By Susan Chamberlain
As they do in the wild, pet birds awake with a joyful noise. After greeting each other and their human flock leader (you), they’re ready to go about their daily routine of foraging, bathing and grooming, work and play. You are the one who establishes the routine, and you’ll find that your bird will quickly adapt to your schedule.
Food, water, cleaning, bathing and companionship are the basic necessities in your household jungle. A good morning routine begins with routine cage cleaning and replenishing food and water. Soft, fresh foods, such as fruit, vegetables, cooked eggs, ready-to-cook bird food mixtures and even pasta should be fed early in the day, or at a time when uneaten portions can be removed after a few hours.
Pet birds enjoy being with their human companions, and morning is an ideal time to interact with your feathered friend. Permit it to sit with you while you eat breakfast. Share bits of toast or eggs. Place your bird on its stand or playgym so it can enjoy some time outside its cage. This is a great time for a bath; spritz your bird with a mist of plain, lukewarm water. If time permits, a short training session may be well accepted early in the day. If you’re not home early in the day, tailor your bird’s routine to your schedule.