Courtesy of the ASPCA

Each year thousands of birds are sold to individuals who are under the mistaken impression that a bird makes a perfect pet. Eventually, whether due to frustration, disinterest or concern, many people attempt to rid themselves of caring for their birds.

Unfortunately, few of these birds will find a loving home and most will spend their days isolated and confined to cages. Others will bounce from home to home as caretakers tire of them. Some may be abandoned at local shelters and birds rescue centers. Some may be set free to fend for themselves or some euthanized.

ASPCA experts recommend several species for first-time companion bird caretakers. They have very different personalities, so you’ll have to do a little research to find the bird that best fits your family’s lifestyle.

• "I want my bird to talk." African Gray parrots and Amazon parrots are considered the best talkers, but there is no guarantee that your bird will talk. Birds who speak the most are those who are spoken to most often.

• If interaction’s a big attraction, consider budgies and cockatiels. Budgies, commonly though erroneously known as parakeets, are the most popular avian species kept as pets — and with good reason. This gentle friend will enjoy perching on your shoulder, and can be taught to mimic words and household noises. Great first birds for children! At 11 to 14 inches long, cockatiels are about twice the size of budgies and have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They’re smart, love to be doted on by their human families, and often are willing talkers.

Diet
Although seed has been the traditional staple of a bird’s diet, most experts recommend pellets. Seed mixes provide variety, but they do not always provide optimum nutrition and are definitely on the messy side. We recommend a high-quality pelleted food that’s formulated for your bird’s species. Be sure to offer fresh veggies and fruits to your bird every day. Dark, leafy greens are packed with vitamins. Many birds also enjoy carrots and broccoli. Common fruity faves are apples, pears, melon and kiwi. Take care to remove any uneaten food after a couple of hours, and do not give your bird avocado, cherry pits, rhubarb or apple seeds. Fresh, cold water should be available at all times. Change it at least once a day, preferably twice.

Exercise and Toys
If your cockatiel or budgie has been properly tamed and trained, she’ll need at least an hour of exercise out of the cage in a safe, enclosed room every day. She may just want to hang out on your shoulder or enjoy exploring. Be sure to always secure a room first by shutting all windows and doors and covering any windows or mirrors so your bird cannot accidentally fly into them.

Even though finches and canaries do not take to handling and do not need time out every day, they will appreciate a revolving selection of toys — as do cockatiels and budgies. Small birds may enjoy ladders, swings and mirrors with bells. Wooden chew toys are great for keeping beaks trimmed. Toys should be labeled at stores for specific birds, but don’t hesitate to ask if you are unsure.

What you can do:

Adopt a bird from a shelter or avian rescue group. Call your local shelter and search on sites such as www.petfinder.com and Avian Rescue online http://www.avianrescue.org for birds in need of loving homes. Pictured are a parrot and two budgies.