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Read part 1, Meet Kari, Hey Cute Bird Rescue

What is your process for getting a bird ready for adoption?

When looking for a bird for your family there’s a LOT to consider. Smaller birds like parakeets and canaries can live up to 15 years. Medium and large birds can live 25–60+. Are you willing to make that kind of permanent commitment?

Regarding housing and care, birds require large cages, play areas, a variety of foods, specialized vet care (often harder to find) and many hours of attention. Here are a few of the concerns that come up: asthma, smoking habits, household cleaners, and types of cookware help determine whether or not your household is a good fit for a bird. Those are just the environmental, we have a complete checklist we go over.

A good bird owner must have the patience of a saint! You can’t live in fear that the birds are going to bite you. Because they will. No question! Haha We try to talk people through the expectations and help them determine what species might suite them best. Just because you want a big loud cockatoo doesn’t mean you’re ready for one, trust me!

How can we help you succeed?

Rescues of course always need funds to aid what we do to cover the high costs of bird care, donations are always appreciated! My birthday is this month and I am doing a fundraiser on Facebook.

Other ways to help a rescues are to become a foster parent, watch for volunteer opportunities, and to even share social media posts.

To succeed as a bird rescue in the community we need to get people talking about birds. Know the resources in your area, just being aware even if you’re not a bird owner!

What is one piece of advice for someone that wants their first parakeet?

Educating is a big part of prevention! Lastly, I’d like to say that my biggest philosophy regarding birds is to keep your expectations reasonable, your heart open, and patience at the forefront of everything you do. It takes a certain kind person to keep birds. While they may have some things in common with cats and dogs, parrots are truly unlike any other pet and can share a deep meaningful connection with their owner for one of the longest lifespans of any pet. Consider a parrot to join your family! If you have questions talk to a rescue! Relinquishment to the rescue means you’re giving us the opportunity to get to know your bird, determine its long term needs, and help guide the bird into a knowledgeable new owners care. It sounds so simple when you write it down but a lot goes into adjusting a bird into a new environment. Some birds will pull their feathers in the wrong home out or even become terrified and try to bite. Finding the right fit can actually take a long time due to the special needs of some of the birds we take in.

What would you tell someone wanting their first bird like a parakeet?

Parakeets (actually should be called Budgerigar) are often considered a “starter bird” as they are small and easy to care for.

What are five things to consider when getting a bird?

1. Parakeets may be small but they can have lifespans up to 15 years. Be prepared for the commitment. They can also get lonely as single pets and may need a friend to keep them company.

2. Parakeet cages at pet stores are way too small. Decades ago, tiny round cages hung from the ceiling were often how birds were contained. New knowledge has shown their lifespans dramatically decrease when they are unable to fly and interact socially!

3. Vet care is expensive. (This is regarding all birds) But even a $25 parakeet from a pet store deserves the same vet care and attention of a bird that costs $2000.

4. Their needs are the same of larger parrots. You can’t use candles, scented products, non stick pans, or chemicals in your home without the risk of poisoning their tiny lungs.

5. Socializing parakeets takes time. You’re hands are 3x the size of their entire body! Offer them food and bribery to convince them to step up onto your hand. The more they trust you the more they will open up. A really well cared for parakeet can also learn to talk!