The destruction of the wild habitats of parakeets is proving baneful, in recent years. If parakeets have emerged as being among the most popular pets, the main reason is their lovable social behavior. The keeping of parakeets as pets is a relatively new phenomenon. Compare this with canines, which have been considered man's best friends for centuries. But it's undisputable that the colorful and lovable avian has emerged as serious competition for the rest of the pets. Apart from imitating human words and voices, these fearless birds are also wonderful acrobats. They can spend hours, playing with toys, swinging on their perches, and climbing their cages. It is possible for humans to touch them, as parakeets consider it, as an expression of partnership. Like dogs, they are loyal and loving. Studies of Quakers, (a variety of popular parakeet), in the wild, Social pets Nesting habits Introduction have shown that fledglings rarely distance themselves, more than 500 yards from their parent's nest site, when they build their own nests. One remarkable feature of the nesting habits of the birds, is that they choose sites in the vicinity of year-round food supplies. Usually, the nests are located among an abundance of large trees, close to a large body of water. Parakeets prefer to attach their new nests to already existing structures in hollows of old trees, termite buildings or hollows of steep riverbanks and mountain slopes. Weak and helpless at the time of hatching, just as any other winged species, parakeets take a long time to develop, until fledging. This is typical for birds which nest in hollows. Depending on the environment, there is a more or less clearly defined breeding season. Eggs are normally white in color. Certain ornithologists are of the view that parakeets will eventually take over the wild habitats of native birds such as owls and sparrows. Also, they fear the destruction of farms and other vegetation, by these robust and adaptable birds. But there is no proof to support this belief. Fledging Introduction These birds are very hardy creatures, and most of their diseases can be traced to wrong diets, and inadequate care. You should be aware of the responsibilities that go with owning a bird. A parakeet owner should be educated in the caring and diet specifications of the bird. And as we take care of our own children, we should also pay attention to our pet and be able to understand immediately, when anything is wrong with them, by noticing the subtle signs of illness. They have very few behavior problems if they are properly taken care of. 6 points to remember when you buy a parakeet = = = = Introduction Interesting Myths There are a lot of myths surrounding these birds, the most common one being that parakeets show no signs of illness, until the very end. Another one is about parakeets being very frail and weak. The fact is that parakeet owners usually don't pay close enough attention to notice the symptoms until it is too late, or in some cases, the veterinarian makes a mistake in diagnosing the problem. Parakeets are known to live for over 30 years. = = Treat your bird as a member of your family. If and when your beloved pet falls sick, a competent avian veterinarian is the person to consult. |