More important: Feeding birds and cleaning their cage, or holding them? (1 Viewer)

[StephenA]

I argue with my sister about this all the time. I clean my 5 budgies'(common parakeet) cage, feed them, vacuum around their cage, make sure they're ok, etc all the time. My sister holds them a few times a month. The reason why I don't hold them is because they all have each other and don't really need human companionship. If there was only one or two of them, then yes I'd hold them because they're very social birds. Since they are in a small flock, they've bonded more with each other than they will with humans. Now my sister was supposed to help me with taking care of them, which she did for a while. I ended up being the sole care provider. I was mad at first, due to the deal, but now I'm not, because I got them looking beautiful. They talk to me in budgie and whistle to me and all this other stuff while I take care of them. I complain to my sister for not keeping up her end of the deal, but she says I'm wrong for not holding them. So who is right?

 

[Kirk Gunn]

Your sister has reneged on her end of this bargain, and therefore should have no input. If she assumes partial responsibility for the "less glamorous" aspects of pet care, then she can enjoy the rewards of bonding. Until then, enjoy your birds the way you see fit.

She is the weakest link - GOODBYE !

 

[Jeff Cooper]

Holding birds is not a good idea. The natural oils from your skin on your hands does not jive well with their feathers and can cause them problems. Letting them perch on your finger or arm or shoulder is a much better way to let them bond with you.

 

[Jereme D]

Maybe I should stop petting my cockatiel as well? She would be disappointed, as she likes to be petted a lot. She walks up to my hand and puts her head down to let me know that she wants to be petted. haha

 

[Bill_Weinreich]

Jeremy

Birds can get VERY spoiled. Too much attention will give a strong bond to one person. I made this error with my cockatoo. He cant even stand me to leave the room. Once they are in the habbit of getting attention, they are hard to break of it. Unless it becomes a problem (emotionally for the bird), I dont see a need to stop. Just make sure your hands are clean.

As for the original question:

Stephen,

You are doing right by the birds. They are social creatures and since there are quite a few, keeping them together is the best option and kudos on upkeep of the cage. Keeping it clean with fresh food and water will ensure a longer, healthier life. Normal play time out of the cage will give you the oportunity to bond with them and keep a closer check on their health.

Also, Budgies and Cockatiels fly readily, even with wings clipped. So take precautions when letting them out. Make sure your sister is aware of the dangers to birds outside the cage(Animals, ceiling fans, windows, standing water, open doors, etc.)

Bill