Barb H. asks:
I’d appreciate advice on integrating parrots into a 36′ X 10 communal aviary for 8 amazons & 2 macaws.
These birds have all lived together in the same room divided by partitions. Although separated, they can see each other and communicate.
Since they’re familiar with each other, I’m hoping for a painless transition.
Laurieann T writes:
Why is my 25-year-old yellow-naped Amazon named Peso chewing up his cage cover?
This is the second time in months.
But yet at night, he wants to be covered up?
Editors note: In the featured image above, Barney was obsessing with the other bird in the mirror as Catherine observed.
We have since blocked access to that part of the mirror and Barney has become far more social (less hormonal). Endnote
One of the reasons we are able to stay in business going up against the likes of Amazon and Chewy is that we answer the phone and can provide useful advice.
And although PetSmart and Petco will answer the phone on a national or store level, good luck with getting information about proper care for your white-capped Pionus.
There is been a definite uptick of calls and emails seeking advice for birds exhibiting bad hormonal behavior.
Marie A. reached out:
HELP!!!!!!
I have a real problem and need to fix it asap – doing what is best for both birds ……
I purchased what I hoped was a male for my pink eyed yellow female Flash.
“Tiki” turned out to be a female and right about that time I had to move in with my elderly mother who had 2 back fractures and the birds came with me.
I also have another bonded pair male/female but the male is very old and past breeding age.
Lisa K writes:
I have a very hormonal lovebird.
Very. Hormonal.
To the extent that he is wearing the feathers away from his body from rubbing against his perch and his tail is all scraggly from grabbing it with his foot to balance himself.
At first, I was taking him to the “best avian vet in the state” who wanted to give him monthly shots at $45 a pop.
Stacy T writes:
My bird is a plucker and your recent article about lighting is something I’d like to try.
I’m not sure what full-spectrum light to purchase as he has a cage that has a solid play top.
Gloria W. writes:
Hello Mz Tobsing
I appreciate your advice on light therapy as that cured the hormone problem for my little girl parakeet.
Now I have a new problem or question, please.
I have two boys and one girl parakeet each with its own cage.
The little girl has a larger cage than the boys.
All the cages sit on tables.
Birds act out at the most instinctual level – they are not playing games.
The original Quora question was:
“What does it mean if your pet bird hides under a table/chair?”
Drugs like Lupron, Haldol, and Prozac were designed and tested by the FDA on humans.
Zero long-term testing of these drugs has been performed on any bird ~ ever.
The next time a veterinarian tells you “these are safe for your bird.”
Your response should be “please provide the data that backs up your statement.”