Mostly sunny. Highs 62 to 69. Light winds becoming northwest around 10 mph in the afternoon.

Modesto, CA
Clear, 63°
Hi/Low: 67° / 40°
Extended forecast

Click here to register for a free car wash!
Search for
Web search powered by YAHOO! SEARCH
Life - Pets

Tuesday, Jan. 06, 2009

Check out the birdies: Finding a suitable breed

email this story to a friend E-Mail print story Print
Comments (0)
Text Size:

tool name

close
tool goes here

More than 6 million American households have birds as pets. In fact, there are more than 16 million pet birds out there, according to the American Pet Products Association.

If you are considering buying a bird, here are some things to consider:

Study the different characteristics of each breed and make sure the bird you choose will fit in with your lifestyle. Some birds like a lot of attention and need toys and interaction to prevent from becoming bored. Some love to chatter and others love to scream, so decide whether you and your family (and neighbors) are comfortable with that if you choose something like a noisy macaw.

Buy only from a specialized breeder or a reputable pet store.

Make sure the bird looks healthy; check out if its eyes are clear.

Take your bird for a checkup at your vet as soon after you get it as possible.

For more information, contact your veterinarian or the Central California Cage Bird Club at 869-5066 or visit it at mycccbc.org.

Quick Job Search