Owning a pet can be a wonderful thing. They can be companions, entertaining us for days when we’re happy and pulling us up when we’re down. But what if you want something other than a cat or dog? What if you want something a little more…exotic?
An exotic bird is not the most typical pet, but it can be a benefit for the typical owner. Owning an exotic bird can be fulfilling in many ways, including…
Having Something Social to Be Around
Exotic birds can be friendly creatures to owners and their guests. From the Yellow-thighed caique to the Blue-fronted Amazon, these birds enjoy having a home that fosters interaction and play. Others have the ability to talk if trained properly, like the Indian Ringneck or the African Grey which can create full, clear sentences. If you’re somebody who may be new to an area or wouldn’t mind an extra buddy, exotic birds can be your new friend.
Fostering a Healthy Lifestyle
Birds require a very particular environment, specifically in regards to air quality. They are sensitive to smoke and potential toxins in the home. Taking care of an exotic bird can improve your quality of life by causing you to give up certain bad habits, such as smoking. In addition, their diet can include fruits like apples and cherries along with common nuts. This may prompt you to buy similar food as a way to save money and be more conscious about what you take in as a pet owner. As a result, you both can soar with happier, healthier lives.
Making You Smarter
Exotic birds like the cockatoo are very intelligent, both in play and movement. Training them is not an easy feat and requires a lot of patience and know-how. The process itself is rewarding for both of you, as you will have to rely on critical thinking and strategic behavior reinforcement to make sure you get the results you want out of your training. Plus, you have the added benefit of doing research about your bird, giving you greater insight and appreciation for it along your journey.
Having a Great Conversation Starter
According to a 2017 study by the National Pet Owners Association, 68% of households in the U.S. own a pet. From that percentage, 7.9 million homes own a bird. If you consider that only a portion of those homes owns exotic birds specifically, then you may have something that other people do not have. This can be a great ice breaker for new friends or a story starter for longtime guests eager to know how your flying friend is doing. Maybe it can even cause more people to buy their own exotic bird, which is always a plus!
Building Lifelong Adventures
These magnificent creatures can have a long lifespan. Some, like the budgies, can live for 5-7 years; others, like the Amazon, have the chance to live as many as 60 years. No matter which exotic bird you have, they can be with you for a lifetime, bringing you adventures daily with a flair that dogs and cats may lack.
Whether you’re a fan of flight or want to spread your wings socially, owning an exotic bird can be a rewarding experience as a pet owner. You may think that you’re changing the bird’s life, but it’ll change yours for the better.
Sources:
m.petmd.com/bird/top_tens/evr_bd_top10talking_birds?page=1
www.avianwelfare.org/issues/articles/NBD_shelters_before_adopting.pdf
www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-pet-statistics
exoticbirdevents.com/How-Long-Do-Birds-Live.html