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Can I Find a Good Bird in a Pet Store?

Sure, reputable local stores often carry a great variety of pet birds, along with all the food and accessories you’ll need to keep your new friend happy and healthy. There are some things to watch out for when buying from a Bird Pet Store, though.

What to Look for in Bird and Pet Stores

Birds can carry and pass along infectious diseases very quickly, and the crowded conditions in some pet stores are breeding grounds for some very unhealthy animals. Take a look at the store’s current stock. Are their cages clean? Do they have enough room to move around and exercise?

Are birds of different species housed together? This is a warning sign that the pet store might not have the best interest of the birds at heart. All bird breeds need different types of food and care, and keeping several breeds in the same cage means someone’s not getting what they need. This can also lead to fighting and injuries among the birds.

Ask questions. If the staff seems uneducated or worse, disinterested, take your business elsewhere. A good pet store will have staff that seems to genuinely enjoy talking about their birds, and will be quite comfortable handling the birds and answering your questions.

If in doubt, ask your veterinarian or a local breeder for a recommendation. They’ll know the local gossip on what’s really going on in the Bird Pet Stores.