Owning a bird can be rewarding, but it requires time, knowledge and long-term commitment. Careful research is essential before bringing a bird into your home.
Please note: These guides do not constitute legal advice and any information provided should not be construed as legal advice or legal interpretation. DoneDeal does not accept any liability for any loss caused by reliance on this guide.
Choosing Your Bird
Do Your Research
Never buy a bird on impulse. Some species require significant care, stimulation and long-term commitment.
Consider lifespan:
African Grey Parrot: up to 50 years
Cockatiel: 10–24 years
Budgie: 8–10 years
Make sure you are prepared for the long-term responsibility.
If you are new to bird ownership, smaller species such as budgies are often recommended. They are sociable, easily tamed and generally good companions for children. Larger birds may bond more closely with adults.
Check the Seller and Environment
Ensure the place you are buying from is clean and well maintained.
The cage should not smell.
The bird should appear alert and curious.
Healthy birds have bright eyes and sleek feathers.
Fluffed-up or ruffled plumage can indicate illness.
Do not proceed if the bird appears unwell.
Housing Requirements
Often, the cage and equipment will cost more than the bird itself.
Choose a cage based on the bird’s needs, not available space in your home.
Buy the largest cage you can reasonably afford.
Perches
Avoid plastic perches. These can cause foot problems.
Choose natural wood or rope perches instead.
Toys and Stimulation
Most pet birds belong to the parrot family and are highly intelligent and active.
Provide enrichment through toys, but rotate them rather than placing them all in the cage at once.
Nutrition Support
Include:
Cuttlefish bone (for calcium)
An iodine block
Clean the cage regularly:
Budgies: two to three times per week
Larger birds: daily
Newspaper or suitable cage liners can be used.
Diet
A seed-only diet is not balanced and may lead to health issues.
Larger birds benefit from pellet-based diets.
All birds should be offered fresh greens such as lettuce, parsley or spinach.
Provide fresh, clean water daily.
A varied diet supports long-term health.
Handling and Socialisation
Birds may be either hand-reared or parent-reared.
Hand-Reared Birds
More accustomed to human handling
Require regular interaction
Generally more expensive
Parent-Reared Birds
Can still be tamed with patience
Require gradual, gentle handling
If you have limited time to interact with a budgie, consider purchasing two so they can provide companionship for each other.
Exercise
Birds require daily time outside their cage.
Keeping a bird confined at all times is not appropriate.
Ensure the room is safe:
No open windows or chimneys
No hazards or escape routes
Young birds can be trained to return to the cage using gentle handling techniques.
Veterinary Care
Birds are prey animals and often conceal illness until it becomes serious.
Signs of illness include:
Sleepiness or inactivity
Reduced appetite
Diarrhoea
Droopy eyelids
Fluffed-up feathers
Sudden behavioural changes
If you notice any of these signs, consult a qualified veterinarian immediately.
Final Advice
Bird ownership is a long-term responsibility requiring daily care, interaction and financial commitment.
Take your time choosing the right species, ensure appropriate housing and diet, and prioritise regular veterinary care.
We spoke to Bairbre O’Malley, veterinary surgeon and bird specialist based in Bray, Co. Wicklow, in preparing this guide.
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