Birds are often small, but they are complex animals. They need suitable housing, social contact, correct diet, flight space and veterinary care from someone who understands birds. Buy slowly and prepare first.
Health signs
A healthy bird is alert, balanced, breathing quietly and has clean feathers, bright eyes and normal droppings. Fluffed-up posture, tail bobbing, discharge, dirty vent, lameness or constant sleepiness are warning signs.
Questions for the seller
Ask age, diet, sex if known, ring or paperwork, parent-reared or hand-reared background, social behaviour and whether the bird is fully independent. For parrots and parakeets, ask about tameness honestly, not just the word "hand-tame".
Prepare the cage or aviary
Choose housing that allows movement, not only decoration. Perches, bathing, foraging and safe toys matter. Read setting up an aviary or bird cage before collection.
