 |
|
How we raise our
babies
Rita Groszmann and Mark Saunders, co-owners
of Avian Adventures Aviary, have been breeding
and raising large macaws and cockatoos since
1998.
As breeders of large macaws and cocktoos, we
believe in weaning our baby birds based on their
individual needs and rates of maturity. It is
very important to us that all our babies get
a good start in life both nutritionally and
psychologically. Therefore we provide the following
kinds of foods and socialization as they grow
and develop.
Handfeeding - Each
baby parrot is given a handfeeding formula that
is suited to their species and their individual
needs. They are exposed to different foods at
an early age to familiarize them with a large
variety of foods. This facilitates the weaning
process so that they recognize food in its different
forms and allows them to explore and experiment
with tastes and textures. As the weaning process
progresses, we make sure our babies never feel
insecure about having enough to eat, thereby
ensuring that they can focus more confidently
on exploring their world and learning all the
skills that will help them become superior companion
birds. Baby birds are weaned onto a daily diet
of Zupreme pellets, Volkman Seed (Super Hookbill
or Super Macaw), soft foods served warm (Crazy
Corn ®, mixed vegetables), mixed nuts (for
macaws), and fresh fruits and vegetables.
| Click on images to enlarge |
|
Socialization -
We believe that just as obedience training
makes dogs better companions, it is critical
to teach parrots basic manners and commands.
All our babies know "Step up," "down", "no" and "gentle".
They also know not to grab at clothes,
ears, jewelry or glasses. Since our hand-raised
babies will be lifetime companions, we
feel it is necessary to familiarize them
to common household noises, activities
and car travel. An added bonus is that
they will be familiar with cats, dogs and
other birds enabling them to adjust with
less stress to those households with other
pets. We accustom them to having their
wings and feet handled, enabling the owner/vet
to perform claw and wing clips with less
stress.
At Avian Adventures Aviary, our babies are used to traveling in kennel carriers
and cars from an earlyage. This makes it possible for travel to be an enjoyable
experience rather than a stressful one. Our own companion birds love traveling
in the car with us!
|
|
A wide variety of toys are
introduced at an early age to encourage
independent play and ongoing stimulation.
Our babies are exposed to different play
environments that help them develop their
coordination, balance and concentration
as well as providing them with good exercise
to build strength and a relaxed attitude.
|
|
 |
We believe baby parrots are
better off when they learn how to fly before
they are given a gradual wing clip. This
promotes confidence and stronger muscles
that are important to develop at this age.
Our walk-in, outdoor flight cage (25'L X
12'W X 7'H) pictured here
provides our babies with room to explore
and space to learn how to fly while enjoying
the sun and stimulation of being outside. |
 |
As breeders of large macaws and cocktoos,
we are committed to providing
our babies with
the best possible developmental start in life.
This includes not only a nutritionally sound
diet but also special care and attention to
their emotional and psychological needs.
A good
solid foundation of trust, clear but loving
guidance and consistent responses will help
your baby bird develop into a secure, confident
and loving lifetime companion.
|
|
|
|
