Species: There are several species of lovebirds, such as the genus Agapornis. But the most commonly found species in the pet trade include peach faced lovebirds, or Agapornis roseicollis, masked lovebirds (Agapornis personata) and Fischer’s lovebirds (Agapornis fischeri). There are many color mutations found in peach faced lovebirds and several mutations in some of the other species, so there are many color variations of lovebirds available. Size: Lovebirds are small, compact parrots about 5-6 inches in length. Expected Life Span: Up to 15
Read MoreCockatiels
Cockatiels are among the most popular pet birds. Small parrots with a variety of color patterns and a crest, they are attractive as well as friendly and easy to tame. Because of their small size, cockatiel care and taming is easier than some other parrot species. They are capable of mimicking speech, although they can be difficult to understand. However, they are quite good at whistling and can often be taught to whistle tunes. Choosing a Bird It is best
Read MoreCanaries
The Canary species is called Serinus canaria and is actually a member of the finch family, native to the Canary Islands. The wild canary is greenish yellow over most of their body with yellow underparts. The domestic canary comes in an array of bright colors and can live up to 10 years. Male canaries sing better than females, although the canary may not sing as much during a molt. The canary does not require a great deal of attention and are
Read MoreBudgies
Budgies (budgerigars) are an extremely popular pet bird, and for good reason. These small parrots make delightful pets, and are usually friendly and easy to tame. While they can sometimes be difficult to understand, they are quite capable of mimicking speech. Budgies are sometimes also called parakeets (specifically shell parakeets) as they are members of the parakeet family. There are also two types of budgies – the American budgie or parakeet, and the English budgie. The American variety is the
Read MoreAfrican Grey Parrot
There are two subspecies of African grey parrot commonly found in the pet trade – the Congo African grey (Psittacus erithacus erithacus) and the Timneh African grey (Psittacus erithacus timneh). The Congo African grey is slightly larger than the Timneh, and has bright red tail feathers. The Timneh’s tail feathers are darker (maroon), and overall the Timneh usually has slightly darker coloration than the Congo, especially over the back (although not always the case). While the Congo’s beak is grey,
Read MoreAre You Leaving Your Pet Alone?
Are You Leaving Your Pet Alone? Many of us can't stay home with our pets all day long, but that doesn't mean you can't have a happy dog or cat. As with children, quality can help make up for lack of quantity, according to animal behaviorist and CALLING ALL PETS host Patricia "Trisha" McConnell. "What's […]
Read MorePreparing Your Pet for the Winter
Preparing Your Pet for the Winter This winter, while you curl up next to the fire with a cozy blanket, a good book and some hot chocolate, don’t forget about your pet! Winter can play it rough with your pet and you have to look out for his health and well-being. Here are some preparations […]
Read MoreHome Dental Care for Your Pet
Home Dental Care for Your Pet What’s one of the first things you do every morning? Brush your teeth, of course. Most of us can’t imagine missing a day of dental care. Yet the same diligence does not hold true for many pets in the United States. You can protect your pet from dental disease, […]
Read MoreIntroducing Your First
Introducing Your First Pets aren't the only ones who need a little (or a lot) of help adjusting to life with a newborn. No matter how much you plan ahead, the addition of a new family member may be difficult for your pet. Remember, your dog or cat was your first “baby” and is used […]
Read MorePreparing Your Pet for the Arrival of a New baby
Preparing Your Pet for the Arrival of a New baby Helping your pet adjust to the arrival of a new baby is much like preparing a young child for a new sibling. An infant brings many changes to a household, however, you can help your pet adjust to the big changes with minimal time and […]
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