Softbills for sale in the Netherlands

Softbills: behaviour and suitability

Many softbills actively search leaves, floor and branches and defend food or breeding territory. A mixed aviary requires knowledge of every species and extra room to avoid conflict. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Match temperature, humidity, light, live insects, fruit and nectar use exactly and remove perishable food quickly. Use natural planting with dry resting places and secure indoor and outdoor housing against escape. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Ask for scientific name, wild-caught or captive-bred origin, ring, legal documents and accepted food. Test droppings in imports and monitor weight, beak, feet and breathing. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.