When looking at bird, you must be aware of the ‘masking phenomenon’. Birds are, for the most part, a prey species (i.e., other animals eat them). A natural survival instinct, developed over millions of years, is to hide signs of illness from potential predators – including people (the ‘masking phenomenon’)….
Every year hundreds of birds suffer from health problems caused by their environment. Their human companions are often shocked (and horrified) when they discover that their bird has been exposed to a hazard in their own home, often a hazard of which they were not aware. Birds, in many ways,…
Companion birds are most commonly kept in indoor cages and enclosures, although some are housed in either temporary or permanent outdoor enclosures. These cages range from small (outdated) budgie cages to large steel framed macaw cages. Aviary birds are generally housed outdoors (in Australia) in either full-flight (a solid floor…
At some time, everyone who keeps birds will acquire a new bird – a new pet, a new breeder, a new bloodline. Usually all works out well; both parties (buyer and seller) are happy, and the bird does well in their new home. But this is not always the case….
Behaviour of wild birds There is an extensive body of literature devoted to observations of wild bird behaviour. While there are a lot of species-specific differences in the detail of birds’ daily behaviour, their routine is often consistent and usually includes the following elements: As the light increases with the…
Are birds the right companion animals for me? What is the right bird for me? There are plenty of studies that prove that birds are very intelligent [1]. They are very clever; they can comprehend and learn things; they can learn to use tools; they have excellent memory. They need…
Enrichment involves mentally and physically stimulating activities that engage an animal’s mind, body, and senses (e.g., smell, taste, sound, smell, touch). The RSPCA advocates for all animals to be provided with appropriate enrichment. Benefits of enrichment Enrichment is essential for the physical and mental health of all dogs and allows…
In Australia, most pigs are housed in intensive indoor systems. In these intensive systems, pigs may be confined and raised in barren environments, which leads to a higher risk of pigs experiencing poor welfare outcomes. Of particular concern are issues associated with the confinement of sows in sow stalls where…
In Australia, most pigs are housed in intensive indoor systems. In these intensive systems, pigs may be confined and raised in barren environments, which leads to a higher risk of pigs experiencing poor welfare outcomes. Of particular concern are issues associated with the confinement of sows in farrowing crates where…
Environmental enrichment has been defined as “the stimulation of the brain by its physical and social surroundings in an attempt to reduce or overcome problems caused by containment” [1–3]. Its goals are to alter the rabbit’s captive behaviour so that it is similar to the normal behaviour of rabbits in…