Prepare Your Birds for the Chilly Months Ahead

Posted by on Nov 21, 2015 in Birds | No Comments

It’s the time of year again when you head into the dark, far corners of your closet in search of your warm, cozy jacket; trade in your flip flops for fuzzy socks, and pull-out all your soft, snuggly blankets.  It is important to remember that birds also need extra attention and care to ensure their comfort during these cold, winter months.

A few simple tasks will help your fine-feathered friends endure this time; whether they reside inside or out.  If birds are in an indoor aviary or birdcage the following tips are important to perform:

  • Make sure the location of the bird home is not close to any drafts.
  • At night, place a cover over the bird cage.  (If you have one of our aviaries this is not necessary.)
  • Ensure your birds continue to receive a healthy diet, along with specified vitamins.  This will help boost their immune system, preparing them to handle changes in temperature.

For those of you that love to care for the wild birds around your home, follow these guidelines:

  • Placement of water is important.  Keep water near shrubs or plants that offer protection.
  • Avoid ceramic baths because they can crack in cold weather.  A good purchase is a plastic birdbath which contains a built-in heater.  If you already have a bath that is being used in the summer, you can simply winterize it by adding a heater.
  • Make sure the bath is on a pedestal to keep your feathered friends away from cats or other predators.  If your neighborhood is rampant with cats you may not want to provide birdbaths.
  • Make sure the water is refilled frequently, and that the bath is kept clean.

Now that you have taken time to prepare your birds for the upcoming winter months, you can relax and enjoy the melodic song and flight of your well-cared for friends!