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Natural Nesting Behaviors May Counter Spring Cleaning
Female birds may start displaying unusual changes in
behavior as spring approaches and the season brings about longer days. Owners
may notice that their birds have been scratching or tearing at the newspaper
lining in their cage. This type of mess may also be accompanied by a collection
of self-removed feathers. These actions may seem bizarre, unusual and
problematic, but it’s simply a natural adjustment.
This type of behavior is instinctual and especially common
during breeding times. During the beginning of the season, shortly after
Daylight Savings has begun, mature females may demonstrate attempts at
constructing a nest, or searching for potential nest-building materials. These
urges are often so strong that females will provide a nest by any means
necessary, i.e. plucking their own feathers. This innate need to prepare a home
for potential offspring is oftentimes destructive and should be remedied.
The aforementioned behaviors are natural, just as birds,
and all pets, were once free-roaming creatures. Captivity and cages are not
natural surroundings to these birds, so it is up to the owner to provide them
with essential materials to reduce seasonal stress that may be affecting their
pet’s comfort and well-being. All-natural bedding materials will prove ideal
since they consist of items that birds will find in the wild. This type of cage
addition will also provide warmth, security, and stress-relief. Owners may
notice that their bird has begun redecorating their cage with the nesting
materials in attempts to obtain a more comfortable surrounding; this should be
encouraged because comfort is in direct correlation with overall health