Bathe or shower your bird at least twice a week (not just a sprinkle, but a thorough soaking). Bathe or shower your bird early enough in the day so there is time to dry before going to sleep for the night. Shampoo your bird once per month with an approved avian shampoo.

Keep your birds wings and nails trimmed!

Birds are sensitive to smoke , fumes from paint, adhesives, etc. If you do home repairs, please take care to provide clean air for your bird to breathe at all times. Many household plants are poisonous to birds.

Spend time with your new bird. Look at your bird while speaking to build a meaningful bond and promote language.

Teach your bird the basic “step-up” command. Teach the bird to step onto your finger when you say, “Step up.” Praise your bird whenever it follows your commands.

Always get control of your bird when necessary.

Allow your bird to perch on your hand, but not on your shoulder. Whenever possible, it is important to keep the bird’s eyes below your own eye level.

Give enthusiastic praise when your bird does something correctly. Never hit your bird when it misbehaves; this can cause permanent physical and emotional harm. A “time-out” for not longer than 5-10 minutes in the cage is more reasonable.

“Time-out” should never mean lengthy isolation or solitary confinement of your bird! Isolation and/or lack of interaction are emotional cruelty of your highly intelligent creature. If you are unable or unwilling to lovingly manage your parrot, please contact your avian veterinarian who will help you find a solution.