As each
season is unique, each season also brings with it unique challenges to a bird
owner. Winter is no exception, and brings some holiday dilemmas with it, as
well. An awareness of the following potentially harmful situations will help
ensure that you and your bird’s holiday season remains happy and bright.
Fires In The Fireplace – A fire adds warmth and atmosphere to a cold winter day, but it’s probably in
your bird’s best interests to keep him away from the flame. Smoke is an irritant
to us, and is surely to our feathered friend’s delicate breathing passages.
Also, avoid using yule logs and color additives – they contain heavy metals that
can be harmful or even fatal to your bird.
Bathing – Winter
temperatures mean running furnaces, which often lead to dry air. Increasing the
humidity near your birds, by using a humidifier, frequent bathing, or both, will
decrease the chances of dry skin and breathing passages.
Drafts –
Obviously, it’s cold outside. While birds can efficiently cope with lower
temperatures, a cold draft can make your bird sick. Check your windows and doors
for leaks; if you find any, fix them or move your bird’s cage out of the wind.
Teflon Heaters and Appliances – Teflon has become the wonder product of the world – it is frequently used in
lamps, heaters, irons, stoves and cookware. When heated, Teflon gives off
poisonous fumes which can quickly kill unsuspecting birds. Do not buy appliances
which use Teflon, and check ones you already own.
Power Outages –
Winter weather sometimes means power outages. Bird owners need to plan on how
they will provide light, heat and food for their birds in case of power failure.
A backup power supply, flashlights, carriers, heating pads, bottled water and
prepared foods are all great to have on hand. An evacuation plan is also good to
have in case of a dire emergency.
Incense and Candles – Fragrant houses are not in the best interests of your bird. Scented candles,
air fresheners, carpet fresheners and other scents contain volatile oils which
are poisonous to birds. Try boiling herbs, such as cinnamon, cloves or mint,
instead.
Lots
Of Cooking In The Kitchen – No holiday is complete without a good meal. What smells appetizing to you
smells good to your bird, too! Keep an eye on inquisitive birds who may fly or
jump into a bowl or pan, they can be burned, or even drown. It may be best to
keep your bird out of the kitchen when preparing for a holiday meal.
Holiday Plants –
Many of our favorite holiday plants are harmful to birds. Poinsettias contain a
milky sap that irritates eyes and the digestive tract, Christmas Cactuses are
spiny, Holly Berries cause stomach upset and Mistletoe is toxic.
Trees And Decorations – Birds + Christmas Tree = Potential Disaster. Although Pine and Fir Trees are
non-toxic, the needles on all trees are sharp and can cause trauma, especially
if ingested. Decorations, especially ones made of plastic, can cause intestinal
blockages should they be accidentally consumed. Keep your birds away from your
Christmas tree as there are many ways that our feathered friends can be hurt
from them. Do your best to make your tree bird safe. Glass and metallic
ornaments and lights can be broken, causing internal or external cuts. Wooden
ornaments and garlands made of popcorn, cranberries or paper are safer
alternatives for bird lovers.
Visitors – Late
nights, visitors and noise all can be disturbing for your bird. If you think
your bird will be stressed, move his cage or play gym to a quieter area while
you’re entertaining. He will appreciate the quietness, and will be happy to come
out once everyone’s gone home.