Birds are some of the most popular pets in the United States, along with cats, dogs, and freshwater fish. People enjoy birds' brightly colored feathers, cleverness, and cheerful personalities. January is Adopt a Rescued Bird Month, and with so many feathered former pets in shelters nationwide, if you have been thinking about bird adoption, this may be the perfect time. However, adopting a pet bird is a serious undertaking. You should be sure that you are ready by knowing what to expect when you bring a rescued bird into your home.

1. Birds Can Live for Many Years

Bird lifespans vary by species, but large parrots can live up to 100 years. Even smaller birds can live decades. This is good news if you are worried about pet longevity. It means that your feathered friend will be with you for many years—much longer than a cat or a dog would.

Unfortunately, this is also the reason that many pet birds end up in shelters. Long-lived species may outlive their owners. Before you adopt a rescued bird, you should know how old it is and how long it is likely to live. Only if you are willing to make a lifelong commitment should you have a bird as a pet. Once you make that commitment, you should give instructions for what should happen to your bird in the event of your death as part of your estate plan.

2. Some Behaviors Can Be Disruptive

Some people find a bird's vocalizations charming, while others find them annoying. All birds make some noise, so you should be sure that you can live with this before committing to bird adoption. You should also be aware that birds tend to wake up very early in the morning and make noise until you feed them. If you are not an early riser yourself, you may be able to modify this behavior with a cloth cover that blocks out the light.

Some birds also demonstrate behavioral problems that are not normal, such as trying to rip apart their cages or screaming. These could be signs of a medical problem or of boredom. Birds are very intelligent and need mental stimulation on a daily basis.

3. Birds' Respiratory Systems Are Very Sensitive

Birds are sensitive to fumes given off by chemicals such as certain cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and scented candles. When you have a bird in the house, you must refrain from using any products that may harm them, which includes not smoking. Even cookware with nonstick coating can give off fumes when heated, so this should not be used in a home with a pet bird.

4. Bird Adoption Means Giving Lots of Attention

While you do not need to devote every waking moment to your pet bird, you do have to make a significant time commitment. In addition to feeding your bird and cleaning its cage, you also have to socialize with it for several hours a day. This is necessary for a bird's physical health as well as mental health. It also helps birds to maintain the good habits they have learned from humans, which is beneficial to you.

Support for Bird Adoption

When you adopt a bird, you get lots of love and affection in return. However, you do need help keeping your new pet healthy, both now and in the future. Exotic pet care is just one of the services we provide at Pet Hospitals of Hawaii. Visit us at one of our three locations.