Bird Care in the UK

A budgie, cockatiel, finch and large parrot do not have identical diets or social needs. Find out the species and its normal food, activity pattern and companion needs before changing its routine. Register with an avian or exotics vet and keep a suitable carrier ready. Ask that vet for an individual plan if the bird is young, breeding, underweight or has an existing illness.

In England and Wales, keepers of captive birds generally need to register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency within one month. There is an exception for some species, including budgies, parrots, cockatiels, canaries and finches, when they are fully housed indoors with no access to open air. Check the current registration rules before taking a bird into an outdoor aviary.

Seed-only mixes can leave many parrots short of important nutrients. RSPCA advice describes suitable pellets, vegetables and limited seed for small parrots such as budgies and cockatiels; lories and lorikeets need a different nectar-based diet. A canary or finch also needs advice tailored to its species. Do not replace all familiar food overnight: some birds may fail to recognise a new food. Discuss a gradual transition with your avian vet and monitor weight and droppings during the change.

Offer clean, fresh water every day. Wash bowls and remove spoiled fresh food promptly. Place food so the bird can forage rather than only eating from one fixed dish. Ask your vet to check unfamiliar foods before offering them, especially human foods, supplements or items sold for another species. Our bird diet guide explains the next steps in more detail.

Choose the largest practical, secure enclosure that lets the bird extend its wings and move between perches. Horizontal space, safe varied perches, bathing opportunities and species-appropriate toys matter more than decorative cage shape. Give supervised time to fly or exercise in a prepared room when this is safe for the bird. Close windows and doors, cover hazards, and keep other pets away during exercise.

Keep the enclosure clean and well ventilated. Remove droppings and leftover food daily; clean equipment with bird-safe products and rinse it thoroughly. Position the enclosure away from cooking fumes, draughts and direct overheating. Social needs vary: some smaller birds can live compatibly in groups, while placing unfamiliar large parrots together may cause serious fighting. Introduce companions with informed advice rather than assuming every bird wants a cage mate.

Notice what is normal for your bird: how much it eats and drinks, the amount and appearance of droppings, its posture, activity and voice. A bird that is quiet, fluffed up, sitting low, losing weight or producing fewer droppings may be ill even without an obvious injury. Changes in breathing, tail bobbing, discharge, straining or a weak grip need veterinary advice. Do not diagnose a possible infection or egg binding from a checklist alone; see our bird respiratory guide and egg-binding guide for what to tell the vet.