The Scoop

Adopt a Rescued Bird Month

January is Adopt a Rescued Bird Month. This month-long focus encourages people to look at shelters for their new bird companion, and is dedicated to helping birds find new long-term homes. Right now, there are over 1,600 birds on PetFinder available for adoption across the United States—and that only includes the shelters that choose to list their animals through PetFinder. 

From canaries to macaws, birds across the country are turned in to shelters when their owners decide they no longer want them; are unable to care for them properly due to changes in housing, physical ability, or financial situations; or even outlive their owners without having an arranged friend or family member willing to take over the bird's care.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a bird but aren’t sure which one is right for you, we encourage you to take your time and research all you can about having a pet bird before making your decision. MyRightBird's fun and interactive quiz can help match you with a bird that suits your lifestyle, and is a great starting point for learning more about the different species and all of their unique traits and needs. 

We also encourage you to ask yourself these questions:

  • Housing: Do I have enough space in my home for a bird cage? Am I allowed to have birds where I'm living and will there be extra fees for having a pet? How close are my neighbors, and how much noise can the walls handle without bothering them?
  • Time: Do you have enough time to commit to a bird? (Pet birds are more than just something pretty to look at: they need interaction too!)
  • Cost: How much can I spend on a bird? How much will care supplies cost per month? Can I afford regular visits to the exotic avian veterinarian for health check ups, nail clipping, and beak filing, if needed?
  • Health: Where is the nearest avian veterinarian located? 
  • Other People/Pets: Are my family or household members ready for a bird too? Will my other pets get along with a bird? Do I have a friend or family member willing to care for my bird in case something happens to me?

When you’re ready and confident that a bird is the right companion for you, contact your local shelters to see if they have any birds. No luck yet? Ask to leave your contact information just in case that changes. Most shelters are happy to give you a call when an animal comes in that matches what you're looking for.

Birds are very curious animals with unique personalities. For the right person, a bird can be a truly ideal long-term part of your family.

Are you a bird owner that agrees? Share this on Facebook and tell us what you love most about bird companions!