...
A: Actually, this is a good thing. Beak grinding when everything else is fine and the bird is calm, ...
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| Weaning lovebird? | 1/6/2009 |
Q: I have a 10 week old cobalt masked lovebird which I am struggling to wean off his hand rearing mix. ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| taming wild green cheek conures | 1/5/2009 |
Q: i just bought 2 green cheek conures about 12 weeks old from an aviary, they are very scared and run ...
A: The most important thing you need to arm yourself with is patience. Look at it this way, if you ...
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| excessive fall of feather | 1/5/2009 |
Q: I have a pet Rose Ringed Parakeet(Indian)for last seven years .It started excessive picking of ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| blue and gold health concern | 1/5/2009 |
Q: I have a 15 yr blue and gold macaw that over the past several years has appeared to be in her sexual ...
A: What to be watching for is happening right now. Egg binding is when an egg doesn’t exit the female ...
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| umbrella cockatoos | 1/4/2009 |
Q: I'm thinking about getting a cockatoo and I was wondering if they need vet visits or what types of ...
A: While many birds can be purchased relatively inexpensively, like $10 parakeets or a few hundred ...
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| orange winged amazon | 1/4/2009 |
Q: Charlie, my orange winged amazon, just died after suffering from a tumor inside his mouth area. I ...
A: I'm truly sorry for your loss. I know how devastating it can be to lose a family member like this ...
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| What may you think it is? | 1/3/2009 |
Q: a young couple brought in this bird they found ( see attched photo) to the pet store i work at ...
A: This does appear to be a male, which means you're likely to find him using words more than you ...
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| Macaw and a mirror | 1/3/2009 |
Q: I have a blue and gold macaw. He is 3.5 years old. He is my only pet. Recenty I put a mirror on the ...
A: As long as he still interacts normally with you and you continue to be the main focus in his life, ...
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| Indian Ringneck Parrot | 1/2/2009 |
Q: I am thinking to purchase an Indian Ringneck parrot from a woman who raises them here. They are ...
A: Good question Paul and yes, you're right, a pair will be more difficult to tame and bond to you. ...
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| LOVE BIRD Behavior | 1/2/2009 |
Q: Our female lovebird,Beauty is showing a behavior that we feel is frustration. She seems to become ...
A: You are absolutely right that this is mating behavior. She doesn't need a partner, but she really ...
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| Baby Catalina Macaw | 1/2/2009 |
Q: I am about to purchase a baby Catalina macaw. The problem is that the breeder has decided to stop ...
A: I understand exactly how you feel. It's scary! Tell me a little more about how they're feeding ...
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| Night time Sleep | 1/2/2009 |
Q: Should we cover our Quaker's cage at night before we go to sleep.
A: Yes. In fact, establishing a separate "sleep cage" is a good idea. A smaller cage with just the ...
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| disease transmittal to human | 1/1/2009 |
Q: I have a severe mini macaw, who is healthy and active. A new member of my household is saying that ...
A: Your bird probably didn't come with psittacosis, so unless your roommate gave it to him, where ...
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| cockateil | 1/1/2009 |
Q: my cockateil drinks a lot and has watery motion can you advise.
A: This is usually a symptom of crop infection or other intestinal problem that will likely respond to ...
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| disease transmittal to human | 1/1/2009 |
Q: I have a severe mini macaw, who is healthy and active. A new member of my household is saying that ...
A: In a word: No. Given your description there is virtually no chance of cross contamination, even ...
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| BABY LOVEBIRD BALDING | 12/31/2008 |
Q: I've had a lot of baby lovebirds, but there's only one that hatched in this brood. He was coming ...
A: It’s not something we see everyday, but sometimes a parent (or even both parents) will begin feather ...
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| african greys | 12/31/2008 |
Q: ! and i was so caught up in looking for them that i didint know anything about them now i know how ...
A: There's a great deal of info about overall bird care all in one place, with pics here: ...
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| •••what would give a bird diarrhea••• | 12/30/2008 |
Q: Kokopelli is an almost 16 y/o blue and gold, who was raised by smokers and cats and lots of kids in ...
A: First, let me commend you on your excellent care of Koko and doing so many right things. Now ...
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| YELLOW HEADED AMAZON | 12/30/2008 |
Q: My husband has bonded really well with our Yellow Headed Amazon. She loves him. I think that ...
A: You're not entirely wrong about these birds tending toward picking one mate, in the wild. ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 12/30/2008 |
Q: 4 weeks ago got a macaw that was a rehome. She is 3 yrs old and didn't get handled much I notice ...
A: This action is often a submissive or nurturing behavior that is undertaken to find favor with their ...
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| Yellow-Headed Amazon | 12/29/2008 |
Q: Greetings Our Yellow-Headed Amazon which we have had for two years appears to have a blocked nose ...
A: Vitamin A deficiency is a rather common condition. Vitamin A is most ideally received from ...
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| care and feed 4 week old love birds parents abanded | 12/29/2008 |
Q: what do i need to feed them. I have them sleeping in a towel on my chest to stay warm. I was told to ...
A: Weaning ages vary depending on the type of bird. Your lovies aren't terribly young so this is ...
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| what is a good bird for my brother | 12/28/2008 |
Q: I have a 10 year-old brother who really wants a bird.He really likes to play with his pets & ever ...
A: For a ten year old - you'll be better off with a medium sized bird that can't remove fingers when ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 12/28/2008 |
Q: 4 weeks ago got a macaw that was a rehome. She is 3 yrs old and didn't get handled much I notice ...
A: The best trainer is you. It's a myth that anyone else can train a bird for you. There are plenty ...
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| Severe macaw behaviour | 12/27/2008 |
Q: What does it mean when my macaw Dadgie is playing with me and he takes his beak and scrapes my hand ...
A: When it comes to many birds, especially parrots, communicating a wealth of information to each ...
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| Weaning a B&G macaw | 12/19/2008 |
Q: I've had my macaw since she is 3 weeks old, she was hatched on July 20th, 2008. I obviously handfed ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| Umbrella Cockatoo | 12/19/2008 |
Q: We have an Umbrella Cockatoo. We think she is a female of about 4 years old. She is amazing, we ...
A: You are doing an absolutely fantastic job with this truly blessed bird. Everything from feeding to ...
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| feathers | 12/19/2008 |
Q: My lilac crested conure has a spot above his beak that has no feathers--it is not raw and there is ...
A: Excellent picture, thank you for including it. There is certainly a moult happening, but I also see ...
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| quaker biting feet and screaming | 12/17/2008 |
Q: my quaker parrot,who is about 4 years old, and i have owned for about 9 months, has recently started ...
A: The first step would be to have a vet do a hands on exam and either evaluate the feet under a ...
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| allergic to my parrot | 12/17/2008 |
Q: please help. my husband thinks he is allergic to our african grey. we have had him 10 weeks now ...
A: It's not uncommon for people to be allergic to Greys, they are a pretty high dander bird. ...
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| new bird and old aviary | 12/17/2008 |
Q: I have acquired a parrot as someone near to me can no longer keep it. I have an old empty aviary . I ...
A: Parrots, like most birds, sleep about 12 hours (or should) plus take little naps throughout the ...
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| Yellow-headed Amazon | 12/17/2008 |
Q: Excuse my ignorance, but do both female and male parrots masturbate? We are not sure of the sex of ...
A: Yes, both sexes masturbate. A female tends to lift her tail and back up to an object or perch; a ...
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| sevier mccaw | 12/17/2008 |
Q: we adopted or rescued a 6 yr. old sever macaw 3 yrs. ago, he spent most of his life in a closed ...
A: I'm very glad you have this little macaw. It's very sad to know that people are so irresponsible ...
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| my bird is aggresive | 12/16/2008 |
Q: It bites and is afraide of me what should i do.
A: A baby like this probably isn't aggressive as much as it is afraid. There are a few easy steps to ...
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| cockatiel eyesight | 12/15/2008 |
Q: my cockatiel is over 10 years of age - i leave his door open and he spends most of the time on top ...
A: In a way, yes. Parrots (cockatiels are also 'parrots') roost at night, so they have very poor night ...
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| unfertilized egg | 12/15/2008 |
Q: 3 wks ago we started putting a piece of newspaper in the bottom of my 7 year old sun conure's ...
A: What you're seeing is a very serious situation Sammie. You've described it very well. The ...
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| sexing sun conures | 12/14/2008 |
Q: Can you provide the name of a company that will sex a sun conure from feather samples please
A: Yes, http://healthgene.com/Avian I strongly recommend against using a blood feather to send in as ...
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| biting, lunging and screaming | 12/14/2008 |
Q: My bird has always been a little bit of a biter but not to hard except for my dad. My dad gets home ...
A: When the bird bites, it’s getting feedback that it likes and that's why they continues. It might be ...
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| Pet Parrot | 12/13/2008 |
Q: Why does my pet parrot reach for my hand with his feet and hold my hand while he is in his cage?
A: Parrots are very intelligent and loving birds. Your bird wants your company - and probably wants ...
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| unfertilized egg | 12/13/2008 |
Q: 3 wks ago we started putting a piece of newspaper in the bottom of my 7 year old sun conure's ...
A: She should abandon the egg on her own after 3 to 4 weeks, give or take a few days. You can also ...
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| new lovebird | 12/13/2008 |
Q: i just got a young lovebird for my birthday 2 days ago, bought from petshop (we live in a small town ...
A: Yes, it could be a normal reaction to the stress of a move from familiar surroundings to a new ...
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| strange budgie behaviour | 12/12/2008 |
Q: i have just bought a male budgie, and he keeps rubbing his bum against things when he is taken out ...
A: It sounds like your bird is displaying mating behavior. Birds don’t actually go into a ‘heat’, ...
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| biting, lunging and screaming | 12/12/2008 |
Q: My bird has always been a little bit of a biter but not to hard except for my dad. My dad gets home ...
A: Birds are flock animals and part of their nature is to greet each other, especially during certain ...
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| friends lovebird died | 12/12/2008 |
Q: Abbott, One of my housemates lovebirds died this afternoon. Denise wants to know if the mate (he's a ...
A: What a good friend you are! While birds like this do tend to bond for what can be a lifetime, birds ...
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| unfertilized egg | 12/11/2008 |
Q: 3 wks ago we started putting a piece of newspaper in the bottom of my 7 year old sun conure's ...
A: Yes, you should stop giving her nesting material (the newspaper) No, it won't traumatize her if ...
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| mitred conure sick | 12/10/2008 |
Q: I have a 12 year old mitred conure. He has never been sick. Today my daughter (we are away) found ...
A: I'm very sorry for your loss. Your vet is absolutely right about birds being masters at hiding ...
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| mitred conure sick | 12/9/2008 |
Q: I have a 12 year old mitred conure. He has never been sick. Today my daughter (we are away) found ...
A: Seeing a vet is an excellent idea and shows how responsible you are, so I commend you for that. ...
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| Rescued cockatiel with splayed leg | 12/8/2008 |
Q: I have recently rescued a cockatiel with a badly splayed leg. She is 8 years old and has been like ...
A: The best option for her is to keep her perches low, especially for nighttime. A rope perch can ...
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| Sun Conure | 12/8/2008 |
Q: I am thinking about purchasing a 4-6 month Sun Conure from a rescue. It doesn't appear that this ...
A: A young bird like this is a very good candidate for turning around from not being handled much to ...
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| my female Indian Ringneck parrot | 12/7/2008 |
Q: tonight she is opening her mouth but not making a sound...it is a little scary to me because it is ...
A: The crop is the pouch-like area where food the bird eats first goes to slowly enter the rest of the ...
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| my female Indian Ringneck parrot | 12/7/2008 |
Q: tonight she is opening her mouth but not making a sound...it is a little scary to me because it is ...
A: It sounds like she's doing some crop adjusting. When this is done enough to notice, chances are ...
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| female eclectus maturing | 12/6/2008 |
Q: I have a female eclectus parrot that is laying her first eggs. She is about 2 years old, and laid 3 ...
A: A clutch will usually consist of 2 eggs, up to 4. When a bird lays more than this, it's ...
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| My cockatiel | 12/6/2008 |
Q: My cockatiel won't stop YELLING!!! She has been yelling for 3 days!! She has food, water, toys, a ...
A: You're doing a very good job with the sleep hours. 12 hours nighttime and 12 hours daytime is ...
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| Scarlet Macaw not eating | 12/4/2008 |
Q: I found your site here looking for some help with a new adoption. I went and picked up a 5 1/2 yr ...
A: Let's try to take this one step at a time ok. First, the pinfeathers are perfectly normal for now. ...
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| Is my cockatoo making me sick? | 12/3/2008 |
Q: I have an Umbrella cockatoo, I have had her for 1 year. I have been getting sick-vomiting for about ...
A: Cockatoos are probably the most intensely allergen causing of all pet birds. the being sick and ...
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| Amazon losing nare hairs | 12/3/2008 |
Q: I have an almost 4 year old yellow naped Amazon. He's been with me since he was 7n weeks old and ...
A: The location of the feather loss is of the most concern and unfortunately is usually indicative of ...
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| Molting | 12/2/2008 |
Q: How can you tell if a bird is molting?
A: Birds going through a molting season may look ragged and have what appear to be bald spots, but if ...
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| Unknown Cause of Runny Nares - Amazon Parrot | 12/2/2008 |
Q: I have a Red Lored Amazon Parrot. We recently adopted her in October. When we brought her home, we ...
A: You've done ALL the right things and I commend you for that. Now, let's approach this from an ...
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| Quaker Wheezing/Sneezing after 2 vet trips | 12/1/2008 |
Q: Our Quaker parrot, Bubba, had nasal discharge and sneezing about 6 months ago. We took her/him to ...
A: That's a very prudent question about the potential for mold, but I haven't found any problems over ...
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| Quaker Wheezing/Sneezing after 2 vet trips | 11/30/2008 |
Q: Our Quaker parrot, Bubba, had nasal discharge and sneezing about 6 months ago. We took her/him to ...
A: Anitibiotics can be very effective when a bacteria is diagnosed and the appropriate med given. What ...
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| my cockatoo | 11/30/2008 |
Q: i have a cockatoo about 6 months old and she seems to have seizures.But she crops her head and her ...
A: It's probably neither. This is perfectly normal "freezing" behavior for any bird, and most ...
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| Big Bird... 3 1/2 y/o Hahns | 11/29/2008 |
Q: First, I want to say thanks for taking time to read my question(s) and second, I love your website; ...
A: It sounds like your Hahns is being a bird. It will be pretty impossible to correct that. Sort of ...
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| is my bird sick? | 11/28/2008 |
Q: I gave my mother a 5 month old African Grey yesterday. She tells me today he has apparent mucous in ...
A: Is there any color to this mucous? Any persistent sneezing, fluffing up, going to the bottom of ...
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| lovebirds mating | 11/28/2008 |
Q: I recently adopted a pair of lovebirds from the humane society. I have had parakeets but never ...
A: By not giving a nesting box it will help prevent laying, so that's a very good idea. If she does ...
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| Maroon Bellied Conure -draft? | 11/27/2008 |
Q: The front door to my house blew open this afternoon during a period of heavy snow/wind. The bird ...
A: All those tales of drafts being deadly are greatly exaggerated. There are a few reasons this ...
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| lovebirds mating | 11/26/2008 |
Q: I recently adopted a pair of lovebirds from the humane society. I have had parakeets but never ...
A: It's normal in that any pair of birds are likely to do what birds do. Before you undertake ...
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| African Grey | 11/26/2008 |
Q: Here is my firstCan they get worms because Roxy eats like a pig when I put 1/2 apple on a stick in ...
A: Worms come from ingesting the worm eggs or larvae, usually carried in infected droppings or on ...
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| Too many eggs | 11/26/2008 |
Q: I have an umbrella cockatoo which is approx. 11 years old. She keeps laying eggs. One on Easter, ...
A: It's very wise of you to suspect that this isn't a good thing. When a bird lays she’s got a ...
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| pain med for my double yellow head parrot | 11/25/2008 |
Q: My wonderful bird has a long time hip injury. He is on Medicam and it seems to not be helping any ...
A: You're doing all the right things. I know it's just awful to see a bird in need and not be able to ...
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| Salmon Crested Cockatoo dying | 11/25/2008 |
Q: my slamon crested cockatoo has been really weird lately he has fallen off of his perch and alos he ...
A: As unusual as it may sound, when a bird loses it’s balance, it could be the result of an internal ...
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| Feather plucking | 11/25/2008 |
Q: My ring neck has almost completely plucked himself, his wings and tail are the only places he has ...
A: Not a likely cause of plucking, airborne toxicities (such as CO2/carbon dioxide or gas) would lend ...
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| runny droppings | 11/24/2008 |
Q: i have a cockatiel n it is single. since the past week there is excess of urine in its poop. Also it ...
A: It's not really unusual for a 'tiel, or any bird, to drink a lot at certain times. In their ...
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| Macaw | 11/24/2008 |
Q: I have managed to locate a vet to take her to to have her checked over and I was wondering if you ...
A: You can either secure your bird in a travel carrier made for birds (which will have a perch firmly ...
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| Jardine and Lovebird | 11/24/2008 |
Q: Abbott. I would appreciate a few words of wisdom on the following situation. 5 years ago I got a ...
A: First, I'm deeply sorry for your loss. I understand how devastating it can be to lose a loved ...
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| Cage bound | 11/24/2008 |
Q: I have an african grey that will be 2 in dec. I aquired him in February 2008 when my son decided he ...
A: The first and most important thing is to trust YOUR instincts ok? I will do my best to help you ...
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| African Grey beak | 11/23/2008 |
Q: My parrot's beak seems to have a crack on top, almost looks like a new beak growing under the old ...
A: Most birds will maintain the shape and health of their beaks by rubbing them on appropriate ...
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| runny droppings | 11/23/2008 |
Q: i have a cockatiel n it is single. since the past week there is excess of urine in its poop. Also it ...
A: I think you're right - it sounds like female behavior. All bird droppings are made up of three ...
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| Feather plucking | 11/22/2008 |
Q: My ring neck has almost completely plucked himself, his wings and tail are the only places he has ...
A: The claims of those non-plucking sprays are about as real as the 'lose weight fast' pills for ...
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| Conure laying eggs AGAIN | 11/20/2008 |
Q: My conure started laying eggs a while ago. It was a big surprise especially as I thought she was a ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| African Grey Parrott | 11/18/2008 |
Q: Do some parrots never speak? We adopted an African gray from someone who could no longer take care ...
A: Some parrots will never cooperate and say words, even though they have the capability. However, ...
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| I want to tame my African Grey | 11/18/2008 |
Q: "Hi, I've got an african grey of about 4 years old. When i first got him he didn't even have ...
A: Yes - you can. He's got another 50+ years ahead of him - and they are always learning. What ...
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| Macaw Decibel Level and Infants | 11/17/2008 |
Q: My father has a macaw that tends to squawk quite loudly. He keeps it in cage in the room where we ...
A: I understand your concerns and made sure I double checked my info before getting back to you. ...
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| yellownape amazon | 11/17/2008 |
Q: I have a 2 year old yellownape who adores me. He's a great talker, showoff, singer, clown etc. He ...
A: I think a lot of people use that as an excuse rather than make some extra efforts. It's nice to see ...
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| sunconre that bites | 11/16/2008 |
Q: I rescued a 6 year old conure that was being kept locked in a room by its self with no inter action ...
A: What a BEAUTIFUL bird and wonderful thing you're doing. You're very right that Moo likely has ...
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| rescue parrot won't perch | 11/16/2008 |
Q: I just adopted a rescue bird 5 days ago. He is a Moluccan Cockatoo, approx 6-7 years old. He was ...
A: It sounds like this lucky bird found a perfect home and I'll be glad to work with you on this. I ...
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| bald spot | 11/16/2008 |
Q: i have 2 young african grey parotts they are male and female aprox. 7 months ols very cuddly but the ...
A: Nutritional modifications can be found here, including home made recipes you can share with your ...
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| bald spot | 11/15/2008 |
Q: i have 2 young african grey parotts they are male and female aprox. 7 months ols very cuddly but the ...
A: At this age and this time of year, you're probably seeing moulting. The good news is that you're ...
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| Parrot Itching in Anus area | 11/15/2008 |
Q: I have Medium Sulfur Crested Cockatoo; and since few years he as a itching problem; he normally pull ...
A: The cloaca is also known as the vent in a bird, the opening from which both feces and urine exit the ...
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| weaning ringneck parrots | 11/14/2008 |
Q: what is the general age for a baby ringneck parrot to start eating seed? and how do i go about ...
A: You're doing very well and weaning slowly is a good idea. This is an appropriate time. When it’s ...
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| Blue crowned conure over preening tail feathers | 11/14/2008 |
Q: I have a 5 month old blue crowned concure who seems to be molting. What concerns me is that he has ...
A: He's very young and you have him on a very good diet. At this point just keep an eye on this, but ...
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| Quaker Poop | 11/13/2008 |
Q: My quaker parrot Pepe has been pooping a dark green to black poop for the last week or so. His poop ...
A: I'm with you Jennifer. I'd be concerned too. I'm not thinking fatty liver disease as much as ...
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| parakeet eggs | 11/13/2008 |
Q: I have two females and one male. they were all in the same cage, have been for about 2 years. the ...
A: the male should help the female incubate the egg, but since he's been separated, keep a close eye ...
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| feeding parrot cat food?? | 11/13/2008 |
Q: Can you feed your parrot cat food?? I was told it is the same as the bird pellets..and is good for ...
A: This isn't true and thank you so much for asking first! Good job! Just because it looks the ...
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| Parrot Eggs | 11/12/2008 |
Q: week before my small parrot layed 2 eggs withing 4 days .After 3 days she lays the 2 eggs the male ...
A: If these eggs haven't been nested or brooded for a couple of days, they are not viable. You can ...
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| how do I get my conure on a pellet diet? | 11/11/2008 |
Q: How can I get my 10 yr. old sun conure on a pellet diet? He (not sure if he or she) refuses any ...
A: It’s not easy for some birds to make the conversion, but quite often that’s because their owner is ...
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| African Grey | 11/11/2008 |
Q: I brought my baby african grey home on 08.08.08. He was 12 weeks old. He is starting to try and ...
A: This is not really unusual behavior in a bird this young. He's finding out how much he can ...
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| Senegal Parrot Behaviour | 11/11/2008 |
Q: we recently adopted a new family member named Herculeasa, a 4 month old Senegal Parrot. I have ...
A: I know exactly what you're feeling about the peanuts. One of the most respected suppliers of bird ...
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| Senegal Parrot Behaviour | 11/11/2008 |
Q: we recently adopted a new family member named Herculeasa, a 4 month old Senegal Parrot. I have ...
A: Isn't she just wonderful? It appears she's already bonded with you, which is why she comes to you ...
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| my quaker | 11/11/2008 |
Q: Tonight when I got home from work my little quaker didn't look right, when I picked him up in my ...
A: When your bird starts to act ‘off’, chances are it’s been ill for quite a lot longer than you ...
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| MaCaw | 11/10/2008 |
Q: I have a Blue/Gold MaCaw 7 years of age.He has been a very good and behaved bird always until 2 or 3 ...
A: A sudden behavioral change like this is of concern and speaking from experience, yes, you need to ...
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| African Grey | 11/10/2008 |
Q: My buddy boy is a one year old male African Grey. he has lost all the little white feathers around ...
A: You've got some very keen observations and it could be the key in an uncomplicated resolution. ...
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| B&G macaw behavior's | 11/10/2008 |
Q: I have recently recieved "Mikey" as an early christmas gift..I did that by giving my husband "puppy ...
A: I probably won't get to all of your questions specifically, but overall, yes, it sounds like he's ...
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| maturing parrot | 11/10/2008 |
Q: i have a female double-yellow headed amazon parrot that is 5 yrs old and was wondering at what age ...
A: At five years old she's plenty old enough to have begun laying. This isn't anything you really ...
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| Blindness in a Congo grey | 11/9/2008 |
Q: All my various parrots are re-homes, bar one, and they come to me with various problems which both ...
A: I can't give you enough praise for all of your efforts for this bird. What a fantastic and truly ...
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| lovebird | 11/8/2008 |
Q: what could this mean?
A: I'll bet you pay attention when he does this. Birds learn quickly to do things that get ...
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| poisonous nut? | 11/8/2008 |
Q: I have 4 solomon isle eclectus and 2 african greys. i would like to know if hickory nuts, black ...
A: but hardly worth the effort. Eclectus find them especially hard nuts to crack and to be honest, ...
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| My African Grey Parrot Moulting | 11/6/2008 |
Q: I have had my African Grey Parrot now for nearly 5 years. in the couple of months, she has been ...
A: Your pics came through perfectly. I only answer questions, have no idea how the site works when ...
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| baby conure | 11/5/2008 |
Q: have a baby pineapple conure that is just getting it's feathers. I am syringe feeding it and all is ...
A: At 4 weeks this bird is too young to wean. The weaning will probably begin more at 8 weeks with ...
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| My African Grey Parrot Moulting | 11/5/2008 |
Q: I have had my African Grey Parrot now for nearly 5 years. in the couple of months, she has been ...
A: You're right, it doesn't look like a normal moult and thank you for the picture, it's very helpful. ...
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| screaming cockatoo | 11/4/2008 |
Q: I recently gave a 15 year old umbrella cockatoo a home. His previous owner passed away. He is very ...
A: I give rescued and resigned birds new homes all the time; many of them either are surrendered ...
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| galah cockatoo behaviour change | 11/3/2008 |
Q: I have a galah that used to like to crawl into my robe, and he wont let me pet him anymore at all. ...
A: You're not the only owner who has suddenly discovered a bird may be fickle. Scruffy may also be, ...
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| sneezing blue and gold macaw | 11/3/2008 |
Q: My 3 year old b&g started sneezing like a week ago she has no nasal discharge and is eating. I took ...
A: There are quite a few possible causes of sneezing with a bird. Rhinitis (inflammation of the ...
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| Lovebird regurgitating food | 11/2/2008 |
Q: i Have a female love bird which we found outside and have had for 4 years now. She does a weird ...
A: Birds don’t actually go into a ‘heat’, but they sure do engage in some similar behaviors once ...
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| my african gray could he affect my health | 11/2/2008 |
Q: i suffer with c o p d and pleural thickening, after working with astobs
A: I'm afraid he could. Allergic alveolitis is a problem bird keepers might encounter in ...
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| what is a good age to get a quaker parrot? | 11/1/2008 |
Q: i'v been researching for a while, and have decided that a quaker is the right bird for me..my only ...
A: You might be surprised to learn that any aged bird can be taught to 'not bite' in most cases. ...
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| plucking | 11/1/2008 |
Q: why is an older 15-18 years cockatoo plucking his feathers off his tummy and legs
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| parakeet | 10/31/2008 |
Q: my one year old budgie is squeking when he breathes. It sounds like he is wheezeing. Is there ...
A: There is a type of mite that a wide range of birds may be infected with, called Air Sac Mites. ...
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| Odd behavior, what does it mean? | 10/31/2008 |
Q: I was just given a 12 year old brown headed Amazon parrot. I have owned a sun conure for over 6 ...
A: More and more I'm very happy that this bird is now with you. I feel you're doing all the right ...
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| Rescued Amazon... | 10/30/2008 |
Q: I have a few questions about a yellow nape amazon that I rescued/adopted on Monday 10-27-08. The ...
A: You're doing a very good job. This is one truly lucky bird and I'm sure you'll continue to see ...
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| Odd behavior, what does it mean? | 10/30/2008 |
Q: I was just given a 12 year old brown headed Amazon parrot. I have owned a sun conure for over 6 ...
A: The behavior you're describing is far more frequently seen in baby birds, but is also seen in birds ...
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| Romeo Red Belly Parrot | 10/30/2008 |
Q: this morning 10-29-08 I took my parrot Romeo out of his cag he is hand fed, we were laughing and ...
A: Sometimes there is absolutely no rhyme or reason for what we see as very odd behavior. It could be ...
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| stop feather plucking | 10/29/2008 |
Q: Is there a homemade spray I can make to stop feather plucking. I have an African Gray, and none of ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
|
| Indian Ringneck coloring & feeding | 10/29/2008 |
Q: I bought my baby IR when he was (I was told) 4wks old,he is now almost 10wks (if the age is ...
A: The coloration shouldn't be contributing to the difficulties you're seeing. So that's the good ...
|
| outside temp | 10/28/2008 |
Q: what is the outside temperature (of the home) that a blue and gold macaw can tolerate?
A: Macaws are tropical rainforest birds. The lowest temp they can tolerate is about 70-72 degrees F ...
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| Quaker parrott diet | 10/28/2008 |
Q: I have a 6 year old Quaker that i don't feel is getting the best diet. I give her Kaytee Fusion for ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| red lored | 10/28/2008 |
Q: I have a beautiful red lored, the problem is,she i believe its a she, she will bite everyone almost ...
A: To be very honest, with children this young I don't blame you in considering re homing your bird. ...
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| dog fleas on parrot | 10/27/2008 |
Q: can dog/cat fleas affect parrots?
A: The "possibility" exists that a flea might find an opportunity to take a bite of a parrot, but the ...
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| Mixing | 10/27/2008 |
Q: I have been a bird fanatic for many years and am planning on creating my own haven/aviary. The past ...
A: What climate are you in? Are you hoping to establish a rescue or sanctuary (they are ...
|
| Agrican grey-training to step up and is bitting | 10/27/2008 |
Q: I received an African grey, approximately 12-15 yrs old, lived with an eldery lady who could not ...
A: The ‘step-up’ command is the single, most important instruction you need to teach your bird. The ...
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| Parrot regurgitation | 10/26/2008 |
Q: I have a re-homed 14 yr old Catalina macaw who we can not handle. He eats constantly, regurgitates ...
A: Tell me more about his history and how long he's been with you. How is he kept now ? Daytime ...
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| red lored | 10/26/2008 |
Q: I have a beautiful red lored, the problem is,she i believe its a she, she will bite everyone almost ...
A: How long have you had her? Admittedly, a bird like this around small kids isn't usually a ...
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| ring necked parrot behavior | 10/25/2008 |
Q: I have a 1 1/2 y.o ring necked parrot and he is just now walking toward me in his cage, says cracker ...
A: I'm glad to see you've kept your sense of humor. Let's give this relationship another try, but ...
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| Male or Female make a better pet? | 10/25/2008 |
Q: Purchesed a bird with the option of returning if it was male,got the results and it is a male,it is ...
A: A macaw at this age doesn't know that it's a boy or a girl. Your bird won't really begin ...
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| peeking feathers off | 10/25/2008 |
Q: my parrot started peeking his feathers at first. but i thought it was normal to do it. but i started ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
|
| ring necked parrot behavior | 10/24/2008 |
Q: I have a 1 1/2 y.o ring necked parrot and he is just now walking toward me in his cage, says cracker ...
A: Yes, you are doing the right thing by leaving the area. Silent treatment is very effective; ...
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| Darren our sun conure | 10/23/2008 |
Q: Recently we have bought Darren, he is a 4 month old sun conure. He has adapted well in our house, ...
A: You're right, the beak grinding in the circumstances you've described is a sign of contentment and ...
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| Indian Ringneck | 10/22/2008 |
Q: I've got a 2 year old Indian Ringneck male. He use to stay with me but then my baby girl was born. ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Meyers Parrot with Green Cheek Conure | 10/22/2008 |
Q: I have a little 5-year-old female Meyers Parrot which I got from a bird-rescue facility. She's a ...
A: Oh, I don't think you'll have any problem with this. Just by being aware of it, you're already ...
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| screaming senegal | 10/22/2008 |
Q: my male senegal is 6years old and has become very loud and mean mostly loud he screams all the ...
A: When your bird screams and you react, even if you're red in the face, yelling and flailing your ...
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| my nipping macaw | 10/21/2008 |
Q: i got a hahns macaw last week he comes to me goes on my head etc takes food drink from me but thn ...
A: biting is quite often actually ‘beaking’, a way that they show of attention, an interaction that's ...
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| Meyers Parrot with Green Cheek Conure | 10/21/2008 |
Q: I have a little 5-year-old female Meyers Parrot which I got from a bird-rescue facility. She's a ...
A: If you have a multiple number of parrots, whether a budgie/parakeet or big macaw, I strongly suggest ...
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| Biting Snapping Q&A | 10/20/2008 |
Q: What does it mean when a cockatiel is Biting or snapping at you???? Does it mean anything if your ...
A: When your bird starts to act ‘off’, chances are it’s been ill for quite a lot longer than you ...
|
| rosella parrakeet | 10/18/2008 |
Q: i have a male parrakeet, and i have noticed that he pushes the top of his beak against objects, do ...
A: You're right - I think this is just something he's doing because for whatever reason, he likes it. ...
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| MY BABY LOVEBIRD | 10/18/2008 |
Q: I'm getting a baby lovebird (4 weeks) and i was wondering since i don't have a walk in aviary and ...
A: somehow I read it as 14 weeks rather than 4 weeks. Yes, this little baby should probably be in ...
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| MY BABY LOVEBIRD | 10/17/2008 |
Q: I'm getting a baby lovebird (4 weeks) and i was wondering since i don't have a walk in aviary and ...
A: Cage! Moving a bird into a new cage can sometimes be very difficult when the bird is frightened. ...
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| falling grey | 10/16/2008 |
Q: Jano is a TAG that lives with us for over 20 years. The parrot had a previous owner, so it is ...
A: I was sort of suspecting he was on a mostly seed diet. Now I'll give you some surprising info that ...
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| feather discoloration | 10/16/2008 |
Q: I have a greenwing macaw and three eclectus whose feathers have a yellowing on some feathers. My ...
A: Given the care and exposure to natural light, I'm at a loss. The only option I see is to have a ...
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| feather discoloration | 10/16/2008 |
Q: I have a greenwing macaw and three eclectus whose feathers have a yellowing on some feathers. My ...
A: The first thing I suspect when it comes to feather problems is nutrition, but it sounds like you're ...
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| Annabelle my grey | 10/13/2008 |
Q: Annabelle is two years old, and appears to be healthy , last week I took her to the vet for her ...
A: You're doing fine. Okra is good, peppers are wonderful too. The kinds of seeds that should be ...
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| African Grey | 10/12/2008 |
Q: I have an Africa Grey that is 13 years old. I have never had it sexed. Do both sexes build nests? ...
A: Yes, for the most part, both sexes will build nests. Knowing the sex of the bird is important ...
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| nasal odor | 10/11/2008 |
Q: I have a lovebird which have bought nearly 2weeks. on first 3 days it seemed to have respiratory ...
A: In a word, "no". The reason is that you really, really need to have the type of infection ...
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| Cockatoo Having Seizures | 10/10/2008 |
Q: We have a 10-year-old cockatoo who has been having seizures for 3-4 months now. He had an infection ...
A: Birds are not immune from having seizures. A seizure is caused by a paroxysmal, uncontrolled ...
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| nasal odor | 10/10/2008 |
Q: I have a lovebird which have bought nearly 2weeks. on first 3 days it seemed to have respiratory ...
A: Rhinitis (inflammation of the nares/nostrils). There would likely be a nasal discharge involved ...
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| My Parrots behavior problems | 10/9/2008 |
Q: We have a 16 year old Miligold Macaw who over the past few months has become very unmanageable. He ...
A: It's good that the DNA sexing was done, it's very valuable in at least eliminating the possibility ...
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| my african grey Daisy | 10/8/2008 |
Q: so sorry to bother you but my african grey got a little scared off some balloons today whilst in her ...
A: It's very normal for a bird to be frightened by anything bigger and above them like a balloon or ...
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| cricket | 10/7/2008 |
Q: My pet Green Cheek Conure is refusing to eat his vegtables and fruits. I just got him a few weeks ...
A: Be persistent, don't fight or force it and most of all, be creative! Try a spoon of natural ...
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| BLUE & GOLD MACAW | 10/7/2008 |
Q: I have been told that to find out what sex my bird is I would have to take to a vet. I was just ...
A: Knowing the sex of the bird is important because females need more calcium, especially if they begin ...
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| We just got a parot | 10/6/2008 |
Q: My husband is having allergies like crazy to the bird. Is there anything I can do to help cut down ...
A: They molt all the time, but a couple times a year it's a big molt. The big molt should be coming ...
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| Sun Conure | 10/6/2008 |
Q: I purchased my Sun Christmas of 2007. I was told she was under one yr old. It is now Oct 2008 and I ...
A: Is her cage big enough to fully turn around with her wings open without touching any sides or the ...
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| she laid an egg! | 10/5/2008 |
Q: We have a female White Cockatoo, about 20 years old. She has lived with us for 12 years. No ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| Sun Conure | 10/5/2008 |
Q: I purchased my Sun Christmas of 2007. I was told she was under one yr old. It is now Oct 2008 and I ...
A: Well, let's start all over with her. You're feeding very well, though I'd like to see more ...
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| 4/5 week old Indian Ringneck | 10/5/2008 |
Q: I have an Indian Ringneck baby who is currently spoon fed on formula. He has most of his feathers, ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| 6 week old blue and gold macaw | 10/5/2008 |
Q: WE HAD A 6 WEEK OLD BLUE AND GOLD MACAW, I WAS HAND FEEDING IT, FROM THE VERY FIRST DAY WE GOT HIM ...
A: Yes - absolutely get this bird to a vet. You'll need a genetic/DNA screening done. For things ...
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| 6 week old blue and gold macaw | 10/4/2008 |
Q: WE HAD A 6 WEEK OLD BLUE AND GOLD MACAW, I WAS HAND FEEDING IT, FROM THE VERY FIRST DAY WE GOT HIM ...
A: Oh I'm so very sorry for what you've gone through. Just hearing this upset me, so I can imagine how ...
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| lovebird | 10/4/2008 |
Q: alright well I got a baby handfed lovebird about 3 weeks ago. I've tried to just let it settle in. ...
A: You might want to re-start this relationship as if it's brand new. The first thing necessary is to ...
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| separating conures | 10/4/2008 |
Q: I aquired two conures together, I believe are both males. One is a jenday and the other is a sun. ...
A: You're quite right, birds that are allowed to share a cage will often not be as human bonded as ...
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| Traveling | 10/3/2008 |
Q: I recently bought a green cheeked conure around 1 year old. I am supposed to be going away for 2 ...
A: Take him with you. The stress of being left alone for even one 24 hour period can bring on all ...
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| We just got a parot | 10/3/2008 |
Q: My husband is having allergies like crazy to the bird. Is there anything I can do to help cut down ...
A: An air cleaner is a good choice for bird friendly homes, but be sure it’s a true HEPA system rather ...
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| baby blue crowned conure | 10/3/2008 |
Q: I recently purchased a 14 wk old blue crowned conure. He's sweet and affectionate. He is mostly ...
A: Yes - sounds perfectly normal. The wing lift is to try to put you under it (isn't that nice?), to ...
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| Our Congo African Grey parrot | 10/2/2008 |
Q: We got our african grey 2 weeks ago.He is 7 years old,and has a really good bond with me already.He ...
A: Here is the outline I follow and have all of my foster caregivers follow when a new bird enters a ...
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| Weather | 10/1/2008 |
Q: I would like to know about Amazonsregulating to cold weathr. I adopted a 10 yr old Blue Front in ...
A: You're right to be concerned about the temp. These birds are tropical birds and really shouldn't ...
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| african gray diet | 10/1/2008 |
Q: my gray likes to share a bowl of cereal with me and likes to drink the milk, (skim) can birds digest ...
A: Good question and I think I can help. Birds cannot digest dairy (no lactose); however, natural ...
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| feather picking | 10/1/2008 |
Q: Why does my african grey pick out most of his feathers from his neck and chest?
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| My Parrots behavior problems | 9/30/2008 |
Q: We have a 16 year old Miligold Macaw who over the past few months has become very unmanageable. He ...
A: I'm very glad you sent the pic. Samba is a very well cared for macaw and you don't want to re home ...
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| Egg Laying | 9/30/2008 |
Q: Can a male African Grey Parrot lay an egg? I've had my Timneh African Grey Parrot for 12 years and ...
A: Sure is a surprise isn't it? He's a she (no, males cannot lay eggs). Egg laying is something that ...
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| Determine Age of Orange Wing Amazon | 9/29/2008 |
Q: Our local pet store has an Orange Wing Amazon for sale. The parrot was found in someone's front ...
A: There are really just two extremes generally noticeable in the age of most birds: The very young ...
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| parrotlets | 9/28/2008 |
Q: I have a baby that just came out of the nest box a couple of day ago, now the parents seem to be ...
A: Natural weaning occurs at different times for different species, but in all birds the parents will ...
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| Baby Green Cheeked Conure | 9/26/2008 |
Q: I recently just bought a baby GCC from a reputable breeder near me. She's still weaning from ...
A: It does sound like she's trying to wean. When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, ...
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| Parrots | 9/26/2008 |
Q: I have a Green cheeked conure and meyer's parrot. Both are sneezing. I recently turned on my heat. I ...
A: There are two possible sources of causation in the new carpet and of course your hubby. The glue ...
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| Meyers Parrot | 9/25/2008 |
Q: We have a Meyer's Parrot named Tommy and I am hoping you can give me a few tips. He is a great bird ...
A: I just love meeting owners like you. An involved observer who really wants to learn to speak "bird", ...
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| Parrots | 9/25/2008 |
Q: I have a Green cheeked conure and meyer's parrot. Both are sneezing. I recently turned on my heat. I ...
A: Good question! Did your birds have any discharge when sneezing? Any color to it or clear? Do ...
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| African Grey Parrots Mating | 9/25/2008 |
Q: I have a male and female that have bread in the past. Thier owner died and took them. I have had ...
A: I'm really glad you want to provide the best life. I hope I didn't really scare you (well, maybe a ...
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| Unexpected egg | 9/23/2008 |
Q: I've had my two lovebirds for a little over a year. They have been engaging in mating lately, and ...
A: I'm sorry for the delay - computer problems found me offline while having repairs over the last ...
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| African Grey Parrots Mating | 9/23/2008 |
Q: I have a male and female that have bread in the past. Thier owner died and took them. I have had ...
A: Before you undertake breeding any bird for the first time, let me try to play devil’s advocate with ...
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| cockatoo - hormonal behavior | 9/23/2008 |
Q: Sally, our female cockatoo, is usually very happy,content and always treated like part of the ...
A: The hormonal behavior is triggered by longer daylight hours, even if it's artificial daylight --- ...
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| Blue Headed Parrot | 9/22/2008 |
Q: I bought a blue headed parrot, from a store in Colorado. I what to known what the sex of the bird ...
A: the first thing I do whenever I take in a bird or consult with someone who hasn't had this done is ...
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| Meyers Parrot | 9/22/2008 |
Q: We have a Meyer's Parrot named Tommy and I am hoping you can give me a few tips. He is a great bird ...
A: it sounds like this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Understanding bird behaviors is ...
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| Biting TAG | 9/19/2008 |
Q: Abbott, I have a 1yr-and-10-month-old female Timney Grey who has just started to bite. At first, she ...
A: You've got this pretty well diagnosed Gus. You're right about the territorialism (nesting) and her ...
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| 5-year-old Meyers Parrot | 9/19/2008 |
Q: I have a little 5-year old Female Meyers parrot who would be on my shoulder most of the time if I ...
A: I'd rather you ask every question you have, whenever you have them, than just guess and possibly be ...
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| 5 week old indian ringneck | 9/18/2008 |
Q: Hi have a 5 week old baby Indian ringneck ( will be 6 weeks on Monday 22/9/2008) Brought him when ...
A: It's just about time to start weaning, though it's not quite there yet. When it’s time to wean a ...
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| 2 macaws | 9/18/2008 |
Q: How do I introduce another macaw to the one I already have? The first one I adopted is only 16 weeks ...
A: When a new bird is brought into an established flock environment, even if it’s just you and one ...
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| 5-year-old Meyers Parrot | 9/18/2008 |
Q: I have a little 5-year old Female Meyers parrot who would be on my shoulder most of the time if I ...
A: I really do understand. I also think you'd be a good home for a second bird. Just opt for the ...
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| Ernie our Macaw | 9/17/2008 |
Q: When I got Ernie up this morning he sneezed a couple of times and I noticed clear moisture in his ...
A: Our blue & gold macaw (Sadie) has this condition flare up twice a year during high pollen counts. ...
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| 5-year-old Meyers Parrot | 9/17/2008 |
Q: I have a little 5-year old Female Meyers parrot who would be on my shoulder most of the time if I ...
A: If you want company for your little Jill, feel free; however, please just let them share a room and ...
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| lesser sulphur crested cockatoos | 9/17/2008 |
Q: I have a few questions that I would like to ask firstly is there any specific fruits and vegetables ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| Sun Conure behavior | 9/16/2008 |
Q: Reverend. We have a 6-month-old Sun Conure who seems to be happy, affectionate and sociable, but ...
A: I'm glad you're concerned, which indicates you care a great deal, but let's hope there's no cause ...
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| lovebird laying eggs | 9/10/2008 |
Q: the female went down and laid her eggs. they should have hatched over a week ago but i have not ...
A: At this point, yes, pull them. I think it's a good idea to leave eggs until due date, maybe a few ...
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| feather plucking | 9/9/2008 |
Q: my blue crowned conure its picking his feathers out on his underbelly and screeching while doing it, ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Indian Ringnecks | 9/9/2008 |
Q: I'm hand rearing two ring necks,they are about 2 months old now. I'm feeding them three times a day ...
A: The weight you're aiming for is about 115 grams (give or take). If you're going to regularly ...
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| Indian Ringnecks | 9/8/2008 |
Q: I'm hand rearing two ring necks,they are about 2 months old now. I'm feeding them three times a day ...
A: I believe what your advisor meant was a 'nest box'. You can use a commercial type available at ...
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| quaker parrot 6 wks old | 9/8/2008 |
Q: hand held weaned and lovable quaker parrot have had only 5 days. just started to bob head and ...
A: Perfectly normal, natural baby bird behavior. This is what gets the parents attention when they're ...
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| Parrott | 9/7/2008 |
Q: In the past I was taking my parrot to a breeder to cut his nails, they are not available and his ...
A: Clipping birds’ nails can be pretty traumatizing. The bird usually gets through it fine, but some ...
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| macaw eggs | 9/7/2008 |
Q: my family and i have discussed getting a macaw as a pet. We have looked for advice regarding the ...
A: You rarely get what you pay for, many of those suppliers are nowhere to be found once they have your ...
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| Encouraging Breeding Cockatiels | 9/7/2008 |
Q: We got a pair of Cockatiels from a family who's children moved out, no one was left to give ...
A: The behavior you're describing with the female's leg sounds more like she's done more than her share ...
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| quaker parrot w/eggs | 9/6/2008 |
Q: my quaker has been laying eggs. i am puzzled as to why she has somehow "stuck" them onto her chest ...
A: The possible way she's effected this very unusual behavior is if the eggs are cracked or broken. I ...
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| Blue & Gold Mcaw | 9/5/2008 |
Q: Was givien a BG that is 16yrs old from a woman that no longer could keep him. I visited them first ...
A: As sad as it sounds, your B&G's story isn't that unusual. One of my most successful rescues is a ...
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| Scarlet Macaw | 9/5/2008 |
Q: I purchased a Scarlet Macaw about a week ago. I was told the bird is about a year old. When I first ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| parrots | 9/4/2008 |
Q: can i paint my parrot to change his color
A: The only paints I use anywhere in my home or habitat are (human) child safe. That means they don’t ...
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| Warming up to me? | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I recently bought an Indian Ring neck and she was living in the pet shop for 2 years. I've had her ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| Safflower seeds | 9/2/2008 |
Q: Can you please tell me if safflower seeds are bad for my parrot and if so how muchis too much? He ...
A: :) You're not poisoning your parrot. I wouldn't let him have all he wants of Safflower seeds, ...
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| ME | 9/2/2008 |
Q: DO AFRICAN NOW WHAT THEY MEAN WHEN THAY TALK TO YOU?
A: To some extent, yes. For instance, they can learn to identify "water" and they know what it means ...
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| Itchy Lovebird | 9/1/2008 |
Q: We noticed my Peach faced lovebird Peaches had chewed a raw spot toward the top of his wing and took ...
A: That amount of a supplement can be rubbed on the side of her beak with your finger (it'll get in ...
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| Hand-rearing a monk parakeet | 8/31/2008 |
Q: Three weeks ago I bought from a pet shop a baby monk parakeet ( cotorra cata) which they reckoned, ...
A: This is perfectly normal. A plateau tends to occur around this age at this time (weaning). It ...
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| african grey | 8/31/2008 |
Q: i have a 14 week old african grey parrot. he drank alot of water then a few minutes later had about ...
A: OK, what might surprise you is that he's not sleeping nearly enough. If you get up at 6:30 a.m., ...
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| African Grey feather picking | 8/31/2008 |
Q: It started when I moved him from my livingroom along with 6 other baby birds I had inside when they ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| african grey | 8/29/2008 |
Q: i have a 14 week old african grey parrot. he drank alot of water then a few minutes later had about ...
A: How long have you owned this bird? What kind of food is he usually eating? How is he kept? ...
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| Itchy Lovebird | 8/29/2008 |
Q: We noticed my Peach faced lovebird Peaches had chewed a raw spot toward the top of his wing and took ...
A: Trust YOUR instincts here and stopping the med in the water, especially since it didn't help, would ...
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| My Sun Conure | 8/28/2008 |
Q: my name is mariah and i just got a sun conure from my boyfriend... she is about 12 years old. I cant ...
A: No, conures don't tend to like one sex more than another. The truth is that birds don't know what ...
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| macaw | 8/28/2008 |
Q: i would like to ask you that what is the average weight of a 5 month old ,blue and gold macaw and at ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. Your ...
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| Sun conure and a cat... | 8/28/2008 |
Q: I have a cat (Kit Japanese bobtail precisely) and am about to be the proud owner of an Sun Conure ...
A: You don't need a test. If you have a cat, the cat has this bacteria. It's natural. Cat’s have a ...
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| Gala rubbing head on my face | 8/27/2008 |
Q: I recently bought a Rose Breasted Cockatoo, 2 year old female that loves to sit on my finger bobbing ...
A: When it comes to many birds, especially parrots, communicating a wealth of information to each other ...
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| Blue and Gold Macaw questions | 8/25/2008 |
Q: I recently a week ago rescued a blue and gold macaw from some people. I live in a large apartment ...
A: Wow, Kay you are doing a very good job and you have a lot of excellent insights. Let's just take ...
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| Blue and Gold Macaws | 8/22/2008 |
Q: I have 2 B & G Macaws; Max is 6, I have had him for 3 1/2 years. Up until we brought in the newest ...
A: It's amazing what birds teach us isn't it? You just learned that you were quite enough as a ...
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| Cockatoo Sickness? | 8/22/2008 |
Q: I just bought a cockatoo who is about 6 months old. I've noticed in the evenings that she stiffens ...
A: I'm pretty sure what you're seeing is normal crop adjustment and stretching. It's a pretty ...
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| lovebird | 8/22/2008 |
Q: I recently adopted a lovebird from someone who didn't want her any more. I don't really want to ...
A: As long as they are feeling safe, secure and aren't rushed, there is always that chance. Take ...
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| Ring neck parrot-eggs | 8/22/2008 |
Q: My ring neck parrot has laid an egg and has not been with a mate. What should I do? Should I take ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| Taming my Indian Ring Neck Parakeet | 8/21/2008 |
Q: I have just bought a four month old ring neck - I have had it for one week. It is not tame - and is ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| five year old african grey | 8/19/2008 |
Q: hi am looking to adopt a 5 year old african grey how do i make the move easy as possible for her i ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| avocado toxicity | 8/19/2008 |
Q: My question is this: I know that avocado is toxic to birds but what about avocado oil used in dry ...
A: Dog food with avocado oil is not good for a bird. Surprisingly though, dog food now and then, ...
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| bird protectors | 8/18/2008 |
Q: does a calcium blok play the same role as the cuttlebone and does it keeps the bird's beak timmed? ...
A: The question that came through was about calcium supplements for a bird. I'm not sure what you ...
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| Goffin Cockatoo | 8/18/2008 |
Q: Dr. Abbott I have another problem with Peach's she is so jealous of my boyfriend it isn't funny we ...
A: The thing about birds is that they are as far different from a mammal as an animal can be. ...
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| calcium supplements | 8/18/2008 |
Q: does a calcium blok play the same role as the cuttlebone and does it keeps the bird's beak timmed? ...
A: Good question! Cuttlebone is a preferred method of calcium, but calcium blocks are very good too. ...
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| parrotlet food | 8/17/2008 |
Q: I was reading one of your answers about what to feed a pacific blue parrotlet. you said the best ...
A: That's a common story and at one time there might have been some truth to it. Early formulations, ...
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| lovebird | 8/16/2008 |
Q: I recently adopted a lovebird from someone who didn't want her any more. I don't really want to ...
A: Most parrot owners will have their birds out of cage for no less than 2 hours a day. The average is ...
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| Goffin Cockatoo | 8/16/2008 |
Q: Dr. Abbott I have another problem with Peach's she is so jealous of my boyfriend it isn't funny we ...
A: Unless someone black ever hurt her, she's not likely upset at him for the tone of his skin. A ...
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| cockatiels | 8/16/2008 |
Q: I have 2 cockatiels i thought that 1 was female and the other a male. the one bird(male) has been ...
A: The strange thing about birds is that it's not uncommon for two of the same sex to behave like two ...
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| Love birds & mites | 8/16/2008 |
Q: Does the bird mites spray tread the mites on love birds? How can i prevent my love bird form ...
A: These little spider-like pests can be found on any avian species. They spread through body contact ...
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| Cockatoo strange behaviour | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I have a cockatoo that loves me sometimes and runs in fear at other times. I got her a bit later in ...
A: I never get used to hearing about such awful things when it comes to our beautiful birds. I'm glad ...
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| Cockatoo strange behaviour | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I have a cockatoo that loves me sometimes and runs in fear at other times. I got her a bit later in ...
A: Whenever there's a change in behavior like this, yes, absolutely start with a vet check that ...
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| Goffin Cockatoo | 8/15/2008 |
Q: Dr. Abbott I have another problem with Peach's she is so jealous of my boyfriend it isn't funny we ...
A: When your bird screams and you react, even if you're red in the face, yelling and flailing your arms ...
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| Blue Front Amazon--nutrition | 8/14/2008 |
Q: I have a 20-something-year-old blue front. I keep reading about how blue fronts should not be feed ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| rosey bourke sex | 8/14/2008 |
Q: can I tell the sex of my rosey bourkes without having to have genetic testing done
A: There's what's called surgical sexing (the vet sedates the bird and uses a scope to look inside the ...
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| Amazon Parrot | 8/13/2008 |
Q: I have been asked to take a 20 yr old amazon parrot. My stepfather who owned him passed away and my ...
A: Well, I think we can get the screaching down to a dull roar in time, but will the kids cooperate? I ...
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| would my love bird survive a long life without pelleted diet | 8/13/2008 |
Q: i live in jamaica and im currently planning in having 3 peach face lovebirds but hover the pet store ...
A: You raise very good questions. Even though pellets might look the same, each kind is formulated for ...
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| would my love bird survive a long life without pelleted diet | 8/13/2008 |
Q: i live in jamaica and im currently planning in having 3 peach face lovebirds but hover the pet store ...
A: You can order pelleted diets online for delivery to Jamaica and just about any other country. I ...
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| would my love bird survive a long life without pelleted diet | 8/13/2008 |
Q: i live in jamaica and im currently planning in having 3 peach face lovebirds but hover the pet store ...
A: The surprise to most people is that even in the wild our parrots don't eat a lot of seed. They burn ...
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| Tired Patagonian | 8/12/2008 |
Q: I got a patagonian conure 3 days ago. He is about 3 months old. I noticed once I got him home that ...
A: Yes, when you have him seen tomorrow make sure the vet does a mouth/crop swab, vent swab, blood ...
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| Amazon Parrot | 8/12/2008 |
Q: I have been asked to take a 20 yr old amazon parrot. My stepfather who owned him passed away and my ...
A: Yes. Birds are remarkably flexible and once they are reassured of a new environment with new ...
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| saliva? | 8/12/2008 |
Q: My 5 year old umbrella cockatoo has been rolling around what looks like a thick paste in her mouth. ...
A: It sounds like she's re-eating regurgitation. A bird that bobs its head up and down in a sort ...
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| Baby Quaker | 8/11/2008 |
Q: I hope you can help me. I just bought a young Quaker. He has all his feathes, is hand-trained and ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| african grey diet | 8/10/2008 |
Q: I cant get my 1 1/2 yrs old African gray Timneh off of seeds.... i have tried everything. Please ...
A: Relax. This is a lot easier than you might think. A diet consisting mostly of pelleted food ...
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| Parakeets | 8/9/2008 |
Q: I have two parakeets. But this morning I noticed that one of them was opening and shutting its mouth ...
A: When a bird opens and closes their beaks open (some owners describe this as yawning) they are ...
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| Goffin Cockatoo | 8/9/2008 |
Q: how long is the birds mateing season last the reason is she is trying to have sex with my hand I ...
A: The sleeping is really a regulation of daylight/nighttime. The longer daylight hours triggers ...
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| Goffin Cockatoo | 8/9/2008 |
Q: how long is the birds mateing season last the reason is she is trying to have sex with my hand I ...
A: I think you are doing a wonderful job. If you tend to get up at 7, try putting Peaches to bed at 6 ...
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| Goffin Cockatoo | 8/8/2008 |
Q: how long is the birds mateing season last the reason is she is trying to have sex with my hand I ...
A: There is really no set season. If the bird feels that the environment is conducive to mating, they ...
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| male or female | 8/8/2008 |
Q: I have a african grey the pet shop told me was female ( not that it matters much) . She hates my ...
A: Birds don’t actually go into a ‘heat’, but they sure do engage in some similar behaviors once ...
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| cockatoos | 8/8/2008 |
Q: I have adopted a cockatoo taht was in hanging out in my trees for about three weeks. he would come ...
A: It's not so much that they 'feel' it, but birds are prey animals. As such, they need to be in tune ...
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| cockatoos | 8/7/2008 |
Q: I have adopted a cockatoo taht was in hanging out in my trees for about three weeks. he would come ...
A: Yes, it sounds like this cockatoo has bonded with you and is trying to show it with his own birdy ...
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| Lorikeet | 8/3/2008 |
Q: I have been advised by a vet to rub Voltaren Emulgel on my birds legs and feet. The reason is to try ...
A: I'm relieved to hear that you've been pursuing the right avenues of treatment and that your vet did ...
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| Lorikeet | 8/3/2008 |
Q: I have been advised by a vet to rub Voltaren Emulgel on my birds legs and feet. The reason is to try ...
A: Is it one bird with the leg/foot problem? What has been determined to be the causation of the ...
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| Quaker Parrot | 8/1/2008 |
Q: Help! I'm at my wits end. My girlfriend Ann and I live together and she has a quaker parrot named ...
A: What seems like acts of aggression by many birds isn’t necessarily unusual and you can probably ...
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| training | 8/1/2008 |
Q: ANSWER: You can do this. If not ending up with a completely tame bird, at least ending up with one ...
A: Hold your hand near the cage, as if you're touching it, but out of reach so she can't hurt you. By ...
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| Quaker parrot and cockatiel | 7/31/2008 |
Q: I have had a quaker parrot for the past year.. My daughter wants to bring home a baby Cockatiel next ...
A: When a new bird is brought into an established flock environment, even if it’s just you and one ...
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| training | 7/31/2008 |
Q: Hello recently i have just adopted a 5 year love Fischer lovebird and i want to finger train her ...
A: You can do this. If not ending up with a completely tame bird, at least ending up with one more ...
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| How can I woo my black capped conures? | 7/29/2008 |
Q: I bought Cooper and Kichi, a pair of 2 year old black capped conures from a pet shop a few months ...
A: Don't give up. I have to deal with this type of rescue all the time and you can do it. Start ...
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| Yellow Naped Parrot | 7/26/2008 |
Q: My father has had Duke for 16 years (a victim of Hurricane Andrew) and I have always enjoyed a close ...
A: One thing is for sure, Duke doesn't hate you. Hate is strictly human. Sometimes we can go for ...
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| adopting a macaw | 7/24/2008 |
Q: I will be meeting a six yr. old macaw in a few days that is available for sale. It is his original ...
A: How exciting it must be to be anticipating a new addition to your family like this. At six years ...
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| B & G Macaw - 14 years old | 7/23/2008 |
Q: We have had our macaw since he was 7 months old. He is well trained, spends most of his time out of ...
A: You're right that this behavior after so many years of a pattern of personality is of concern. ...
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| Bird Behavior | 7/23/2008 |
Q: I have a yellow naped amazon named Kiwi that I have had for 6 years. I fed him the last week before ...
A: Kiwi is sexually mature and this does change her personality, especially since she's laid eggs. ...
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| Ringneck with Leg Problems | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I have a female Indian Ringneck which has developed a problem with her legs/feet. It seems to have ...
A: As unusual as it may sound, when a bird loses control of their feet, grasping ability or balance, it ...
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| my parrot not eating | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I have a indian ringneck parrot about 8 weeks old. She used to eat on her own a few days back and ...
A: Time to get creative! I'll work with you on it So much information is flooding the net these days ...
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| parrot safe washable cover for table | 7/20/2008 |
Q: I've built a parrot play stand of PVC pipe, untreated pine perch and a table of unknown wood. I ...
A: A classic, easily disposable medium to cover anything and nearly everything is newspaper. An ...
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| Candles | 7/20/2008 |
Q: I was just given a beautiful Cockatoo by my daughter as a surprise gift! I LOVE him! But I was ...
A: The air purifiers are tricky. I started using the 'HEPA type' versions, which are not 'HEPA' - ...
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| Red lored amazon rescue | 7/20/2008 |
Q: First a bit of background, I am an avid parrot lover and owner and only adopt rescue birds. Several ...
A: I want you to start a bird club in your area and TEACH others how to be patient and learn the bird ...
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| Candles | 7/20/2008 |
Q: I was just given a beautiful Cockatoo by my daughter as a surprise gift! I LOVE him! But I was ...
A: I'm glad you asked about this. Yes, some of these scent systems may release toxins into the air ...
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| Changing cages! | 7/19/2008 |
Q: I have a new larger cage for my 12yr african grey timneh. she is not intrested! please let me know ...
A: Moving a bird into a new cage can sometimes be very difficult when the bird is frightened. One of ...
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| I am doing right? | 7/19/2008 |
Q: I have just bought two African Grey parrots, about three years old, 1male 1female. These beautiful ...
A: You are doing a wonderful job so far. I'll just go over some basics here and you can use what you ...
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| wild cockatiel | 7/19/2008 |
Q: my 11 year old son adopted a wild cockatiel from his summer camp yesterday. i have had cockatiels ...
A: First, take a deep breath and relax. We'll start from scratch with this lucky little rescue and ...
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| Trimming Amazon Parrot nails | 7/18/2008 |
Q: Cookie rufused to go into carrying cage to go get his nails trimmed. We rescued him from a bad ...
A: You're right, Cookie has been traumatized and this poor little thing doesn't need that just for nail ...
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| Parrotlet baby exhibiting strange behavoir | 7/18/2008 |
Q: Abbott My new little 3 month old parrotlet is having a hard time. I have only had him 4 days. This ...
A: I'm happy to support you through 'babyhood' and whatever else you need. It'll probably surprise ...
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| Very timid Parrot (Orange winged Amazon) | 7/18/2008 |
Q: I have a very timid parrot named Pepsi, we got him 8 years ago, and he's always been very timid and ...
A: Parrots are actually much more intelligent than these mammals, recently ranked with apes, ...
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| my sunshine conure | 7/18/2008 |
Q: I did take sunny to the vet. and he said only from what he has read about avacodo being deadly to my ...
A: Avocado toxicity will usually present with signs of irritation, like increased scratching, preening ...
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| yellow nape amazon | 7/17/2008 |
Q: HELLO I HAVE A YELLOW NAPE AMAZON WHO THROWS HIS OR HER FOOD OUT OF ITS BOWL ALL THE TIME I BOUGHT ...
A: Let me reassure you that you're doing the right things. So is Charlie! Throwing food is pretty ...
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| Parrotlet baby exhibiting strange behavoir | 7/17/2008 |
Q: Abbott My new little 3 month old parrotlet is having a hard time. I have only had him 4 days. This ...
A: So far it sounds like you've got this handled well. In that he's just been with you for a few ...
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| Birds face fills with air | 7/16/2008 |
Q: My Amazon has air that collects in the side of his face, it looks like he has a big fat cheek. I ...
A: Most birds have 9 air sacs which are located on both sides of the body starting at about the ...
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| Bare Eyed Cockatoo - rescue bird | 7/16/2008 |
Q: Abbott, We just brought "Londo" home from the local bird rescue. He's a bare eyed cockatoo, age ...
A: I think you're a perfect home for this lucky Too. I commend you for the pumpkin seeds rather than ...
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| Tender toes | 7/16/2008 |
Q: I have three parrots (one myer's parrot and two lovebirds) and all share one cage really only meant ...
A: You should find a lot more info by copying and pasting these into your address bar: ...
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| Tender toes | 7/16/2008 |
Q: I have three parrots (one myer's parrot and two lovebirds) and all share one cage really only meant ...
A: What a beautiful flock it sounds like you have. You might be surprised to learn that your ...
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| Sevier McCaw | 7/15/2008 |
Q: A pet store had him for at least 3 years and could not sell him. They HAD sold him recently and the ...
A: Books are fine, but pictures are better aren't they? I specialize in macaws and am happy to ...
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| Lilac Crowned Amazon | 7/15/2008 |
Q: My husband and I adopted a 3-5 year old lilac crowned amazon a little over 2 weeks ago. We got him ...
A: It's wonderful isn't it, when we discover that we've got a love for a creature like this. What a ...
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| Lovebirds | 7/15/2008 |
Q: For about 1 1/2 years 4 green peach faced lovebirds have been frequenting my backyard and bird ...
A: Nuts! :) To add to their diet that is. A few peanuts here and there, but mostly walnuts, ...
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| first time bird owner | 7/14/2008 |
Q: My aunt has asked me to take her blue and gold because they don't have the time to spend with her. ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| CLIPPING | 7/14/2008 |
Q: I AM SOON GETTING A HAND REARED SENEGAL BABY AND WAS WONDERING IF I SHOULD GET HIS/HERS WINGS ...
A: I am a strong supporter of clipping (we call it 'trimming') - for oh so many reasons! Safety is ...
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| Caique Problem | 7/14/2008 |
Q: I have a question, I hope you can help with. I have a 8 year old white bellied Caique, who I've had ...
A: Oh Susan, it IS sad! He doesn't know you mean well and that this is helping him. I think ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 7/13/2008 |
Q: we have recently bought a blue and gold macaw and she has bald spots and she bites a lot, but she ...
A: OK, I'll try to help with this. The bobbing of the head and description of the food sounds like ...
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| african grey | 7/13/2008 |
Q: my name is nabil i personally didnt intended to have a parrot who happens to be an african grey i ...
A: The beak action sounds normal. Make sure to provide a grooming mineral block or cuttlefish bone in ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 7/12/2008 |
Q: we have recently bought a blue and gold macaw and she has bald spots and she bites a lot, but she ...
A: What are the motions this bird goes through before bringing up the clear liquid? How old is the ...
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| Budgie wont play | 7/11/2008 |
Q: I have had a budgie for about 6 weeks. when i got him, his wings were clipt, he is finger tamed. But ...
A: Approach the cage when the bird is calm. Be slow, keep your movements smooth and don’t raise your ...
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| sun conure | 7/11/2008 |
Q: who is very happy and healthy. He has a good diet of fruit, veg and seed. My concern is his breast ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| Parrot beak wounded | 7/10/2008 |
Q: I have a six months old alexandrine parakeet. Somehow she has hurt herself in the upper beak where ...
A: You care very much for your bird and that's nice to know. She should be fine - birds have ...
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| parakeets,cokatiels,lovebirds,finches | 7/10/2008 |
Q: I live in Las Vegas, NV and keep my birds inside, what is the hottest temperature that parakeets, ...
A: Good for you in keeping them inside. I'm here in California. We hit 110 today with heavy smoke from ...
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| lovebird bonding | 7/9/2008 |
Q: We have had a lovebird for the past two years. I am the one who feeds her, gives her treats and ...
A: There's a level of perception that we humans don't have when it comes to kids. Children, with ...
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| Caique Problem | 7/9/2008 |
Q: I have a question, I hope you can help with. I have a 8 year old white bellied Caique, who I've had ...
A: I love your sense of humor Susan. I know you're serious, but what an amusing way to phrase it. ...
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| Pionus Parrot Behavior problems | 7/9/2008 |
Q: I have a 1-year old Pionus Male whose behavior is getting worse and worse and I can't figure out ...
A: OK, this isn't awful and you can make things right. Let's try starting all over as if he were a ...
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| sun conures fighting | 7/9/2008 |
Q: i have a 3year old female sun conure, and i just purchaseda male. how long should i wait before i ...
A: Before you undertake breeding any bird for the first time, let me try to play devil’s advocate with ...
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| sun conures fighting | 7/9/2008 |
Q: i have a 3year old female sun conure, and i just purchaseda male. how long should i wait before i ...
A: When it comes to indoor cages though, other than with canaries, finches and other ‘straight beaked’ ...
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| Rose Breasted Cockatoo | 7/8/2008 |
Q: My cockatoo has been bleeding lately from his butt. I've had the bird for two years and have never ...
A: When your bird starts to act ‘off’, chances are it’s been ill for quite a lot longer than you ...
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| Caique Problem | 7/8/2008 |
Q: I have a question, I hope you can help with. I have a 8 year old white bellied Caique, who I've ...
A: I completely understand your concern. This isn't unusual at all - including the day (or even two ...
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| Cockatiels | 7/8/2008 |
Q: I have a cockatiel and when I got home from vacation care, I found it under its water bowl. His foot ...
A: A seizure is caused by a paroxysmal, uncontrolled transient electrical discharge in the brain. ...
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| Pet bird | 7/8/2008 |
Q: I have a 5 year old female cockatiel. I am moving to Atlanta to attend college and was wondering if ...
A: I don't think a companion is necessary - you could just put her near a window and leave a good bird ...
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| My budgie isn't acting normal. | 7/7/2008 |
Q: my budgie is acting very confusing. His name is Jake, and I got him from the pet store recently. He ...
A: He's probably scaring himself when he finds himself in some remote position - and you're hearing ...
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| Agressive Meyers Parrot | 7/7/2008 |
Q: I have an approximately 3 to 3.5 years old male Meyers parrot who has become what I believe is ...
A: What seems like sudden acts of aggression by many birds isn’t necessarily unusual and you can ...
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| My budgie isn't acting normal. | 7/6/2008 |
Q: my budgie is acting very confusing. His name is Jake, and I got him from the pet store recently. He ...
A: If you think your budgie is acting confusing, imagine what your budgie is saying about you! It ...
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| Cockatiel mama feather picking babies | 7/6/2008 |
Q: The babies have starting coming out of the nest box and up to this point there feather development ...
A: It’s not something we see everyday, but sometimes a parent (or even both parents) will begin feather ...
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| parrot | 7/5/2008 |
Q: hi ive got a parrot a mini hahns macaw im trying to find someone who can tell me more about them eg ...
A: Sure I can help. Macaws are my specialty ;) This mini macaw has a life expectancy of 45-50+ ...
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| M/F pair layed eggs, inubated 21 days today, now stopped sitting on them?!? | 7/5/2008 |
Q: I have a Male and female pair of cockatiels (i know for a fact they are male and female!) they laid ...
A: I'm sorry you don't have chicks by now, but give it a few more days until you're positive the ...
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| Blue and Gold Macaw | 7/4/2008 |
Q: I just picked up a blue and gold and was wondering about her diet. Do I need to cook the vegetables ...
A: You CAN cook the foods first if that's how the bird will eat them; or give them raw. Sometimes a ...
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| Im taking your advice | 7/4/2008 |
Q: I'm very interested in getting a (green-winged) Macaw, i already talked to a breeder closeby about ...
A: Zahra, I think you should be a bird owner. I believe you are very responsible and loving, as ...
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| African Grey - Egg Laying | 7/4/2008 |
Q: I took in an African Grey from an unwanted home about 3 years ago and we had very little information ...
A: You're doing a very good job so far. Don't worry about the name - some of my favorite birds are a ...
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| parakeet | 7/3/2008 |
Q: my wife and i have just bought an indian ring neck and just wonderd how long should we leave it till ...
A: How nice that you're asking this! Being considerate of his feelings (yes, they have them) and being ...
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| Young Sun Conure | 7/3/2008 |
Q: I have a young female sun conure. She will be turning a year old on August 7. From what I ...
A: You are getting some pretty good information and some, well, not the greatest. It's true that by ...
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| Small Parrots | 7/2/2008 |
Q: I have a male parrotlet and would like to put one or two more small birds in the cage with him. I ...
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. Often the questioner ...
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| Rose Ringed Parrot's Health | 7/2/2008 |
Q: I have a Rose Ringed Indian Parrot since more than 10 years. One year back, I have noticed that some ...
A: Pomagranate seeds are fine Don't forget that many birds get a large amount of their hydration ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 7/2/2008 |
Q: I have a 10 month old blue and gold macaw. I used to keep her in a cage but about a month ago I got ...
A: The open perch is GREAT, but unattended it's not a good idea. There's too much it can get into, ...
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| lovebird layed egg without a male and died after her second egg | 7/1/2008 |
Q: I had a peach-faced yellow lovebird. I bought her when she was just 2 weeks old. I handfed her and ...
A: I'm so very sorry for your loss. Female birds do lay eggs without benefit of a male. Usually ...
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| healthy tiel? | 7/1/2008 |
Q: first off I would like to know how do you sex a tiel? We have what I am very sure is a female. When ...
A: Normal Grey females have minor traces of yellow around the beak/eyes, forehead and their orange ...
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| Goffin behaviour | 7/1/2008 |
Q: not sure if boy or girl. ive had Lakota since he/she was 7 weeks old. recently he started doing ...
A: Don't you just love your little one? There's one thing I always, always tell people about birds, ...
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| adolescent congo african grey problems | 7/1/2008 |
Q: Tucker is 18 month old, purchased from a local breeder and recently vet checked. He was an ...
A: I understand your concerns, but let's be objective. Is what you've been doing working? Since ...
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| adolescent congo african grey problems | 6/30/2008 |
Q: Tucker is 18 month old, purchased from a local breeder and recently vet checked. He was an ...
A: What seems like sudden acts of aggression by many birds isn’t necessarily unusual and you can ...
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| Traveling with a lovebird | 6/30/2008 |
Q: ) and I need to know what to bring him in? should it be a small bird cage or a bird carrier? what ...
A: Road Trips can be fun with preparation. You can either secure your bird in a travel carrier made ...
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| In dilemma | 6/30/2008 |
Q: I'm very interested in getting a (green-winged) Macaw, i already talked to a breeder closeby about ...
A: You're right to be concerned. A macaw scream can be heard up to eight (8) miles away! Eeek! Most ...
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| parrot cacatua inguiry | 6/29/2008 |
Q: my name is lydia and i am writting to you from greece,i have a cacatua parrot named george and i ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| fussy mccaw | 6/29/2008 |
Q: Alani my 9 year old mccaw does not want any kind of birdfood. Loves all our food but i don't know ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| Cockatiel Eggs Hatching (RIGHT NOW) | 6/29/2008 |
Q: I have two cockatiels and four eggs. I have done a lot of research at this point and it seems to me ...
A: I'm really sorry for your losses. It's heartbreaking to lose little ones like this. When it ...
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| yellow indian ring neck parrot | 6/28/2008 |
Q: i have a 4 weeks old indian ring neck chick, he seems quite well, his droping are also well, he is ...
A: Pulling a chick for hand feeding should be done only about 2 weeks before they’ll wean (which means ...
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| love bird | 6/28/2008 |
Q: i bought the love birds from someone else, i love them to death, however the one keeps picking her ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| I think my lorikeet is sick?? | 6/28/2008 |
Q: I have a pet rainbow lorikeet. I am studying away from home at the moment and my bird lives with my ...
A: By the time a bird is noticeably ill, chances are that the problem has been brewing for some time. ...
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| MY LOVEBIRD KIWI | 6/27/2008 |
Q: MY LOVEBIRD STARTED PICKING THE FEATHERS OFF OF THE BACK OF HIS NECK .I DO PLAY WITH HIM ALOT AND ...
A: Some birds start plucking because they have some sort of parasite infestation, either on them or in ...
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| Blue and Gold Macaw | 6/27/2008 |
Q: At what temperatures indoors and outdoors can macaws adapt? I have huge cage outdoor by the house, ...
A: Being tropical rainforest birds it's not suggested a macaw live for any amount of time in less than ...
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| Red Lored Parrot | 6/27/2008 |
Q: I adopted my parrot, Chico about a month ago. He was a rescue bird with some issues. He wasn't ...
A: Poor little Chico has just not had a very good start has he? You most certainly can help him ...
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| Cockatiel Eggs Hatching (RIGHT NOW) | 6/27/2008 |
Q: I have two cockatiels and four eggs. I have done a lot of research at this point and it seems to me ...
A: It sounds like your clutch is "pipping". The parents should be helping in this process. Are they? ...
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| parrotlets | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I'm going to get a parrotlet soon for my dad. he has lots of expereience with birds, but I dont. I ...
A: That is very well put. In a way you really do need an imagination to understand many birds; ...
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| feather problem | 6/25/2008 |
Q: i have a 1 year old indian ringneck parakeet hows feathers keep breaking. his feathers seem to have ...
A: Now and then an owner might notice horizontal bars of dark grey or what looks like colorless areas ...
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| pet health | 6/25/2008 |
Q: i have two pets, a peach faced lovebird and a black masked lovebird( both are about 6 months old), ...
A: From what you're describing they're ok. I think you're seeing a normal, young bird preening. They ...
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| Rose Breasted Cockatoo | 6/25/2008 |
Q: My rose breasted cockatoo seems to be forcing air out of her nostrils. No discharge. Normal ...
A: It's nice to hear from someone who cares this deeply. I commend you for this and hope you keep up ...
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| Rose Breasted Cockatoo | 6/25/2008 |
Q: My rose breasted cockatoo seems to be forcing air out of her nostrils. No discharge. Normal ...
A: You've done a very good job at describing what's going on with this gorgeous bird. Trying to ...
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| Rozella feather plucking | 6/24/2008 |
Q: My Rozella has just started plucking feathers. He originally pulled them out from behind his neck ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Cockatiel vs Rainbow Lorikeet | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I was wondering if you would be able to help me with the question Rainbow Lorikeet V Cockatiel, i ...
A: If I were to play favorites in the bird world, this bird would win every time. Although I love all ...
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| sun conure age and behaviour | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I have a lovely little sun conure which I have had since about Jaunuary this year. We are unsure of ...
A: From your description this little one is still less than a year old. As he/she gets older you'll ...
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| Taming a young cockatiel | 6/24/2008 |
Q: I bought a baby cockatiel from a pet store and brought it home 3 nights ago. The pet store staff had ...
A: How are you trying to touch him? If you are trying to pet him from above his eye level, his ...
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| leg bands | 6/24/2008 |
Q: how do u read the leg bands, we how 2 birds that were gave to us the owner died and the family ...
A: Here are some examples that might help get you started: CAM828 A band like this would denote ...
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| Taming a young cockatiel | 6/23/2008 |
Q: I bought a baby cockatiel from a pet store and brought it home 3 nights ago. The pet store staff had ...
A: If I were to play favorites in the bird world, this bird would win every time. Although I love all ...
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| baby cockatiel's beak problem | 6/23/2008 |
Q: We have recently purchased a lovely baby cockatiel for my daughter from a petland store where it is ...
A: I'm VERY glad you asked this question. Take the bird to the vet who will be treating it in the ...
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| Lorikeet | 6/23/2008 |
Q: Help - I took a rainbow lorikeet off someone's hands for $100. She's 4 yrs old & she won't let me ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| Quaker feather loss | 6/23/2008 |
Q: I recently was given a Quaker parrot. He was found hanging out on a drive way after a huge storm. He ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Baby Quakers Weight | 6/22/2008 |
Q: I currently have a pair of Quakers on 6 eggs. This is not their first clutch, but it is mine. I ...
A: A (weaned) Quaker should weigh between 90 and 150 grams (gram scale is absolutely necesssary for ...
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| cockatiels handfeeding | 6/22/2008 |
Q: My cockatiel pair have 3 babies. They hatched june 9, 10 and 15. The 2 older ones are big enough to ...
A: You have a good idea and it shouldn't be a problem. Keep a close eye on everyone though and ...
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| my jenday | 6/21/2008 |
Q: I just bought a conure. I've known it since it was a little featherless baby and I just brought it ...
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| introducing a male amazon | 6/20/2008 |
Q: my question is this I have a female yellow nape amazon that allows almost anybody to handle her ...
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. In my experience, I ...
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| lovebirds | 6/20/2008 |
Q: i am buying 2 lovebirds hand reared who are a pair. I have heard that there not as attached to you ...
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. My personal ...
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| yeast infection | 6/20/2008 |
Q: I rehomed a 7 yr old orange winged amazon this past October. It's fair to say that he was neglected ...
A: Since you've done all the hard stuff, what I have to add is a breeze! Yeast infections are ...
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| Blue & Gold Plucking | 6/19/2008 |
Q: My blue & gold have a plucking problem, I tried toys, nuts, pluck no more medicine and all my ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| soft shell egg | 6/19/2008 |
Q: My blue and gold bird laid her first egg but it shell was very soft, I don't think nutrition is the ...
A: You're right, it sounds like a very good diet. Soft shells are usually indicative of a calcium ...
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| double yellow headed amozon | 6/18/2008 |
Q: at what age should I start hand feeding my parrot,and how often. And also what kind of fresh food ...
A: Pulling a chick for hand feeding should be done only about 2-3 weeks before they’ll wean (which ...
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| my quaker layed an egg? | 6/18/2008 |
Q: My quaker parrot was recently put together with another quaker, we dont know if it is a male and a ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| Quaker Parrot | 6/18/2008 |
Q: I have a female quaker who is 15 yrs old. she has been laying eggs that are not fertile,so i have to ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| my lovebird | 6/18/2008 |
Q: i found a baby lovebird in my garden yesterday and took him to the vets to make sure that everything ...
A: You're right to be concerned. Let's hope it's just a stress reaction from being lost and ...
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| cockatiel wing bleeding | 6/17/2008 |
Q: I've come across a question that relates quite closely to mine that you also answered See link ...
A: You're absolutely right that he should be seen. Even though the bleeding may be from breaking ...
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| Help Me Keep Them :( | 6/17/2008 |
Q: I have a terrible problem that is threatening to send my two conures to another home. About a year ...
A: The solution will need some patience and an effort, but since without it the outcome will only get ...
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| greenwing macaw skin discoloration | 6/17/2008 |
Q: My three year old male green wing has a greyish discoloration on the skin around one eye. Otherwise ...
A: It sounds like you've got him on a good diet and I'm very glad to hear that. I believe the birdy ...
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| Conure questions | 6/17/2008 |
Q: First here is some background.I have a 2 year old green cheek conure named Connor. We took home 10 ...
A: Absolutely nothing wrong with this. In fact, you're doing all the right things to keep him bonded ...
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| senegal parrot | 6/16/2008 |
Q: ! We have been on hoilday for a week. and are neighbour had are parrot while we were away. since ...
A: Sometimes we can go for years with everything in harmony and working well, then, one mistake leads ...
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| mixing 2 breeds in one cage? | 6/16/2008 |
Q: I'm wondering if I'm able to put a budgie in the same cage as my rock conure. Reason is my parents ...
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. Often the questioner ...
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| african grey parrot always bites | 6/15/2008 |
Q: she intends to bite me flipping sore. I cant even go towards her because she just bites me! Why does ...
A: Frustrating isn't it? When it comes to this very intelligent and interactive bird it's really ...
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| Blue Front Female/Yellow Nape Male | 6/15/2008 |
Q: Rev. Dr. Abbott May the blessings of Almighty God bless and keep you in the palm of His Holy hand! ...
A: Two Amazons of different colorations may mate successfully; just like most varieties of macaws can ...
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| peach face lovebirds | 6/15/2008 |
Q: we are new peach face owners one of our birds has laied eggs only about 3 weeks after we got them ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| norty lorikeet | 6/15/2008 |
Q: i have a 3 1/2 yr old red collar lori, i've had her since she was 10 weeks old and my hubby and i ...
A: What we need to do with this situation is "re-set" the relationship. What is happening is that ...
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| my cocatiel's won' t sit on her egg | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I have 2 cockatiel and 3 days ago i found an egg on the corner of the cage, for the first day one of ...
A: Don't blame yourself for this. Eggs outside of a nestbox with proper preparation don't usually ...
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| b&g macaw | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I have an 8 month old b&g named gracie,she's in good health,just a little underweight(726 grams)any ...
A: The Tropican pellets right? Overall it sounds like she's ideally cared for. You're doing a very ...
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| b&g macaw | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I have an 8 month old b&g named gracie,she's in good health,just a little underweight(726 grams)any ...
A: She is a bit underweight, but she's also young, so let's get a handle on this right from the start ...
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| Blue&Gold agresive by nature | 6/14/2008 |
Q: our 5yr old macaw has been with us only for a week, but i'm noticing a frequent behavior that's got ...
A: In their natural habitat, most hookbills like macaws aren't big seed eaters. They will live on ...
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| Quaker Parrot named Cooper | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I just got Cooper he is 2 years old and he has a biting problem and no training can i still train ...
A: The question is, can he train YOU? Are you willing to learn from him? If you are, then yes, it's ...
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| Bullying | 6/13/2008 |
Q: I got my first baby conure about a year ago. We bonded very nicly and he became very attached to me. ...
A: It's not just personalities, it's species that don't always mix. Then you might see the most odd ...
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| yellow nape amazon | 6/13/2008 |
Q: I have a 17 year old YNA that i have had for about a year we first got him because he took to my ...
A: I'm so glad you've rescued this beautiful bird and yes, you'd be surprised at how forgiving these ...
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| What do I do? | 6/12/2008 |
Q: What do if my male bird died? When should I get another male for the female? What do I do? so please ...
A: Why did the bird die? If there's a disease - bringing another bird in will just result in more ...
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| Blue and gold parrot | 6/12/2008 |
Q: Due to hard times a friend Of mine asked me to care for his parrot. For the 1st 2 weeks the bird was ...
A: I'm appreciative of your efforts for this very lucky bird. I'll do whatever I can to help. My ...
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| Blue and gold parrot | 6/11/2008 |
Q: Due to hard times a friend Of mine asked me to care for his parrot. For the 1st 2 weeks the bird ...
A: you're right that B&G's that have been this well cared for don't usually act out like this. One of ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 6/11/2008 |
Q: I have had a 17 year old blue and gold macaw for one week. I also have a three year old Senegal ...
A: I knew you'd do it! Nice job. The screaming isn't too difficult to address either, although as ...
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| My bird frequently bites | 6/10/2008 |
Q: my name is Jess. My mother works at raine & Horne. She was doing a house inspection when she saw a ...
A: I just love 'tiels! If you listen really carefully when he (or she) opens their beak out of ...
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| sudden behavior change with our theraputic Congo Grey | 6/10/2008 |
Q: We have a very sweet 3 yr old female congo...She has had three homes and has been loved and well ...
A: Which state are you in? I bring my birds and two cats to care facilities, schools, shows, etc ...
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| Peach-faced Lovebird | 6/9/2008 |
Q: I have female peach-faced lovebird. She had babies 5 months ago. After the female lovebird had her ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| finger training | 6/9/2008 |
Q: I've had my cockatiel for 7 months now.He is very sweet but HE DOESN'T LIKE FINGERS, HANDS OR SKIN ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| Stressed Cockatoo; unsure what to do. | 6/9/2008 |
Q: Abbott Some history: I have an umbrella cockatoo named Baretta. While I'm not sure what gender it ...
A: Sometimes we can go for years with everything in harmony and working well, then, one mistake leads ...
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| sudden behavior change with our theraputic Congo Grey | 6/9/2008 |
Q: We have a very sweet 3 yr old female congo...She has had three homes and has been loved and well ...
A: The only way to really get a bird to do what you want it to do, is to change your mind about what ...
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| returning love birds tocage | 6/9/2008 |
Q: Just got two lovely friendly but love- to- bite-fingers birds. My immediate proglem is how to return ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| Traumatized Cockatiel | 6/8/2008 |
Q: Two days ago my cockatiel had a scare and broke a blood feather. As soon as I realized what ...
A: Many times when a bird goes through a stressful event, it may seem to act ‘off’ for a day to several ...
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| My Bird had a runny nose and Bright Green Pooh. | 6/7/2008 |
Q: I have a Yellow Naped Amazon. he is 6 years old now has never had and problems we have been doing a ...
A: It's never a good idea to treat something that's not diagnosed. That's one of the biggest problems ...
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| Picking out feather on the right side. | 6/6/2008 |
Q: My African Grey Parrot will start removing feathers on the right side about Nov. or Dec. But in June ...
A: This sounds like a bird with over-enthusiastic molting going on. Since the feathers all come back ...
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| coprophagia | 6/6/2008 |
Q: One month ago I rescued a 5 YO female Sol Eclectus, diet was Fruit Loops, peanuts, sunflower seeds. ...
A: The major concern is bacteria that might be thriving in it, including: Chlamydia, mycobacteria, ...
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| Wood chewer | 6/6/2008 |
Q: I have a female myer's parrot named Trinity who shares a cage with two lovebirds (they all get ...
A: I'd keep the cage. Of course that's because I collect cages (not to use). By using a different ...
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| Wood chewer | 6/6/2008 |
Q: I have a female myer's parrot named Trinity who shares a cage with two lovebirds (they all get ...
A: I'm hesitant about tossing any bird cage and this one sounds like it's pretty special, hand made ...
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| coprophagia | 6/5/2008 |
Q: One month ago I rescued a 5 YO female Sol Eclectus, diet was Fruit Loops, peanuts, sunflower seeds. ...
A: What a good rescue this is! You've done a fantastic job and are doing everything right (although I ...
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| Wood chewer | 6/5/2008 |
Q: I have a female myer's parrot named Trinity who shares a cage with two lovebirds (they all get ...
A: Hook billed birds need to chew, bite and shred things like wood (natural or ‘dyed’ with food ...
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| Conures laying eggs | 6/5/2008 |
Q: I have had my conure for 10 years and she has just laid her first three eggs. Is it unusual for a ...
A: It's not unusual at all. Sometimes a female will go an entire lifetime without laying; others start ...
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| my lovebirds | 6/5/2008 |
Q: my love bird has a bit of blood on his foot just above the nail . should I be worried about this ? ...
A: There are many causes of leg, foot or toe injuries in our birds and some can result in some ...
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| my sun conure | 6/4/2008 |
Q: she just turned 2 in january a week ago she laid her first egg today a week later laid her 2 egg but ...
A: You haven't mentioned whether or not she's been bred. Egg laying is something that every female ...
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| my conure | 6/4/2008 |
Q: my sun conure is about 3 months old and he suddenly today has gotten really quiet and is going to ...
A: When your bird starts to act ‘off’, chances are it’s been ill for quite a lot longer than you ...
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| Blue & Gold Macaw | 6/3/2008 |
Q: My female macaw was fully flighted and suddenly took off and hit a sliding glass door. It almost ...
A: A stressor like this can change the behavior of a bird for a week or so. If she's not back to her ...
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| Training my weiro | 6/2/2008 |
Q: i have had my weiro, he (i think) for 6months now and i want to teach him how to talk and say names. ...
A: When it comes to teaching a bird to talk, it’s important to start with a bird that actually has this ...
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| my sick parakeet | 6/2/2008 |
Q: We have a parakeet named Chiquita, who just this morning became quite still and her feathers are ...
A: The virus you describe in your puppy won't cross species lines. For the most part you can't catch a ...
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| Kakariki's | 6/2/2008 |
Q: Please can you help. I had a male and female kakariki but the male died. The female started ...
A: Trying to change the nature of the animal is impossible, of course; however, deterring them might ...
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| Rainbow Lorikeet | 6/1/2008 |
Q: I have a female lorri, 4 days ago I came home to find the left leg contracted. It appeared to be ...
A: Nothing beats a hands on exam of course, but for an additional suggestion for your vet to look into ...
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| age of bird | 6/1/2008 |
Q: I live in Mexico, my girlfriend came home the other day with a baby parrot. She bought it from some ...
A: A photo might be very helpful. When it comes to knowing an 'approximate' age, of course ...
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| B&G Macaw | 5/31/2008 |
Q: I have a 3 month old B&G macaw I've had since 5wks old. II live in Miami and am wondering if it's ok ...
A: Absolutely! Be very careful about how you introduce water though because if you frighten your ...
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| MY BIRD HAD 3 EGGS | 5/30/2008 |
Q: MY MACAW HAD 3 EGGS LAST WEEK. ONE OF WHICH BROKE.. SHE IS SITTING ON THE OTHER TWO... I JUST GOT ...
A: The odor may very well be that the eggs are spoiling. If you can find similar sized eggs in a craft ...
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| full flight | 5/30/2008 |
Q: My Green Wing macaw love to fly around my living room ( note 37 foot ceilings. ) However I think I ...
A: My birds are all clipped. There's just too much potential for mistakes or accidents if they're not. ...
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| ring-neck parakeet | 5/30/2008 |
Q: how do you tell the sex of a ring-neck parakeet? mine is green with 1 black ring around his neck and ...
A: The only way to really know the sex of these birds is to have a DNA/genetic blood test. It's not ...
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| dove with unfertile eggs | 5/30/2008 |
Q: Howdy, Thanks for your time.....Sorry to bother you! I have a dove who laid 2 eggs I am wondering ...
A: Good question Mary Grace. Yes, you can crush it and spread it around the ground/bottom, add some to ...
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| Virgil---What Happened? | 5/29/2008 |
Q: Our family parrotlet, Virgil, died in my hands just three hours ago. We are all beside ourselves. He ...
A: I am so very sorry for your loss. What you just went through is a terrible, heart breaking event ...
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| dove with unfertile eggs | 5/29/2008 |
Q: Howdy, Thanks for your time.....Sorry to bother you! I have a dove who laid 2 eggs I am wondering ...
A: No bother, this is what we're here for Egg laying is something that every female bird can do ...
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| blue fronted amazon | 5/29/2008 |
Q: my baby blue front amazon parrot will be home in the end of july. I am aware of what he should be ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| Ringneck | 5/28/2008 |
Q: we got a ringneck 3days ago. She use to belong to another family, they say she is 2years old I'm not ...
A: I'm so glad you mentioned this and have time to change one very dangerous behavior: Feeding a bird ...
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| cockatiel help | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I bought a new 14 week old cockatiel 2 days ago and now he is settled i would like to start taming ...
A: There are a lot of factors involved in successful taming of a bird (of the pet variety). I’ve ...
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| training an alexandrian parrot | 5/28/2008 |
Q: i have a 3 and a half months old alexandrian parrot. i just got it day before yesterday. it bites a ...
A: A bird of any age can be 'trained' as long as it's doing what it wants to do. That's the trick. ...
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| My Sun Conure bites | 5/28/2008 |
Q: To Whom this may concern,i got a sun conure from a flea market,the man told me that i got a male, ...
A: I'm glad you want to do the right thing. Pedro should be vet checked to establish a baseline for ...
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| training an alexandrian parrot | 5/28/2008 |
Q: i have a 3 and a half months old alexandrian parrot. i just got it day before yesterday. it bites a ...
A: Parrots love our company, despite how it may seem otherwise. Their biting is quite often actually ...
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| Quaker parrot | 5/27/2008 |
Q: My Mom's 4 year old quaker started limping a year ago, to the point of not using one leg at all. ...
A: As unusual as it may sound, when a bird loses it’s balance, it could be the result of an internal ...
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| Green Winged Macaw Stool/Sexing | 5/27/2008 |
Q: My two year old green winged macaw (recently flew for the first time across the room to his perch!) ...
A: One day of abnormal droppings (usually appearing too loose or liquid) is not typically an ...
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| Lovebirds | 5/26/2008 |
Q: I have recently been given two lovebirds although i am unsure of what species they are they have ...
A: http://neophytte.mine.nu/photo/2007-02-10-lovebirds/ Copy and paste the above link into your ...
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| affrican grey | 5/26/2008 |
Q: my 1 yr old African grey has stopped talking and is fluffing up her feathers and looking down , she ...
A: I wish I could say 'yes', but birds aren't like people and don't react to depressing weather with ...
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| my parrotlet biting me & very aggressive at times | 5/26/2008 |
Q: "Dear Dr. Abbott, My brother gave me his 3 yr old Parrotlet named Pickles because he could no ...
A: Parrots love our company, despite how it may seem otherwise. Their biting is quite often actually ...
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| Ro-Ro is fluffed Out! | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Ro is an 11 yr old Macaw, I am his 3rd owner (poor thing) he was hand feed by a woman and her family ...
A: Let's see what we can do for this lucky, rescued macaw. Given that there's another 50+ years ahead ...
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| affrican grey | 5/25/2008 |
Q: my 1 yr old African grey has stopped talking and is fluffing up her feathers and looking down , she ...
A: The "eating seeds and nuts" is of concern. When there is too much fat in a bird’s diet, the risk ...
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| why my macaw is screaming only at the night? | 5/24/2008 |
Q: i have 8 months old severe macaw. i just got him 10 days ago. i play with him every time when im at ...
A: I can't imagine why the breeder suggests not covering the cage at night. That's generally ...
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| food | 5/24/2008 |
Q: I keep my yellow headed amazons bowl full with diet food with different assortment in it also i give ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| egg laying | 5/23/2008 |
Q: My 30 yr old Blue & Gold, Ptolome, has started laying eggs again 2- this week she is presently ...
A: Yes, she needs to have more calcium in her diet. Provide plenty of fresh cuttlebone and if ...
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| lovebird health issue | 5/21/2008 |
Q: I have a male lutino peach-faced lovebird.The last weeks is pecking his tails feathers.Sometimes is ...
A: One of the first thing an owner tends to suspect when their bird is plucking is that there’s ...
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| African Grey Beak | 5/20/2008 |
Q: I have notice that the beak on my bird does't look right the botten beak is to the side instead ...
A: Symptoms like you describe, including an overgrown, misaligned or twisted beak commonly occurs when ...
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| pet parakeet | 5/19/2008 |
Q: WI work a preschool and after school care program.... our bird laid an egg over the weekend, I got ...
A: Yes, they need to be removed from the classroom - the stress of the attention of children could ...
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| Lovebirds which lost his partner | 5/19/2008 |
Q: My female lovebird died today and the male lovebird has been left behind. Just want to know if the ...
A: When a new bird is brought into an established flock environment, even if it’s just you and one ...
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| I hope you can HELP!! | 5/18/2008 |
Q: I never considered breeding my blue and gold with my green winged but i guess they have! I have seen ...
A: Egg binding is when an egg doesn’t exit the female bird. Dystocia is the obstruction of oviposition ...
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| Soft spot on ringneck beak | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I have a baby ringneck that is 9 weeks old and she has a discolored (kind of clear) spot on her ...
A: Most birds will maintain the shape and health of their beaks by rubbing them on appropriate ...
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| mxing birds | 5/16/2008 |
Q: i have 2 roseallas,1 goldemantle,1 crismon, i am getting a senegal ,will they be ok in the same cage ...
A: A popular question I get is whether or not two birds can share the same cage. Often the questioner ...
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| small "bump" on Greenwing Macaw Face... | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I have a 5 yr. old Greenwing Macaw, and we have noticed a small (1/4" round) bump on her face, just ...
A: If there is swelling and oozing, a welt-like skin lesion or several, Ulcerative Dermatitis needs to ...
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| Senegal behavior | 5/15/2008 |
Q: We have a very healthy 2 1/2 yr. old Senegal. Just went for his yearly check-up to our awesome avian ...
A: Stoney could still be a 'he'. Both parents will nurture the nest and care for the eggs and chicks, ...
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| RUNNY NOSED PARROT | 5/15/2008 |
Q: Our yellow headed Amazon Parrot sneezes sometimes a couple of times a day and occasionally she has a ...
A: There are quite a few possible causes of sneezing with a bird. Rhinitis (inflammation of the ...
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| quaker wont talk | 5/15/2008 |
Q: i have a 2 year old quaker, and all he says is step up, and love you. he mocks my laugh and all my ...
A: Sometimes a bird just doesn't talk. I often don't really notice because they still have their own ...
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| alexandrian parakeet | 5/15/2008 |
Q: my alexandrian keeps scratching his head and is making it bald its as if its really itchy and ...
A: You might be surprised to learn that whatever you've used for mites could have made a simple ...
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| SICK MCCAW | 5/15/2008 |
Q: ABOUT A YEAR AGO OUR BLUE AND GOLD MCCAW WOKE US UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT SQAUWKING VERY ...
A: This sounds like the result of an all seed - or mostly seed diet. Tumors develop and often ...
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| african grey lovey | 5/14/2008 |
Q: my question to someone out there is my lovey is not acting the same as usual lovey was sleeping most ...
A: By the time a bird is noticeably ill, chances are that the problem has been brewing for some time. ...
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| New Sun Conure | 5/14/2008 |
Q: I have a new sun conure.She came fro a breeder and is approx 3 yrs of age. she is very skiddish and ...
A: When a bird is new to a home you have to be very patient and very careful. It's easy to let them ...
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| African Grey CONGO and TIMNEH | 5/13/2008 |
Q: I have both species of African Grey Parrots in one large cage with a divider currently seperating ...
A: I strongly suggest housing them separately. There are two main reasons for this: 1. By not ...
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| senegal parrot sounds | 5/12/2008 |
Q: /Dr. I have a senegal parrot, he is almost a year old, we bought him when he was 4 months old. I ...
A: Every noise you've described are perfectly normal and common. His morning noise is his way of ...
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| Ring Neck Parrot | 5/12/2008 |
Q: I have a green male and a yellow female Ring Neck Parrot. The female seems to have developed what I ...
A: Most importantly, stop putting anything in the water and never, not ever, trust your bird's life to ...
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| Parrolet picking her feathers | 5/12/2008 |
Q: I am worried about Baby my female parrolet,she has been picking at her feathers these past couple of ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| follicle feather loss on the birds forehead when scraching | 5/11/2008 |
Q: i took the bird to a vet but they came up with nothing to tell me.
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Deciding on WHICH bird | 5/9/2008 |
Q: I do not currently own a bird, but I want one. At first I decided on an Indian Ringneck...they're ...
A: My very favorite first bird would be a cockatiel! Maybe not as dramatic looking as a ringneck or ...
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| what to feed CAG baby | 5/9/2008 |
Q: Waiting for the reply Regards Rehan
A: When it’s time to wean a bird it’s a stressful event, often for both the bird and the human. ...
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| amazon, with cyst like bump | 5/8/2008 |
Q: have a friend with a amazon with a cyst like bump in between the left nostril and left eye, bump, ...
A: Because of the rather high incidence of malignancies, the very moment an owner notices a lump or ...
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| Prolonged molting | 5/8/2008 |
Q: My 8yr. old African Grey has been molting for a long time. Last year I took him to the vet for ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Full crop | 5/7/2008 |
Q: What is wrong when the crop is so full it looks like it is going to pop and it is hard as a rock?
A: This sounds like a crop impaction or crop stasis. Not good either way. One of the biggest threats ...
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| help! | 5/7/2008 |
Q: i just got a blue and gold macaw with a scarlet macaw about two weeks ago i just went to there cage ...
A: If they've bonded before and you've seen them mating, there's a possibility the eggs will be viable. ...
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| GREY LAYED EGGS | 5/7/2008 |
Q: I have a year old grey who lives in our garage designed for her and our 2 McCaws (military and a ...
A: Though it would make for an interesting combo, a macaw and a grey cannot produce offspring. This ...
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| very aggresive behavior | 5/6/2008 |
Q: sorry about the long story.. my bird ivy is about 13 years old. my mother was breeding several ...
A: Would you call a 13 year old human 'older' ? Or would still feel that they're being shaped and ...
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| weiro diet | 5/6/2008 |
Q: What are best foods to add in addition to seeds for a caged weiro
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| Weiro | 5/6/2008 |
Q: When it does poo a lot of clear liquid comes out as well.Bird seems to be okay.
A: All bird droppings are made up of three parts: Faeces (feces), the solid, central part which can ...
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| Should you mate your single lovebird? | 5/5/2008 |
Q: August, I have a female Lutino Lovebird named Daisy, she is 2 1/2 years old. She is the best ...
A: Before you undertake breeding any bird for the first time, let me try to play devil’s advocate with ...
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| plum headed | 5/5/2008 |
Q: I have a plum headed female.I just wanna know what kind of food should i give her.I looked at some ...
A: So much information is flooding the net these days about what to feed a companion bird, whether a ...
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| Senegal Parrot - Behaviour | 5/5/2008 |
Q: My husband and I welcomed to our family a senegal parrot. He was a hand fed little guy and we ...
A: Though there might be nothing more to it than his routine was disturbed when you stayed home (even ...
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| help! | 5/5/2008 |
Q: i just got a blue and gold macaw with a scarlet macaw about two weeks ago i just went to there cage ...
A: OK, first, don't panic. If you haven't removed the egg yet and you don't see any damage to it like ...
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| Senegal Parrot | 5/4/2008 |
Q: I've got a 2 week Senegal parrot but I'm afraid I'm not giving him the right diet! i hand feed my ...
A: If your bird is eating other food as well as from the syringe, that's fine, but if it's only the ...
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| Lovebirds | 5/4/2008 |
Q: Per your profile, I realize that Lovebirds aren't your specialy, however, I believe that my question ...
A: If it's got feathers, it's my area of expertise. I specialize in macaws, but I've cared for ...
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| meeting | 5/3/2008 |
Q: I have 1 female african 16 years old 1 male 18 months and 1 male 2 years how do i go about getting ...
A: A set up of 'free perches' is an option you might want to try. They need 'out of cage' time ...
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| Macaw pecking | 5/2/2008 |
Q: I have a WONDERFUL scarlet Macaw. She is 9mos old and I have had her for 4 mos. She is very ...
A: You were clear and I apologize for not being more brief. You see, I encourage people to touch the ...
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| Macaw pecking | 5/1/2008 |
Q: I have a WONDERFUL scarlet Macaw. She is 9mos old and I have had her for 4 mos. She is very ...
A: When it comes to many birds, especially parrots, communicating a wealth of information to each other ...
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| my parrots beak | 5/1/2008 |
Q: ive noticed a little chip in my african grey's beak. i dont know how he done it, will it grow back? ...
A: A chip may be the result of over-enthusiasm when biting on a toy or piece of wood, but still, it's ...
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| Cockatiel's wing problems | 5/1/2008 |
Q: I have a 17 year old Cockatiel. He never had any problems, and in the past 6 months he developed ...
A: Xanthomas must be suspected when the skin is dimpled, thickened (as with many of the other ...
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| Jenday Conure behaviour | 5/1/2008 |
Q: My Jenday conure "Jaydee" has now for the past 3 days been playing underneath his cage lining. ...
A: Once again you're making very intelligent choices by not listening to advice that your own instincts ...
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| parrot egg hatching | 5/1/2008 |
Q: my parrot laid an egg.the egg is of very small size.what is the size of egg? how many days will the ...
A: The size the egg comes out is the size it stays. If you notice the birds taking turns sitting ...
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| Jenday Conure behaviour | 4/30/2008 |
Q: My Jenday conure "Jaydee" has now for the past 3 days been playing underneath his cage lining. ...
A: I always tell clients to trust their own instincts. No one knows your bird like you do. If you ...
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| my senegal doesnt talk | 4/29/2008 |
Q: my Petey is now 15 years old and he doesn't talk at all. He mimics every little sound he hears, ...
A: It's hard to know for sure whether one day Petey will decide he has something to say, but as you've ...
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| Jenday Conure behaviour | 4/29/2008 |
Q: My Jenday conure "Jaydee" has now for the past 3 days been playing underneath his cage lining. ...
A: I'm so glad you asked this question! Many people would just accept the out of the ordinary ...
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| Taking my Senegal Parrot outside | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I have a Senegal Parrot (Alfie) and he has his wings trimmed, he is very well behaved and tamed and ...
A: It's wonderful that you're so involved with Alfie that you take him out and I'm very happy to learn ...
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| Yellow Headed Amazon | 4/29/2008 |
Q: Greetings Our yellow headed Amazon has been masturbating since mid January. 3 1/2 months. Far too ...
A: One popular question is from people who have never seen a sexually mature bird begin mating ...
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| Behavior on Parrot | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I have an orange wing amazon whose name is Lilu. Lilu is a male, he was given to me by my mother ...
A: Aggression may occur in a mature parrot, but can be curbed with some reasonable steps. For the ...
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| feather plucking | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I have a 10 year old quaker thats pulling out his feathers this is not a normal molt.He also shakes ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I have had a 17 year old blue and gold macaw for one week. I also have a three year old Senegal ...
A: Yes, I've seen this before. One of my permanent residents is a blue&gold who has equally 'strange' ...
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| eggs | 4/26/2008 |
Q: my new quaker keeps laying eggs with no mail in site.What can I do?????? I realize she can lose ...
A: Just like chickens don't need a Rooster - all other female birds will lay eggs as well if the ...
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| my ringneck eggs | 4/26/2008 |
Q: my ringneck eggs wher laid 26 days ago and have still not hached but the mother is still on them ...
A: Egg laying is not healthy and shouldn’t be ignored. All steps you can take to stop this behavior ...
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| Introducing a Grey to a new cage | 4/25/2008 |
Q: I was wondering if you could offer me some suggestions on the matter of how to best introduce my ...
A: You're doing a great job Gus! Forgive me for reiterating some of the things you've already tried, ...
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| macaw | 4/25/2008 |
Q: i have a male macaw i think i would like to know why he keeps biting iv had him for 11 weeks now he ...
A: Parrots love our company, despite how it may seem otherwise. Their biting is quite often just a show ...
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| amazon parrot | 4/25/2008 |
Q: my amazon parrot has just started losing feathers just in one wing.
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| parrot | 4/25/2008 |
Q: hello i have a green parrot i am from pakistan it layed an egg like days but does not sit on it at ...
A: Egg laying is something that every female bird can do without benefit of male birds. Of course eggs ...
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| cockatoo | 4/24/2008 |
Q: Sir I have an umbrella cockatoo that I rescued in Bahrain. Unfortuneately she has feather problems, ...
A: Once organic/physical cause is relatively ruled out, you can try to modify the behavior with various ...
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| Lovebird having difficulty flying | 4/24/2008 |
Q: I have a 14 year old lovebird. In the past few days she is having difficulty flying. She doesn't ...
A: There is no doubt that requires a trip to a vet who knows birds. Sometimes a problem with egg ...
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| laying egg | 4/23/2008 |
Q: My 20 year old macaw is acting strangely. She is holding her tail and squatting and grunting. She ...
A: Egg binding is when an egg doesn’t exit the female bird. Dystocia is the obstruction of ...
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| sun conure feathers | 4/22/2008 |
Q: We have had our sun conure since she was born, she is 8 years old now. She is heathly and happy. My ...
A: Is there any possibility she's flapping and damaging them in or on her cage/environment? If ...
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| sun conure feathers | 4/22/2008 |
Q: We have had our sun conure since she was born, she is 8 years old now. She is heathly and happy. My ...
A: A seed only diet is not very healthy and even in the wild, parrots don't just eat seeds. The ...
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| indian ringneck | 4/22/2008 |
Q: and I'm not sure on how to clip its wings. and also how can i exercise it when its wings have been ...
A: Australia is relatively safe so far; in fact, the whole epidemic seems to be self-controlling ...
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| Budgie with a scab on beak | 4/22/2008 |
Q: I have 4 parakeets and 2 male and 2 females. They were in the same cage and one of my females got ...
A: If you're sure it's just the result of an injury and there is no blockage to the nares (nostrils), ...
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| Indian Ringneck loves me too much | 4/21/2008 |
Q: I recently adopted a male indian ringneck parakeet and thought it was just adorable how he would ...
A: If you add another bird you'll likely lose the ability to interact substantially at all. A bird ...
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| Gray | 4/21/2008 |
Q: My gray is 4 yrs old she had never stopped moulting. I feed her a hard boiled egg, cooked mixed ...
A: Hopefully what you're seeing is a typical major molt - it's the right time of year for it. I'm ...
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| Gray | 4/21/2008 |
Q: My gray is 4 yrs old she had never stopped moulting. I feed her a hard boiled egg, cooked mixed ...
A: Birds constantly shed and replace their feathers, but a couple times a year there's a 'major molt'. ...
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| indian ringneck | 4/20/2008 |
Q: and I'm not sure on how to clip its wings. and also how can i exercise it when its wings have been ...
A: What country do you live in? If you live in the Western hemisphere you have little to no worries ...
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| Cockateil laying first clutch of eggs | 4/19/2008 |
Q: I purchased my first cockatiel last July. She's very tame and we've been able to bond nicely in the ...
A: Egg laying is not healthy and shouldn’t be ignored. All steps you can take to stop this behavior ...
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| layering beak | 4/19/2008 |
Q: i have a jenday conure and his beak seems like is layering at the ends both top and bottom beak he ...
A: Most birds will maintain the shape and health of their beaks by rubbing them on appropriate ...
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| hahns macaw | 4/19/2008 |
Q: which is the better talker? male or female
A: Macaws aren't great talkers in general, no matter what sex. With birds overall, males are usually ...
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| My Quack | 4/19/2008 |
Q: How are u? Just a question about my parrot, she is a 8 month year old bird,on the side of her left ...
A: What an attentive and responsible caregiver you are! Good job! You might be seeing a regular molt ...
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| indian ringneck | 4/19/2008 |
Q: and I'm not sure on how to clip its wings. and also how can i exercise it when its wings have been ...
A: I'm glad you're asking first rather than just trying on your own. For the first wing clipping - ...
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| Stressed Amazon | 4/18/2008 |
Q: I recently had my 14 month old yellow head amazons wing clipped for the second time in her life. She ...
A: I'm so sorry you had such a bad experience. You were doing the right thing and it's unfortunate that ...
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| Tough start with new budgie | 4/17/2008 |
Q: We got our new lutino budgie about 3 weeks ago, at the approximate age of 8 weeks. I did not want to ...
A: The best way is to start at the beginning. I have to respect that you went the extra mile right ...
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| angry old amazon | 4/17/2008 |
Q: the parrot mike's history is that he belonged to my husband's great uncle now passed. then his great ...
A: I have to admire that you're sticking it out with Mike. Does it help to know you're not the only ...
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| eclectus questions | 4/17/2008 |
Q: I have a 15 year old female eclectus who has started sneezing quite a bit usually more in the a.m. ...
A: There are quite a few possible causes of sneezing with a bird. Rhinitis (inflammation of the ...
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| Hair dye and african grey parrots | 4/17/2008 |
Q: Currently i have my hair black and i want to dye my hair once more after i get my hair grown out. ...
A: How very caring of you to be concerned for her before she even gets there. You can dye your hair, ...
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| Breeding | 4/16/2008 |
Q: Is it possible for the two sub species Congo African Grey and Timneh African Grey to successfully ...
A: African Grey Timneh's are a hybrid offspring of this pairing. Hybridizing is highly controversial ...
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| moustache parrots | 4/16/2008 |
Q: I have just purchased a moustache parrot. Is it If the normal for them to have a strong smell.She is ...
A: Good question! Parrots do have a scent to them, especially when they need a bath, shower or misting, ...
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| Bald eyed cockatoo | 4/16/2008 |
Q: My bird has been sneezing like crazy for a few months now and I brushed it off as dry air due to ...
A: Most birds will not take these products and rightly so. I'm always upset to see these things sold ...
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| my cockatiel | 4/15/2008 |
Q: we brought our cockatiel to thr vet this morning and he has told us that nothing is broken only that ...
A: All bird droppings are made up of three parts: Faeces (feces), the solid, central part which can ...
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| My terrible mistake! | 4/14/2008 |
Q: I'm so terrified and ashamed of myself. It's been two weeks since I bought my baby sun conure. The ...
A: Limiting feeding in a very young chick doesn't accomplish anything but causing a nutritional ...
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| my cockatiel is confusing me... | 4/14/2008 |
Q: normally i dont have any problems with birds but i do have a question about my cockatiel. he's at ...
A: If you're sure this isn't a normal molt, you are probably dealing with a parasite/fungal or ...
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| Single Blue & Gold Macaw laying eggs | 4/13/2008 |
Q: My Blue & Gold Macaw laid her first egg last night. I am concerned about her health and well being. ...
A: You're right to want to stop this, but you're also doing a wonderful job with her in that this is ...
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| Cockatiels cage placement | 4/12/2008 |
Q: This is our first bird... ever. We've had everything else. We want the cage in the kitchen... ...
A: I wish I could tell you that 'green pans' are ok, but unfortunately, they're not. In fact, with a ...
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| B&G macaw, hard | 4/11/2008 |
Q: ..I have a blue and gold, and she was very sweet when we first got her home, I have had her for ...
A: It sounds like she DOES like you, after all - she's left you your fingers. The walk around the ...
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| macaw | 4/11/2008 |
Q: what color should thier droppings be if its almost clear what whould that mean
A: The color will often depend on what foods the bird eats. If they're eating mostly seed, droppings ...
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| sick weiro | 4/10/2008 |
Q: Ive been giving my weiro antibiotic for bloody loose diarhea and was wondering how long do you ...
A: Depending on the cause of the diarrhea, it may be something you can pick up, although it's not ...
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| baby picking fiend! | 4/10/2008 |
Q: Well, I never thought that this would happen to me. I have quite a bit of experience in birds, and a ...
A: This happens more than you think. Usually it self resolves when the chicks are older and start ...
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| African grey drastic behavoir change | 4/9/2008 |
Q: I have an african grey that will be 3 years old in June. I have had him since about 4 months old ...
A: The most promising part of this is that you're so determined to work with him rather than react and ...
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| about birds | 4/9/2008 |
Q: how much do you get a month and a year
A: At AllExperts, zero. This is a strictly volunteer site. At my own site (www.4AnimalCare.org), ...
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| Timneh African Grey picking/trimming feathers | 4/9/2008 |
Q: I have a one year old Timneh African Grey who began picking/trimming his feathers a couple of months ...
A: I'm a bit indulgent of my birds and the other rescues I take, which includes hand feeding, sometimes ...
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| Hahn's Macaw | 4/9/2008 |
Q: We have an 18 week old Hahn's Macaw. We're worried that he'll never wean! He gets fed 2 - 3 times ...
A: Yes, we can spoil our birds and make weaning more difficult. Just like overly indulging a baby, ...
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| quaker parrots | 4/8/2008 |
Q: We have a 7 yr old Quaker Male. We are having Non-Stop screaming problems. It starts when the bird ...
A: Sometimes when things like this start they just snowball until everyone's miserable. When your ...
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| Redness around macaws nostril | 4/8/2008 |
Q: I have a 2 year old blue & gold macaw that developed a redness around his right nostril yesterday. ...
A: It's very possible he's having some irritation as the result of an allergy. Macaws are one of the ...
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| Timneh African Grey picking/trimming feathers | 4/8/2008 |
Q: I have a one year old Timneh African Grey who began picking/trimming his feathers a couple of months ...
A: I'm going to compose my own little novel to try to help ok? I know I'll very likely go over things ...
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| quaker parrots | 4/7/2008 |
Q: We have a 7 yr old Quaker Male. We are having Non-Stop screaming problems. It starts when the bird ...
A: Why does he go to bed so late and sleep in 'til noon? Does he have a separate sleep cage ? ...
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| cockatiel's wing keeps bleeding | 4/6/2008 |
Q: Mr Abbott, I have a cockatiel of about 14 years old, purchased as a baby from a pet shop. His wings ...
A: A wing clipping should have only included non-blood feathers and since they grow back regularly, a ...
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| abused macaw | 4/6/2008 |
Q: we recently took in a female macaw with a troubled past, she was beaten and neglected and also used ...
A: What kind of macaw is she? Beak holding is perfectly normal for them, it's almost like a ...
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| weiros | 4/6/2008 |
Q: blood coming out of our female weiros bottom
A: If you're sure it's blood and not the result of a food she's eaten - it's an urgent care situation. ...
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| B&G macaw, hard | 4/4/2008 |
Q: ..I have a blue and gold, and she was very sweet when we first got her home, I have had her for ...
A: OK, at this age the petting shouldn't trigger egg laying or mating behavior, but the points that ...
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| Sun Conure | 4/4/2008 |
Q: I have a 2yr. old Sun Conure. I have heard they are not really good talkers, but like to imitate ...
A: Not all birds are talkers, even though they have the capabilities. Not all humans who are ...
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| Green Wing Pair/ Has Half developed embryo. | 4/4/2008 |
Q: We have Pair Green Wings.They are older we adopted from an a lady who was in her eighties. And just ...
A: Let's try to start from the beginning and give them a break from laying and nesting for a few ...
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| Sun Conure beek peeling | 4/3/2008 |
Q: My sun conure is about 11 months old, and I just noticed her beek peeling on one side. I've been ...
A: The bottled water is fine, but you shouldn't need the iodine. You're right about sunflower seeds ...
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| Red Bellied Parrot losing feathers around eyes | 4/3/2008 |
Q: I am a new parrot owner. I have a, now 5 month old African Red Bellied Parrot (very similar to a ...
A: I think you're doing a fantastic job so far and if I could give you an award I would! You actually ...
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| caique bite | 4/3/2008 |
Q: yesterday and every once in awhile my caique was puffy in the head area....his iris in eyes were ...
A: The flare of feathers (puffy) and pinning of the eyes (getting little) are warnings to keep your ...
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| pink eye | 4/1/2008 |
Q: If a human child has pink eye, can this be passed on to parrots and if so, do they go blind? ...
A: Usually it's the other way around with the bacteria causing conjunctivitis in parrots being ...
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| B&G macaw, hard "nibbles" | 4/1/2008 |
Q: ..I have a blue and gold, and she was very sweet when we first got her home, I have had her for ...
A: You mention that you've had her for about 3 months, but how old is she ? Petting under the wings ...
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| my blue front amazon | 4/1/2008 |
Q: hi i have a blue front amazon witch i just bought a week ago he doesnt talk or scream or make any ...
A: If you think about it, since this beautiful bird will live 45 to even 60 years old with ideal care, ...
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| egg laying | 3/31/2008 |
Q: I have a yellow Nape Parrot. For the longest time we thought my bird was a boy, but long an behold, ...
A: You're doing a great job and you're right about leaving the eggs. Once the hen isn't interested ...
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| my cockatiel | 3/30/2008 |
Q: we brought our cockatiel to thr vet this morning and he has told us that nothing is broken only that ...
A: I'm so glad to hear that you did the right thing. He must mean a great deal to you and I can ...
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| My Cockatiel is sick....I think....? | 3/28/2008 |
Q: I wrote to you earlier this year about my cockatiel being very noisy - he's really good now; thanks ...
A: The first concern I have is that you're giving him anti-diarrheal meds. Please stop. These ...
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| Mccaw Blue and Gold | 3/27/2008 |
Q: I will start with thank you for your time Rev. I have recently aquired a blue and gold mccaw from a ...
A: I would love to see pics of your new rescue, a very lucky bird to have someone like you who's ...
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| greenwing macaw face | 3/27/2008 |
Q: I am not very familiar with macaws, but I do share my life with a yellow nape amazon. Anyway, my ...
A: The yellow tinge would concern me as well. If the bird is on a predominantly seed diet, hepatic ...
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| 7eggs in one month? | 3/26/2008 |
Q: My pet sun conure is 7years old, and just this month she started laying eggs. I'm just concerned ...
A: Sometimes internet info isn't the best is it? The truth is that egg laying should be discouraged ...
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| behaviour change | 3/26/2008 |
Q: i have a congo african grey that i've had since he was 16 weeks old. he has always been very tame ...
A: If you're putting the vitamins in the water, let's stop that and not be trusting the sales pitches ...
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| hahn's mini macaw...biting | 3/25/2008 |
Q: I just (today) adopted a hahn's mini macaw. She is two years old and came from a home where she was ...
A: I appreciate your patience and at just two years old, this little macaw has probably more than 50 ...
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| regurgitation while traveling in car | 3/25/2008 |
Q: my 9 month old male catalina macaw will regurgitate after head bobbing when ever i try to take it ...
A: One of my best rescues that was adopted out after a year in my care was a Catalina male that I hand ...
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| quaker parrot and cockatiel | 3/25/2008 |
Q: is it possible for a quaker parrot and a cockatiel to breed? if so what would come of this.
A: No, it's not possible for these two different species to successfully breed. The only thing they ...
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| blue & gold macaw | 3/24/2008 |
Q: I have a 2 year old +/- I think male macaw. At times his face is red/pink. It looks like he is ...
A: Welcome to the world of Macaws! Wonderful creatures, very smart and yes, they blush. It's perfectly ...
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| African Grey is "Nipping" | 3/22/2008 |
Q: I have a wonderful 4 1/2 year old Female African Grey Congo. We bought her in Dec 2007. She is the ...
A: This is one of the most intelligent of all birds and you're taking remarkable care of her. I love ...
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| Macaw - inactive | 3/21/2008 |
Q: Our macaw is 8 months old, and we have been feeding him commercial food. He was very active, and ...
A: These are very serious symptoms that cannot be handled at home. There are too many possible ...
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| my love bird is pregnant or sick. | 3/21/2008 |
Q: Is my lovebird pregnant or sick since this morning it is very calm not playing with other birds,i ...
A: Birds don't get pregnant and 'grow' like that. They lay eggs and nurture it outside their body ...
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| behavior of a Amazon Parrot toward a B&G Macaw. | 3/20/2008 |
Q: Abbott, We have both a Blue-front Amazon Parrot and a Blue and Gold Macaw. The parrot is a 24 year ...
A: Ahh, but just because they don't embrace doesn't mean they're enemies. It's not unusual for us to ...
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| red-fronted macaws | 3/18/2008 |
Q: I have a female Red-fronted Macaw. We finally found a male that was plucked (was told by his former ...
A: It's not nearly as odd as you might think. Try removing the nest box completely and giving them ...
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| senegal parrot - behavior | 3/17/2008 |
Q: I have a 9 month old hand reared female Senegal parrot who seems to suffer greatly from atmospheric ...
A: This is a very good question. You're actually pretty observant and this could very well be an ...
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| bird | 3/17/2008 |
Q: i was wondering if you got a incubator if you could buy a realy cheap parrot egg and hatch it and ...
A: It sounds simple enough doesn't it? The problem with parrot eggs in incubators and hand feeding is ...
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| african grey runny nose | 3/15/2008 |
Q: i bought my grey in november ihad lost a grey after 20 years. So this problem is new to me. he has ...
A: I hope you keep him, it sounds like he needs some real love. It's not unusual to see clear nasal ...
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| Yellow Naped Amazon | 3/14/2008 |
Q: I need advise on how to get my tame, loving bird back after sharing my affection to another bird at ...
A: I understand. I also know what you mean by not enough room here to explain so take a look at my ...
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| cokatiel neglect | 3/14/2008 |
Q: I have recently noticed one of my neighbours down the road has bought a cockatiel. For three weeks I ...
A: I don't blame you in how you're feeling and I thoroughly agree about the lack of information from ...
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| Leg Band | 3/14/2008 |
Q: I have a Blue Front Amazon Parrot with a quarantine band. The band number is CGF478. Can you give ...
A: CAM828 A band like this would denote a California privately owned commercial import facility. ...
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| baby parrot | 3/13/2008 |
Q: I a Canadian, currently living in China, which is a terrible place for birds. While I was walking ...
A: I'll look at your newest pics in a bit, but wanted to address this right now. The crop to that ...
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| Blue & Gold Macaw | 3/13/2008 |
Q: My Blue & Gold Macaw is 26 years old, I've had her since she was a baby. I feed her Harrisons ...
A: Good question Jeanie! I'm glad you brought it up so I can address it not only for you, but for ...
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| lineolated parrots | 3/13/2008 |
Q: We have a female linnie which we have had since Nov 2006 as a baby - she is very loving to my ...
A: There are any number of things that might have happened while she was 'visiting', but the most ...
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| baby parrot | 3/12/2008 |
Q: I a Canadian, currently living in China, which is a terrible place for birds. While I was walking ...
A: Paul, thank you for rescuing this bird and your others. I was at your site and saw him (though it ...
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| sun conure | 3/11/2008 |
Q: we travel w/ our 9 1/2 yr old sun conure. for the 1st time her(?) behavior is different. very ...
A: It might just be the stress of both the new environment and the season change. That's reaching for ...
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| My little Sun Conure | 3/11/2008 |
Q: My husband and I are animal lovers. Once we read up on conures, we decided to get a sun. We found a ...
A: The biggest plus is that this bird will nuzzle and not bite, is only 6 months old and has patient, ...
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| lovebirds egg with it survive please reply asap thankyou. | 3/11/2008 |
Q: i dont know why they did it and they have abondoned the 3rd egg so i took it out and put it in a ...
A: I'm sorry to say that this egg is very unlikely to be viable. It's not just a matter of heat, but ...
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| Parrot beak | 3/10/2008 |
Q: I recently adopted an abused macaw. He has a habit of smacking down his beak with his foot in it ...
A: From what you describe there should eventually be regrowth to the beak. It's probably a good idea ...
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| African grey sleeping at bottom of the cage | 3/10/2008 |
Q: I don't know if you'd be able to help me with this type of parrot but here goes. I bought my 5 ...
A: chances are this is perfectly fine. In a bird this young it's not unusual for them to not only ...
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| MY PARAKEET!!! | 3/9/2008 |
Q: I have had my two parakeets since September 19 2007 Taco is a boy and burrito is a girl... taco is ...
A: First, get rid of that pet store product that is supposed to ward off fleas/mites. These are just ...
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| My Sunconure (female) named Kate | 3/9/2008 |
Q: Kate,is about 7 years old, she was supposedly hand fed but really, just force fed every twelve hours ...
A: Isn't it awful what some breeders will do for profit? It's disgusting. I'm glad you got this ...
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| help | 3/9/2008 |
Q: i got a female indian ringneck and she wont let me pet her. i had her for 5 months. what do i do so ...
A: One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to their parrots is thinking of them like a ...
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| african grey runny nose | 3/8/2008 |
Q: i bought my grey in november ihad lost a grey after 20 years. So this problem is new to me. he has ...
A: How old is he? Is this discharge clear? Is he sneezing too? Do you have days without any ...
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| sun conure | 3/8/2008 |
Q: but i was wondering...i think my sun conure is becoming sexually mature and i am wondering what the ...
A: She should reach sexual maturity around 1 1/2 to 2 years old. Yes, she'll lay infertile eggs if ...
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| Severe Macaw | 3/8/2008 |
Q: I am a Leukemia patient who went into the hospital for 6 weeks and then came home. Bird was OK I ...
A: I hope you are responding well to treatment. Your little one is obviously bonded to you deeply. ...
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| sun conure | 3/7/2008 |
Q: but i was wondering...i think my sun conure is becoming sexually mature and i am wondering what the ...
A: Gee, nothing like being flattered hmmm? Well, since I'm the only one apparently available (sigh) ...
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| bird band # | 3/7/2008 |
Q: the band on my cockatiel has the numbers and letters FIP283. Can I find out his age by these and ...
A: Here are some examples that might help get you started: CAM828 A band like this would denote ...
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| Alexandrine Parakeet vs. Sun Conure | 3/7/2008 |
Q: I have a little problem. I don`t know what should I choose between those two. I understand that ...
A: Your English is excellent! This is a difficult question because how a bird learns and behaves is ...
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| Eclectus Parrot | 3/7/2008 |
Q: I have recently purchase an eclectus parrot which was treated poorly and is very mean because of ...
A: Your bird can recover from being treated harshly and end up a very loving girl. I have cases like ...
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| Blue and Gold Macaw | 3/5/2008 |
Q: can you please tell me if macaws have a pouch that they store food in?
A: Yes, in effect all birds have a "pouch". What it is, actually, is their crop. After they eat, their ...
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| Parrot defense | 3/5/2008 |
Q: How do Parrots protect themselves?
A: Good question! Parrots, with their hooked bills, are pretty adept at using those beaks for defense. ...
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| pet bird restraint | 3/5/2008 |
Q: I am wondering if you have any pictures and wording to show me how to actually restrain a pet bird ...
A: Now that you've asked that question I'm working on providing exactly that, so you're making even ...
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| Chick from blue crown and sun conure | 3/5/2008 |
Q: We have a pair of birds(by accident) each had lost their mates and we though it was both females ...
A: This is a very happy ending to a very sad story isn't it? I understand your concern about the beak ...
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| Normal Body Temperature of Macaws | 3/5/2008 |
Q: I have a sick blue & gold macaw, she is 8 months old.She has been to the vet and we are waiting for ...
A: Normal body temperature for a blue and gold macaw is between 103-105 degrees. You must never take ...
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| Blue fronted amazon and lovebirds | 3/4/2008 |
Q: Is it or will it ever be safe for the two to be in close quarters together. I own a amazon and just ...
A: Personally, I'm of the group that prefers a bird learn to fly and gain that confidence before having ...
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| Blue fronted amazon and lovebirds | 3/4/2008 |
Q: Is it or will it ever be safe for the two to be in close quarters together. I own a amazon and just ...
A: Yes. As long as they don't share a cage, they can (and should) share a room. They'll enjoy each ...
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| Baby blue and Gold Macaw | 3/3/2008 |
Q: I have recently purchased 5mth old blue and gold macaw. Before we purchased it we went and visited ...
A: What a good owner you are already! At this age your companion is still very much a baby. What ...
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| Lovebird | 3/2/2008 |
Q: I just bought a 2 or 3 month old lovebird and he very tame and friendly, but the problem is that i ...
A: Why not have their cages in the same room? Birds love each other's company like that and can be ...
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| Joey | 3/2/2008 |
Q: i am working with a 28 year old cockatoo and find that he gets over the top with his emotions.this ...
A: I'm glad you're trying to remain in this for the duration. Let's keep this perspective: He's been ...
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| need help | 3/2/2008 |
Q: My dad is building a cage for his Macaw, and he wanted to know what he needed to do so his parrot ...
A: Yes, a protective house would be necessary. The enclosure or the house should be heated for those ...
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| keeping kakariki's out of plant | 2/29/2008 |
Q: our kakaroki, even though we love him to bits will not keep out of the soil on my plants, is there ...
A: Eeek, no garlic (not good for birds). Honestly, the only sure way we've kept our birds out of ...
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| Blue/gold macaw feather plucking | 2/29/2008 |
Q: We live in Thailand our macaw has a lot of attention and freedom,We had just enough feathers taken ...
A: After reading through your question it seems a nearly perfect macaw world there. Good job! Then ...
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| indian ringneck parrots | 2/28/2008 |
Q: broccoli, carrots,apple grapes, and even a bit of cheese and they wont touch it could you please ...
A: Aside from the sunflower seeds - you're feeding your parrots excellent choices. Sunflower seeds are ...
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| male and female cockatiel | 2/28/2008 |
Q: we would very much appreciate your expert advice in this situation. Approx 2 years ago we purchased ...
A: Please remove him. It's far better for her to possibly become depressed than to be killed (and this ...
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| vomiting Eclectus | 2/28/2008 |
Q: I have a male eclectus who likes to vomit and eat his own vomit about 4yrs ago he just eat without ...
A: I'm glad you're trying to give him a better diet. Yes, you can try different pellets and any ...
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| Macaw vomitting | 2/28/2008 |
Q: I have a mini macaw that vomitted clear liquid a couple of times today. She laid one egg two days ...
A: No need to have another DNA/genetic profile done for the same things; however, if something was left ...
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| Macaw vomitting | 2/28/2008 |
Q: I have a mini macaw that vomitted clear liquid a couple of times today. She laid one egg two days ...
A: I wouldn't want to make a guess right now, but what you're doing in having the vet evaluation is ...
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| Spots on eyes of Amazon parrot | 2/27/2008 |
Q: We have a Yellow Crowned Amazon that we rescued from horrible conditions when it was just half a ...
A: What this looks like is a normal change that most people don't even notice - which often happens in ...
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| parrotlets | 2/27/2008 |
Q: we have a pair of parrotlets here male about 1 yr old and female is about 6 months they were ...
A: At approximately 1 to 1 1/2 years old the female should reach sexual maturity; however, this ...
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| baby macaw | 2/26/2008 |
Q: i have a 3 week old baby b&g macaw.To make this short and sweet the symptons to date are.She sounds ...
A: Your first description about the sound of nasal build up is something pretty common for macaws. Of ...
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| O.W. Amazon | 2/25/2008 |
Q: I just got Baby girl yesterday from a friend who said she has had her for 4 years. I asked how old ...
A: I'm so happy to hear from someone trying so hard like you are. This is a very lucky girl! ...
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| vomiting Eclectus | 2/25/2008 |
Q: I have a male eclectus who likes to vomit and eat his own vomit about 4yrs ago he just eat without ...
A: When he 'vomits' is this a side to side shaking of his head and throwing vomitus up and out all ...
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| Amazon Parrot | 2/25/2008 |
Q: We just purchased a 10yo Amazon. His cage is not in a drafty area, but we have noticed him ...
A: I'd like to have him seen for a hands-on exam just to be sure and have a general health screening. ...
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| parrot egg | 2/23/2008 |
Q: can i stimulate my blue and gold macaw to lay an egg?
A: Why would you want to do this? A bird engaging in egg laying is at high risk for egg binding which ...
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| baby lovebirds | 2/23/2008 |
Q: I have 3 baby lovebirds about 5 weeks old. Up until this point they have been healthy babies and ...
A: At this point you might want to try to take them out during the day, but keep them in a cage ...
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| Male Cockatoo Screaming | 2/23/2008 |
Q: I took Peaches from a Nurse that had rescued so many birds she had too many. I also took a Double ...
A: Let's stop everything and take a deep breath. There is probably very little of Peaches behavior ...
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| Amazon Parrot | 2/23/2008 |
Q: We just purchased a 10yo Amazon. His cage is not in a drafty area, but we have noticed him ...
A: What about other behaviors? How is he eating (and what is he eating)? Any fluffing or staying ...
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| baby lovebirds | 2/22/2008 |
Q: I have 3 baby lovebirds about 5 weeks old. Up until this point they have been healthy babies and ...
A: Since the lovebird chicks should be leaving the nest at about 6 weeks, it's close to the time to ...
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| Pionus Parrot tumor? | 2/22/2008 |
Q: I have a pionus parrot that is 9 years old. He developed a white growth on his breast about 1/2 inch ...
A: Claudia, you don't need to see an 'avian' vet - many regular vets are experienced with birds. ...
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| plucking | 2/22/2008 |
Q: I'm desperate, my 3 year old male rainbow lory had an episode of mites last year, it was treated by ...
A: I can see you're a devoted mom to this gorgeous bird and I am truly glad to hear you have a vet for ...
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| Cockatoo Behavior | 2/22/2008 |
Q: I have a cockatoo which im not sure how old it is. He is very nice and steps up and everything. ...
A: I'm sorry, forgot about the fabric issue. I've found similar activity in all of the larger ...
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| Orange Winged Amazon RE: Rescue | 2/21/2008 |
Q: I recently acquired this lovely bird. I went to visit a friend who had htis bird for 8 years. The ...
A: What a good job you're doing already. Let's assume there are no mites or parasites (if he was an ...
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| Cockatoo Behavior | 2/21/2008 |
Q: I have a cockatoo which im not sure how old it is. He is very nice and steps up and everything. ...
A: In some cases of parental stress, a chick might have part of their toes or even feet 'preened' right ...
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| Cockatoo Behavior | 2/20/2008 |
Q: I have a cockatoo which im not sure how old it is. He is very nice and steps up and everything. ...
A: This is what cockatoos do. They are often called "the velcro bird" because they truly need to be ...
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| blue and gold macaw | 2/20/2008 |
Q: I have an 11 month old, female blue and gold macaw. She doesn't have all of her feathers on her ...
A: At this point she should have her feathers and be looking pretty spectacular, not scraggly. I'd like ...
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| african grey | 2/20/2008 |
Q: i have an african grey he /she is 14 months old very tame but since the ago of about 7 months it has ...
A: I think what you suspect is what's happening and she's continuing chick feeding behavior. It's ...
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| Breeding Macaws part two | 2/19/2008 |
Q: I appreciate so much your knowledge and responnse to my first question regarding my brother's pair ...
A: You're doing everything right that I can tell so far. I'm not sure if I gave this to you before, ...
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| conure with something sticking out of her | 2/19/2008 |
Q: My nanday conure is 23 years old. We recently noticed this white thing sticking out right around the ...
A: What you're describing could be an egg trying to make it's way out. Even if she's never laid one in ...
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| McCaw | 2/19/2008 |
Q: My Macaw Casey is about 12 yrs old she started laying eggs over a yr ago just one or 2 a year now in ...
A: Adding a male or any other bird for her to bond with, whether it's to mate or not, will take your ...
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| sick bird? | 2/19/2008 |
Q: I have a 2 1/2 year old sun conure and this past week I've been under the impression that she is ...
A: There's a phrase to keep in mind, "Light for flight". Even the smallest droppings can improve a ...
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| Egg Binding/Sam | 2/18/2008 |
Q: I'm not sure if you received the picture I sent you of Sam, but I hope you did. Sam is going in for ...
A: Oh Rose, you are far from bothersome in writing to me. I have been thinking about you and Sam ...
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| parrot behavior | 2/18/2008 |
Q: My black headed caique George keeps nipping, although it sometimes hurt i would not class it as ...
A: It sounds like you're doing a fantastic job with George. I'd much rather a toenail be clipped a ...
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| conure as changed towards me | 2/18/2008 |
Q: ive called her fluffy she always been a active bird screaching trying to lift her door on her cage ...
A: Shelley, does she get out of her cage every day? The behavior you're describing is something I see ...
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| conure as changed towards me | 2/17/2008 |
Q: ive called her fluffy she always been a active bird screaching trying to lift her door on her cage ...
A: There is really no knowing what might have put your companion off cooperating and enjoying your ...
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| My Quaker Make A Weird Wheezing Sound! | 2/15/2008 |
Q: hi i have a 9 month old quaker & whenever i take him out of his cage he looks at me and makes this ...
A: If his droppings are normal, his eating is healthy and all other behaviors normal - chances are ...
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| Alexandrian Parrots | 2/15/2008 |
Q: I have just got a pair of Alexandrian parrots. They are about 4 weeks old. I wanted to know when ...
A: you're right to be wondering about the proper nutrition for these gorgeous parrots. Rice isn't ...
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| sick budgie?!? | 2/15/2008 |
Q: i've asked a question before, and now i have some new ones. i suspected my albino bird Evie was ...
A: The 'rods' look like plastic right? These are probably new feathers in their sheaths, just as you ...
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| parrotlet not finger trained | 2/14/2008 |
Q: I recently bought my mother a one year old parrotlet. I was told he was finger trained, but he ...
A: Yes, that's progress! Excellent progress. When you present your fingers/hands, do so slowly and ...
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| My Blue & Gold Macaw | 2/14/2008 |
Q: I have noticed that my B & G is losing feathers on her chest. She is in the cage with a Milli-Gold, ...
A: Feather loss is one of the most frustrating things a bird companion faces. Sometimes we can spend ...
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| Conure Beaks | 2/14/2008 |
Q: My Conure's Beak looks cracked. Is this a problem for him? Amd will it heal?
A: Beaks are like fingernails and wear down from the outside, often giving the appearance of being ...
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