New Parrot Checklist: Everything You Need Before Your Bird Comes Home
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Bringing home your first parrot is exciting. Having everything ready before your bird arrives makes the first days less stressful for both of you. Here's a complete checklist.
The home
- A properly sized cage. Bigger is better, and bar spacing must match your bird's size. See how to choose the right bird cage.
- Perches in different sizes. Natural wood perches are best for feet. Our Full Length Natural Wood Perch fits A&E cages.
- Food and water cups. Most quality cages include stainless steel cups.
- A cage cover or a quiet spot for sleeping.
- Cage liner or plain paper for the tray.
Food
- A balanced daily food. Ask what your bird has been eating and start with the same food, then transition gradually if needed. Our Ultimate Blends come in versions for every size of bird.
- Fresh vegetables. See bird-safe fruits and vegetables.
- Treats for bonding and training, like spray millet for small birds or pine nuts for parrots.
- A calcium source like a cuttlebone.
Enrichment
- A few chew toys, a foraging toy and something to climb.
- In-shell nuts for foraging. See foraging with in-shell nuts.
Cleaning
- Bird-safe cleaners. The A&E Cleaner Bundle covers everything.
- A small scrub brush for perches and dishes.
Health
- A gram scale to weigh your bird weekly.
- An avian vet. Find one before you need one, and schedule a new-bird checkup.
- A travel carrier for vet visits.
Before your bird comes home
- Choose a cage spot away from the kitchen and drafts. See how to set up your bird's cage.
- Learn which foods and household items are dangerous. See foods that are toxic to parrots.
- Consider replacing nonstick cookware, which gives off fumes that are deadly to birds when overheated.