Our husbandry recommendations
Parrots (Psittacidae) are social species of birds and, with a few exceptions, cave breeders. Over 340 species of parrots are currently known, of which 203 species regularly reproduce in captivity. With a few exceptions, parrots live in pairs or in groups. In principle, they are to be kept in this way in the care of humans.
The possibility of reproduction should be given if the accommodation of the offspring is guaranteed. The extensive behavioral repertoire is supported by varied aviary, cage or shelter equipment, e.g. B. with fresh twigs or other suitable objects.
Outdoor aviary
If the aviary is kept outside, there must be a shelter or, in individual cases, weather protection that the birds can visit at any time. This protection can be created by suitable planting or partition walls. Only in bad weather, e.g. B. severe frost, the birds may be kept in the shelter during the day. Still, it is important that the birds can reach nature. If cats, predators or birds of prey can reach the aviary, the birds should be able to fly the interior at all times. Feed and water must be offered fresh every day, the vessels must be cleaned beforehand. Sometimes it is advisable to leave the animals indoors after evening feeding.
Indoor aviary
The indoor aviary and the shelter must be cleaned at least once a week. The floor of an outdoor aviary can either be natural or covered with sand, gravel or the like. The material of the aviaries, cages and their equipment must not lead to damage to health, should be easy to clean and must be processed and attached in such a way that injuries cannot occur. The grating should consist of cross bars or mesh. Ideally, stainless steel is used. Cages, aviaries and shelters should be equipped with various wooden perches of different thicknesses, which are attached in such a way that the longest possible flight paths are created.
Health
A bathing facility should be available at all times if possible. If the weather is suitable, birds should not bathe with water at least once a week. Automatic irrigation is better.
Particular attention should be paid to varied, suitable feed. It is not enough to feed parrots with dry seeds all year round. Depending on the bird species, nuts, sprouted food, fruit, vegetables, green fodder and, during the rearing of the young, egg food must also be offered.
Parrots should be checked daily for signs of illness and injuries. A veterinarian is to be notified if there is a suspicion of illness or injuries.
Aviary sizes
In general, the bigger the better. Our aviaries are individually adapted to the needs of the species and far exceed the minimum requirements of the legislature. Our birds thank us for the spacious aviaries by keeping them healthy and active.
Based on our experience, we would like to make a minimum recommendation for the different aviary sizes - which can be adjusted depending on the space available and investment opportunities. All information in meters: width x depth x height:
Macaws and black cockatoos
Indoor aviary: 3.00 x 3.00 x 2.50 m
Outdoor aviary: 3.00 x 8.00 x 3.00 m
All macaws (and also golden parakeets and parrots) need a temperature of 12-15 ° C in the shelter.
Cockatoos and Eclectus Parrots
Indoor aviary: 2.00 x 2.00 x 2.50 m
Outdoor aviary: 2.00 x 8.00 x 2.50 m
The indoor aviaries should not fall below a temperature of 10 ° C.
Parakeets and small parrots
Indoor aviary: 1.50 x 1.50 x 2.50 m
Outdoor aviary: 2.00 x 4.00 x 2.50 m
The temperature of the indoor aviaries is adapted to the birds listed above, depending on the country of origin.
An aviary should be at least 2.50 m high so that the wooden seats are at eye level or higher.