Birds, surprisingly or not, are one of the most popular pets in our country. No less than 9% of Aussie households own a pet bird, which equates to no less than 4.4 million pet birds, all over the country. Plus, the vast majority of the households that own pet birds tend to have more than one, as parrots, for example, are social creatures, and their physical and behavioural development is often strongly interconnected with the social structures they form with other members of the same species.
Around 60% of all pet birds in our country are held indoors, in cages. And in a survey conducted by Animals Medicine Australia, 37% of respondents reported keeping birds as pets for their company, while 23% said it was mostly for mental health benefits. Pet birds, like parrots are, for many Australians, a viable alternative to more, let’s say demanding animals, such as birds or cats.
We live busy lives, and chances are you don’t have the necessary free time to walk your dog multiple times per day. Likewise, maybe you don’t want to deal with the fickle nature of cats, or you’re a bit too attached to your grandma’s favourite drapes, and a kitty sounds like too much trouble for your taste. Birds are gentle and affectionate creatures that can form genuine connections with their handlers and that are also surprisingly cheap to own. Granted, you will need to invest in bird perches, a spacious cage, and versatile bird toys. But all in all, the ownership costs for birds are much lower than for other pets, such as dogs or cats.
How Much Are We Talking About?
Australians spend around $21 billion per year on their pets’ well-being. We are one of the most pet-friendly countries in the world, and on average, the costs per pet in our nation are significantly higher than in other territories in the Southern hemisphere. But not all ownership costs are the same.
Are you the owner of a small but adorable kitty? Well, on average, according to Moneysmart, you can expect to pay around $1,656 per year for her development. Are you a dog owner? In that case, your costs will be closer to $2,520. Not an outrageous amount, but still considerable. But how about a pet bird?
Less Than You Think
The ownership costs will depend, of course, on what bird species you go for, and how much you want to splurge on accessories like bird perches and bird toys. But, on average, the ownership costs of a pet bird should be under $1,000 per year. Plus, compared to other pets, birds are more likely to be accepted in rental properties. You will still, of course, need to invest in bird food, supplements, cages, and the occasional vet visit. That said, for the vast majority of Australians, birds are a more cost-friendly type of pet.
When I moved into my first apartment and wanted some companionship, I contemplated getting a cat, as, to be perfectly honest, I can’t consider myself a cat person. Common sense prevailed, and eventually, I went for a cockatiel, which I named Molly. Last year, I spent $500 on her supplies. Which, I have to say, I think it’s more than reasonable. Plus, another factor in my decision was that birds live surprisingly long.
Budgies, on average, live to be around 10 years. But other parrots, such as cockatoos, can reach more than 50 years in age, while African greys can live to be older than 60. The oldest parrot on record, verified by Guinness World Records, was a cockatoo named Cookie, who lived to the ripe old age of 82. Birds can, in some cases, be lifelong companions, and for this reason, they are a fantastic pet choice. Molly, for example, is now 10 years old, and she doesn’t look like it’s slowing down. Quite the contrary, in fact.
Why Should You Worry About Bird Perches?
Surprisingly, for your small feathered companions, bird perches are more than just a cozy place to sit. They can, in fact, directly impact your pet’s physical development and provide the mental stimulation required when you are away, at work. The vast majority of your bird’s leisure time will be spent on perches.
So, it will make sense to invest in a high-quality one that properly supports the bird’s weight and does not put pressure on the bird, which could affect its overall health. Plastic, cheap-looking bird perches have a role in the apparition of arthritis, and in severe cases, can even affect your bird’s blood circulation. Sure, the effect will not be dramatic. Your bird will be fine for a while. But, after a couple of years of sitting on the same perches, these little imperfections in build and rigidity could start to bear their mark.
Why Risk a New Vet Bill?
High-quality, textured perches can keep your bird’s nails from overgrowing, can help with beak maintenance, and will also help with grip and muscle strength, as the differences in diameter will have a direct impact on your bird’s coordination. But, on top of that, high-quality bird perches are necessary for improving your bird’s behavioural characteristics and giving her an avenue to escape boredom.
Perches, in a way, are like bird toys. They can enhance the environment of the bird cage, help your pet feel closer to nature, and improve posture and rest comfort. Birds are intelligent creatures that need constant stimulation in order to develop properly. Are perches and bird toys enough on their own? No. But they help tremendously.
How Can I Know I’ve Made the Right Choice?
Just as it is the case with bird toys, the right perch will need to follow the physical characteristics of your bird. Perches designed for macaws, for example, will not be exactly suitable for a cannery. You need to go for a perch that’s appropriate for your bird’s expected maximum size. So, if you are the owner of a cockatiel, a perch with a diameter of around 15mm should be just right. But if you own an African grey, you will need to think bigger and go for a perch that’s at least 5mm larger.
The toes of your bird should not overlap underneath. That would be a sign that you went for a perch that’s way too small. Likewise, you should only go for perches that try to replicate the bird’s outdoor environment. Natural wood perches, in this sense, are a safe bet. But you can also consider hemp ropes.
