Bird farming is quite a diverse hobby, from raising roosters for eggs to keeping cockatiels for company. Depending on your interest, you may decide to build an aviary or just have a cage in your living room. Of course, just as important as your interests are the needs of your bird, so select a species that is well suited to your lifestyle.
Bird farming is sometimes referred to as “aviculture”, a term defined by noted poultry farmer Dr. Jean Delacour as “the worldwide pastime of keeping and breeding numerous species of wild birds in captivity to maintain their numerical status in the wild with a view to prevent their extinction by supplying farmed birds”. He will note that he is referring to wild bird species, and it is generally accepted that aviculture is limited to the care and breeding of birds that are not fully domesticated, while those who care for and breed domesticated bird species are “fowl fanciers”. “.
Most people who take up this hobby will purchase from a local breeder or pet store, however more advanced hobbyists may decide to import a rarer species from abroad. If you take this route you must ensure that you comply with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
There are several different groups of birds you can choose from, each with their own characteristics and care requirements. Then, within each group, you will need to carefully select a species that suits you. For example, if you want a talking parrot, not just any parrot will do, as some species are quite calm. Some bird groups with species that make good pets:
- buderigars
- Canary Islands
- cockatoos
- cockatoos
- finches
- parrots
- parakeets
- soft banknotes
There are a number of criteria to consider when selecting your bird, for example:
- Some pets do not do well in a cage and require an aviary
- If you decide on an avian bird, you should keep in mind that it will not become as close a companion as a bird you have at home.
- If you’re looking for a talking bird, be sure to select a species with great mimicry skills, such as the African Gray Parrot.
- Bird expenses vary widely, so keep your budget in mind
- Parrots and other birds can live to be 80 years old, so plan for your pet to outlive you or select one with a lifespan that suits your lifestyle.
There are many other considerations and much to learn about keeping birds, but I hope this article has helped you get started.
