How to Hand-Raise Parrots

Knowing how to hand raise parrots and other domesticated birds is essential if you are going to breed birds. In a natural environment, a mother bird's instinct, coupled with the natural environment, is adequate. When parrots are in captivity, however, parrot owners need to monitor essential needs such as housing, feeding and weaning. This will take specialized equipment, which you can find at most local stores. Mostly, though, it will require time and attention.

Things You'll Need

  • Housing
  • Heating pads
  • Lights
  • Cotton balls
  • Parrot food
  • Scale
  • Thermometer
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Instructions

  1. Housing

    • 1

      Provide adequate housing for the baby parrot. This can be as simple as a cardboard box.

    • 2

      Maintain the proper temperature, ideally between 55 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 3

      Place a heating pad in the housing area to provide heat. Adding lights will help to provide heat.

    • 4

      Provide adequate humidity. Adding cotton balls in a dish of water will keep the housing area from becoming too dry.

    Diet

    • 5

      Provide nutrition to the baby parrot. Although there are no nutritional guideline requirements, follow the guidelines found in commercially prepared parrot food in your local store.

    • 6

      Make homemade parrot food comes from recipes found on aviary websites or books at your local library or pet store. This is ideal for owners who prefer to go the more natural route for feeding.

    • 7

      Consult with an experienced aviculturist. The aviculturist will provide advice and tips for the diet of your hand-raised parrot.

    Feeding

    • 8

      Follow a feeding schedule for your baby parrot. This is especially important for the newborn birds.

    • 9

      Weigh your birds first thing every morning. Record the weights and monitor them daily to watch for excessive weight loss or gain.

    • 10

      Prepare food immediately before feeding. Discard any leftover food. Do not save the remaining food for future feedings.

    • 11

      Heat the parrot food to between 85 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid heating in microwave ovens, as this can cause hotspots.

    Weaning

    • 12

      Watch for signs of your parrot to be ready for weaning. This will include nibbling of toes or other material.

    • 13

      Place foods in bowls inside the parrot's habitat. These foods can include soft table scraps such as bread, vegetables, corn on the cob, raisins and fruit.

    • 14

      Continue to monitor the weight of your parrot. It is common for the parrot to lose 15 percent of its weight during the weaning process.

    • 15

      Contact your veterinarian if the weight loss of your parrot during the weaning process is excessive.