Summer time and the living is easy … These words from the famous blues song, “Summer Time,” may not seem as appropriate to people with companion parrots. It can be somewhat difficult to live with a parrot that is experiencing the hormonal pull of increased light and warmth in its environment.
In the wild, changes in the angle and amount of light and an increase in humidity signal the breeding season. These changes instinctively signal mature parrots that there will be abundant food to feed babies. Our companion parrots often respond to these same triggers in their environment. However, seasonal behavior can be more confusing for our parrots because of the fact that we control the environment in our homes with central heating, air conditioning, humidifiers and artificial lighting.
Most parrots become more exuberant as winter ends and spring turns into summer. At least some of this change in behavior is attributable to the fact that many of us become happier as the cold weather decreases. Bonded companion parrots definitely match our energy. Even if I was totally oblivious to the changes in weather, I would still know that summer was on its way by the many phone calls I receive from people inquiring about changes in their parrot’s behavior.
**For the full article, pick up the June issue of BIRD TALK**
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