July/August 2012 President’s Perch
Volume XXV, No. 3 Just as we all thought that the heat and humidity of summer would never end, Labor Day arrived and suddenly fall is in the air and things are changing yet again. Certainly Inside this issue: August was an interesting month for our club. Laura Barwick, Melody Appleby and I all flew out to San Antonio, Texas to attend the 2012 American Federation of Aviculture’s 2011 Speakers & 3 annual meeting and convention. For Laura and I, it was a chance to meet up with old Programs and Upcoming friends and start our preparations for this coming year’s Convention. For Melody, it Events was a whole new experience and one I think she enjoyed, in spite of working with the Meeting Minutes 4 rest of us non‐stop at the AFA Raffle table. It would be difficult to single out the most Exotic Animal Medical 6 significant moment we shared there. We were able to see the lutino mutation blue Service at NC State Vet and gold macaws, live and up close in a $14,000 custom tbuil cage, the Atwater’s Prai‐ School rie Chicken Conservation Project at the San Antonio Zoo, not open to the public, and Lighting, Diet & 8 spend time with some of the world’s most respected Aviculturists. Raleigh‐Durham Vitamin D3 Caged Bird Society was mentioned time and time again in several speaker‘s talks and Most People Not Famil- 12 everyone made us understand that they were looking forward to spending time with us iar With Large Parrots Fail To See The “Big here in Raleigh at next year’s Convention. By the time we left, exhausted but happy, it Picture” was clear that we’ve got a tough act to follow next August!
Classified Ads 18 Membership Application 21 But first, we’ve got a whole lot ahead for us still this fall and it’s going to take our entire club’s best efforts to make it all happen. September will see Dr. Dan Johnson of Avian and Exotic Animal Care speaking to us on a vet‐related topic and doing a vet check for
all birds who’ll be participating in our exhibit boothe at th North Carolina State Fair. UPCOMING EVENTS We’re proud to be able to have our veterinary health certificate for all the display birds because it shows this club’s commitment to good health and proper care of all our Sept 16th - 2:30 Speaker: Dr. Dan Johnson birds, pets and breeders alike. Make yourself a part of our club’s public face by volun‐ Avian & Exotic Animal Care Species: Cockatoos (Continued on page 2)
Oct 21st - 2:30 Speaker: Mark Sargent Species: Pionus Officers and Board of Directors for 2012
Nov 18th - 2:30 Elections President‐‐ April Blazich ‐ (919) 851‐8079 ‐ [email protected] Speaker: Steve Stone Immediate Past President‐ Carol Wilson ‐ (919) 552‐8856 ‐ [email protected] American Wildlife Refuge Species: None Vice President‐ Laura Marquis ‐ (919) 266‐0906 ‐ [email protected] PLEASE DO NOT BRING Secretary‐‐ Laetitia Ulick ‐ [email protected] BIRDS TO THIS MEETING!!! Treasurer‐‐ Mike Kelly ‐ (919) 732‐9606 ‐ [email protected]
December 16th - 1:00 Board (‘11‐’15)‐‐ (Chair) John Marquis ‐ (919) 266‐0906 ‐ [email protected] Christmas Potluck & Board ('10‐‘14)‐‐ Angela Parrish ‐ (336) 269‐3934 ‐ [email protected] Raffle Board ('08‐'12)‐‐ Terry Perry ‐ (919) 639‐4575 ‐ [email protected] Species: Pets Board ('09‐'13) Wendy Edwards ‐ (919) 219‐8444 ‐ [email protected] Volume XXV, No. 3 The Carolina Parakeet Page 2
President’s Perch (cont.) teering for a shift at the State Fair tent this year. You’ll have a wonderful time and so will your birds, and you’ll be helping to earn your club a donation from the State Fair for doing a public service information experience. Be sure to contact John Marquis, our webmaster for the sign‐up sheet and more information.
October offers the chance to hear another renowned speaker, Mark Sargent, who’ll share with us his incredible ex‐ periences at Loro Parque, in the Canary Islands at the once‐every‐four‐year International Bird Conference. This is a true “Bucket List” event for bird lovers world‐wide and Mark’s photographs and stories are wonderful and not to be missed. November is a very important meeting for everyone because it is the annual election of officers and the grant allocations for 2012. But there is a treat in store for those who come to vote; a chance to see some extraordi‐ nary raptors and learn from their keeper. Because the raptors will be very much in evidence, it’s required that all your pet birds remain at home for this one meeting.
Everyone knows that December brings parties, presents and treats and our December meeting will be no different! Bring new or gently used, clean items for our huge Christmas time raffle to raise money for more great speakers for next year’s meetings and a big plate /bowl of something delicious to share at our annual Holiday feast. The bird of the month will be turkey, but ham is usually on the menu as well. Every year the food gets better and better, so be sure to come and join in the fun!
It’s hard to realize how quickly 2012 has gone for our club, and how fast 2013 will be here. As a club we’ll be center stage for the whole bird world to see due to our role as host club for the AFA Convention. It will also be our 25th An‐ niversary as a fully functional club although we’ll be passing that milestone at our 25th Annual Pet Bird Fair! I think we all need to wear something silver to celebrate next May!
There aren’t many clubs who have made it this far and remained true to their origins. RDCBS has a lot to be proud of and we’ve never turned away from the original goals of Education, Conservation and Captive Breeding. Make your own celebrations for next year and try to share those goals with those around you every chance you get. The future of Aviculture is less certain every year with increased loss of habitat and ever greater restrictions on pet bird owner‐ ship and breeding. We enjoy and love our pets not only for ourselves right now, but in hopes that we’ll still be enjoy‐ ing them far into the future by sharing our knowledge with interested others and continuing to promote good pet care and general husbandry.
Keep your feathers bright, April Blazich President Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 3 2012 Speakers & Programs
Date Speaker/Program Species of the Month September 16 Dr. Dan Johnson Cockatoos October 21 Mark Sargent Pionus November 18 Steve Stone/American Wildlife Refuge DO NOT BRING BIRDS TO THIS MEETING! December 16 Christmas Potluck & Raffle Pet Birds
Upcoming Events
October 15-16 Mountain States Avian Society, 4th Annual Show, Adams County Fairgrounds, Al Lesser Memorial Bldg, 9755 Henderson, Brighton, CO, Love Birds, Cockatiels, Parrots and Finches; for more info: www.msasbirds.org
October 20 Baltimore Bird Fanciers, 72nd Annual Bird Show & Mart, Tall Cedars of Lebanon Hall, Baltimore, MD; judging American Singers, Type Canaries, Colorbred Canaries, Finches, Love Birds, Cockatiels and Hookbills. For more info: [email protected] or http://www.baltimorebirdfanciers.org/FallBirdShow.htm
October 20-21 Smoky Mountain Cage Bird Society, The Fall Feathered Festival, 39th Bird Fair & Sale, Collett Street Recreation Center, Morganton, NC; for more info (828) 433-8036 or e-mail [email protected]
October 27 Chester County Bird Club’s 24th Annual Show and Mart, 880 Springdale Drive, Exton, PA (across the road from the old location), shopping extravaganza in the bird mart and double shows for Parrots, Cockatiels, Finches and Love Birds; for more info: http://www.ccbirdclub.com
November 10-11 Greater Charlotte Cage Bird Society Winter Bird Expo & Sale, The North Carolina Army National Guard, Belmont, NC; for more information contact Brenda Keels at 704-221- 2736 or Tony Jones at 704-812-8283.
November 15-17 National Cage Bird Show, Millennium Hotel St. Louis, 200 South 4th Street, St. Louis, MO, for more info: www.ncbs.org Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 4
Meeting Minutes Meeting Minutes prepared and JUNE 2012 Old Business Angi Parrish respectfully submitted * July Meeting ‐ Dr. Flam‐ Wendy Edwards Attendance by Laetitia Ulick, Club mer has confirmed for the April Blazich Angi Parrish July 15th meeting. He has Secretary Laura Marquis April Blazich invited us to come see the new avian facility at NCSU Mike Kelly John Marquis Vet school. Board meeting Laetitia Ulick Laura Marquis to be at Glen Eden Park. General membership will Wendy Edwards meet us at the facility. Treasurer's Report Mike Kelly * August meeting is the * All outstanding checks Laetitia Ulick picnic and raffle have cleared Carol Wilson * September meeting ‐ Dr. * Insurance has been paid Open Positions: Terry Perry Johnson to vet‐check birds through November for the State Fair booth. * Outstanding payments ‐ Photographer * October meeting ‐ Judy Treasurer’s Report final bill from the Fair‐ Calhoun has contacted grounds (which has not Librarian * All deposits are in Mark Sargeant. been received); donation * 2‐year pre‐pay on the * November meeting ‐ to Steve Stone for his up‐ Public Information Bird Fair domain name Steve Stone, speaker fee coming talk at our meeting Officer (petbirdfair.com); to be proceeds will go to his or‐ * Two checks received that
documented as an asset. ganization, American Wild‐ will be deposited to bring Visitor Orientation/ life Refuge, elections P&L up to date Introduction * No outstanding checks * Reimbursement for bird * December meeting – Raf‐ fle and potluck Please contact a Club fair supplies issued New Business Officer if you are * Discussion of Bylaw * Final payment for Kerr * Grants: John Marquis interested in serving in changes ‐ John Marquis Scott Bldg to be issued makes a motion that this any of these positions makes a motion that we year we offer one (1) place the new bylaws on $1000 grant, one (1) $750 Bird Fair Preliminary the November ballot; Angi grant, and one (1) $500 Parrish seconds; passed * Successful raffle; dona‐ grant. Carol Wilson sec‐ unanimously. tions and memberships at onds this motion and the door were very good; pay‐ motion passes unani‐ ment for all vendor booths JULY 2012 mously. have been received. * Candidates running for
election in November New Business Present: could be summarized in * Laetitia Ulick will do an John Marquis the Newsletter attendance report for the Board meetings at the next Carol Wilson * Suggestion was made meeting. Terry Perry that at a future meeting (possibly September), Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 5
Meeting Minutes members may speak for or review and finalize to the bylaws and discuss against organizations changes based on feed‐ upcoming elections; spe‐ which have applied for back from the board and cies of the month is Cocka‐ grants. club members. toos. * The Website (RDCBS.org) * October: Speaker‐Mark – Bylaws : http:// Tentative Plans for Future Sargent; species of the rdcbs.org/Portals/0/ Meetings: month is Pionus. Documents/BYLAWS.pdf; * August: The meeting * November: Speaker‐ added a “How Do I...?” tab, begins at 1pm; potluck Steve Stone from Ameri‐ would like suggestions for picnic, raffle, and post bird can Wildlife Refuge; elec‐ this tab. John Marquis fair discussion, grants, and tions; NO SPECIES OF THE demonstrated a few of the upcoming NC State Fair. MONTH, DO NOT BRING new features of the web‐ The bird of the month is BIRDS TO THIS MEETING. site which makes it easier Pet Birds. for the Webmaster. * December: Christmas *September: Dr. Dan potluck and raffle, species * New Bylaws: The current Johnson from Avian and of the month is Pets. Bylaws are now on the Exotic Animal Care to vet website. At the Septem‐ check birds for the NC ber BOD meeting, we will State Fair; finalize changes
Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 7 Volume XXV, No. 3 The Carolina Parakeet Page 8
Lighting, Diet & Vitamin D3
Internet article required. and fortified foods like milk. Egg is the only item Sunshine, diet and on that list that is normally Vitamin D3 is an essential It's hard to find informa‐ lighting are crucial offered to birds, and the nutrient that plays a vital tion on how much sunlight amount of egg in the diet to our bird’s role in calcium absorption. a bird needs for vitamin D should be limited to avoid But the body acquires this production, but the recom‐ problems from excessive health and well vitamin in an unusual way, mendations seem to range amounts of cholesterol, being! which means that it can from 30 minutes a week to fat, and protein. sometimes be difficult to 30 minutes a day. provide this nutrient to our But pellets and Nutriber‐ birds. ries are an excellent die‐ Use sensible precautions tary source of vitamin D3. when giving your bird These manufactured proc‐ Sunshine sunlight. Avoid tempera‐ essed foods are designed tures that are too hot or Wild birds get their vitamin to be nutritionally com‐ too cold, and always pro‐ D primarily through a bio‐ plete, and will provide ade‐ vide a shady spot that your chemical reaction with quate D3 if your bird is bird can retreat to if it's sunlight. When the bird willing to eat a sufficient uncomfortable. Guard preens, it puts oil from the quantity of them. against hazards like es‐ uropygial gland on its capes, predators, and ex‐ feathers. This oil contains a Vitamin D2 is found in posure to germs and dan‐ vitamin D precursor which plant sources including the gerous objects. is converted to a weak grains and seeds that make form of vitamin D3 by ul‐ up much of the diet of spe‐ traviolet (UV) light from It's difficult for many pet cies including cockatiels, the sun. The bird ingests owners to give their birds budgies, and conures. But the precursor enough exposure to natu‐ this form of the vitamin is (cholecalciferol)g durin ral sunlight to meet their not utilized well by birds. preening and it is con‐ vitamin D3 needs. But for‐ verted to true vitamin D3 tunately there are other Caution must be used with (1,25‐ ways to provide it. dietary D3 supplements. It dihydroxycholecalciferol) is impossible to overdose
in the body. with light‐based D3 Diet sources. But supplemental Poultry industry practices (dietary) D3 is a fat soluble When sunlight passes have proved that dietary vitamin, which means that through window glass and sources of vitamin D3 are a amounts that are not used window screens they filter very effective way to pro‐ immediately are stored in out most of the ultraviolet, vide this vital nutrient. But the body. If fed in excess it so sunshine that passes there aren't very many can lead to vitamin toxicity through a window will not natural food sources of and can contribute to hy‐ help our birds produce the vitamin D3 ‐ mostlyn certai percalcemia (too much vitamin D they need. Di‐ types of fish oil, liver, eggs, calcium in the blood), rect unfiltered sunlight is Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 9
Lighting, Diet & Vitamin D3 (cont.)
yond the vitamin D issue, Why Use Artificial Light tensity per meter squared, which affects the heart, so it should be considered Bird Lighting Hotspots which is probably incom‐ liver, kidneys and other for indoor birds even if prehensible to the average organs, and contributes to their vitamin D needs are Are Vita‐Lites for Real bird owner. gout. Pellets and Nutriber‐ being met in other ways. Light Right/Using FS Light‐ ries already contain appro‐ ing With Birds priate amounts of D3 and The UVB issue. Ultraviolet Many bird owners have calcium, and if you are light is divided into three reported improved mood, feeding these foods you subcategories: lower Dr Thrush discounts the energy, and feather color should never give vitamin wavelength UVA, middle importance of UVB for vi‐ after they started using full supplements containing wavelength UVB, and tamin D purposes and spectrum lights, which D3, calcium, or other over‐ higher wavelength UVC. seems to feel that the vita‐ may be due to the general dose‐prone nutrients. UVB is the wavelength in‐ min D2 from seeds is a similarity to natural volved in vitamin D synthe‐ good source of raw mate‐ sunlight rather than any‐ It's all right to provide a sis. rial if the bird also has ac‐ thing specifically related to calcium source such as cut‐ Dr. Patrick Thrush is gener‐ cess to dietary sources of UVB. tlebone or mineral block to ally considered to be the D3. He feels that providing birds with a varied diet leading authority on birds a consistent visually‐ Many avian veterinarians (seeds, vegetables, less and lighting, so his opin‐ balanced light source for recommend full spectrum than 50% pellets), and to ions will be extensively birds is more important to lighting but there are some provide bird‐safe levels of considered here. However, their health and well‐being who don't think it is useful. UVB light in addition to he did his work in the than attempting to use The reason for these dietary sources of vitamin 1990s so it may be some‐ UVB as a dietary supple‐ doubts might be the prob‐ D. what outdated at this time ment. lems involved in delivering ‐ see his website here for a the UVB. For vitamin D3 Full Spectrum Lighting full list of articles. His doc‐ He believes that full spec‐ purposes the light must be Full spectrum lighting pro‐ torate is in sociology and trum lighting is important placed within two feet of vides ultraviolet light and he is/was a professor at for regulating the bird's the bird since the UVB is generally believed to be the University of Kentucky, general biochemistry and doesn't travel very far, and a good substitute for natu‐ so he did his work on birds metabolism and to provide the bulb's ability to pro‐ ral sunlight. But its useful‐ and lighting as an inter‐ an appropriate visual envi‐ duce UVB declines rapidly ness for birds has not been ested amateur not a pro‐ ronment. UVA is part of in a fairly short period of documented scientifically, fessional scientist. But his the visual spectrum of time (usually 3 to 6 and there are some ques‐ work is respected and sev‐ birds so it makes sense months), long before there tions about its effective‐ eral of his articles ap‐ that having it will contrib‐ are any problems with the ness for vitamin D pur‐ peared in the NCS ute to their well‐being. rest of the bulb's output. poses. So it would be wise (National Cockatiel Soci‐ to use it in conjunction ety) Journal. The articles with proven sources most relevant to the cur‐ UVA travels farther than Because the bulb has to be (sunlight and/or diet) to rent discussion are: UVB, so distance from the placed so close to thed bir help assure that your bird's cage is less important for for UVB purposes, it is im‐ vitamin D needs are being The Ultraviolet Myth UVA purposes than it is for portant to have an area in met. The possible benefits UVB. The ideal goal is to the cage where the bird Lighting and Your Bird of FS lighting go well be‐ provide 100 lumens of in‐ can get out of the glare if it Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 10
Lighting, Diet & Vitamin D3 (cont.) wants to. emissions. Supplemental at providing UVB because Several types of light fix‐ UVA can be provided with the short tube length did‐ a small black light, which n't provide enough space What characteristics tures are available: fixtures that hang from the ceiling emits in the near UVA but for the necessary technol‐ should the light have? does not emit UVB. Dr. ogy, and there is no subse‐ There is a lot of conflicting on a chain (sometimes called shop lights), stand‐ Thrush says that ordinary quent information indicat‐ information about what fluorescents are deficient ing that this has changed. kind of full spectrum light‐ ing lamps, and fixtures that clamp to the cage or sit on at the red end of the spec‐ ing is best for birds. But it trum, so full spectrum seems to be generally top of the cage. As with The major brands of full any electrical device, your fluorescents are needed to agreed that the following fill this need. spectrum lights marketed is ideal: bird should not have ac‐ specifically for birds are cess to the cord. Putting It should have a CRI (color Feather Brite and ZooMed the light on a timer and/or But some lights that call Avian Sun. The Feather rendering index) of 90 or dimmer will give you easy more, preferably 95‐98. themselves full spectrum Brite website states that control over the amount of are only talking about the their light has a CRI of 91 Natural sunlight has a CRI artificial light your birds of 100. human visual spectrum, and color temperature of receive. which is more limited than 5500K, as well as UVA of the avian visual spectrum 4% and UVB of .05%, A color temperature of Which bulb should be and does not include UV. which is close to sunlight 5000K is considered to be used? This is where it gets Some bulbs that call them‐ and appropriate for birds. perfect but temperatures messy. As mentioned ear‐ selves daylight, sunlight, As stated earlier, ZooMed up to 5500 or so are OK. lier, the effectiveness of FS natural light, etc will also does not provide informa‐ 5500K is the color tem‐ lighting in providing UVB is say full spectrum some‐ tion online, but other perature of the sun at questionable, and some where on the label, but internet sources say t tha noon on the equator. sources like the Mickaboo this doesn't prove that the Avian Sun light is 88 they emit UVB. If you want CRI, 7500K, no word on Companion Bird Rescue do not advocate providing to provide UV lighting, UVA, and 5% UVB (which is The light fixture should UVB at all. But it is gener‐ your best bet is to buy a the industry's alternate have an electronic ballast, ally agreed that a UVB out‐ bulb that explicitly prom‐ way of saying .05%). An‐ not magnetic, to avoid put of 5.0 is safe for birds, ises to deliver an appropri‐ other avian bulb ‐ Avitech flicker problems which are and this is the amount ate level of it. Avilux ‐ is 93 CRI and invisible to humans but found in full spectrum 5500K which makes it su‐ stressful to birds. Fluores‐ bulbs marketed for birds. perior to the other two in cent light fixtures are cur‐ It is generally agreed that this respect. But the manu‐ rently manufactured with long (18 inches or more) facturer says that the bulb electronic ballasts because Dr. Thrush states that any fluorescent full‐spectrum produces UV without giv‐ they are much more en‐ fluorescent light with a CRI tubes designed to provide ing any information on the ergy efficient than the old greater than 90t will mee UVB are effective at doing amount, which makes it magnetic ballasts. But this the need for UVA. This their job within the useful hard to evaluate the safety changeover is fairly recent may have been true in the lifespan for this part of the or effectiveness of this (beginning around 2002) 1990s, but modern high‐ output. As of 1999, short bulb. and older fixtures might tubes and compact fluo‐ CRI bulbs are often have a magnetic ballast. shielded to prevent UV rescents were not effective Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 11
Lighting, Diet & Vitamin D3 (cont.)
Dr Thrush advises against ability of other types of day. ng/ncsj1.html using reptile bulbs for bulbs (for example plant Why Use Artificial Light birds. A reptile bulb with a lights), consider the CRI, (Editor’s Note: This article UVB rating of 10.0 should http://web.archive.org/we color temperature, and UV was printed from the inter‐ definitely not be used for b/20080202175108/http:/ output. An ideal FS bulb net. Links to the above birds because it can burn us‐ for birds will have CRI of referenced articles are the eyes and cause other ers.mis.net/~pthrush/lighti 95‐98, color temperature available on their website problems. The ZooMed of 5000‐5500K, UVA of 4‐ or as listed below) ng/whyuse.html company reportedly told a 5%, and UVB output not Bird Lighting Hotspots customer that their Repti‐ exceeding .05% (aka 5.0). http://web.archive.org/we Sun 5.0 bulb was exactly Source: b/200802061.../hotspots.h the same as their Avian http://littlefeatheredbuddi Sun 5.0 bulb but this infor‐ Standard incandescent es.com/info/nutrition‐ tml mation has not been con‐ bulbs have a CRI of 100 but lighting.html Are Vita‐Lites for Real their color temperature is firmed. But there is talk on http://faq‐ the internet of reptile less than 3000K and their bmw.vancouver.bc.ca/520 lights repackaged as bird UV output is minimal. (Dr. Patrick Thrush’s web‐ /are‐vita‐lites‐for‐real‐ lights, and if it's true it Their output is quite differ‐ would explain why the ent from that of natural site 187140.html Avian Sun apparently has a sunlight at other frequen‐ http://web.archive.org/we Light Right/Using FS Light‐ cies too, skewing toward color temperature that is b/20080318214648/http:/ ing with Birds the red and yellow end of much higher than the /us‐ http://web.archive.org/we 5000‐5500K generally rec‐ the spectrum and away ers.mis.net/~pthrush/lighti b/20090201023151/http:/ ommended for birds. from green and blue. ng/ /us‐
ers.mis.net/~pthrush/lighti Dr. Thrush advises against How much full spectrum ng/spectrum.html ◙ aquarium lights because light should be used? Full The articles most relevant their color temperature of spectrum lighting is less to the current discussion more than 6000K is good powerful than natural are: for simulating an underwa‐ sunlight so more exposure ter environment, but it is is needed. The recommen‐ (Links may take a few sec‐ dations vary considerably too blue for birds. This is onds to go through) (from 1 to 12 hours a day also the color temperature The Ultraviolet Myth at noon in the far northern depending on the source latitudes (not our birds' and the reason for using http://web.archive.org/we natural environment!), and the light) but 2‐4 hours b/20051109152749/http:/ this is why fluorescent seems to be most com‐ www.users.mis.net/~pthru lights with a color tem‐ monly recommended for sh/lighting/uvmyth.html perature of 6500K are of‐ small birds like cockatiels. Lighting and Your Bird ten called arctic white Full spectrum bulbs are lights. designed to mimic the http://web.archive.org/we noontime sun, and natural b/20080207010024/http:/
sunlight would not have us‐ When considering the suit‐ this intensity for the entire ers.mis.net/~pthrush/lighti Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 12
Most People Not Familiar With Large Parrots Fail To See The "Big Picture" Beautiful and that sometimes drives we continue to read and owners to rescues. study everything we can get Cuddly: our hands on, many Moluc‐ "I want a bird cans and Umbrellas (along These are the words nor‐ One of the most mentally with some other 'Too spe‐ mally used to describe one and emotionally compli‐ that is cuddly!" cies) continue to self de‐ of nature’s most unusual cated parrots to deal with, struct. "Nature" however, (Oh God , Here parrots, the Moluccan the Moluccan, is more does not read books. Cockatoo. It's unusual in than a handful for all but The bottom line is that there we go again... ) that it's one of the few the most dedicated parrot "lap birds, and acts more lover. is much more than meets the eye when considering a like a dog than a bird sometimes. As babies, parrot such as these. Many Moluccans so easily touch Few people can provide for pet stores and breeders only your heart that it's hard to the many needs of these want to sell birds, and if walk away from them special birds. Proof of this forced to tell the truth, without taking one is the fact that wouldn't be able to sell home. Their liquid eyes most parrot rescues are nearly as many as they do look like black pools of in‐ full of Moluccan and Um‐ now. quisitiveness as they care‐ brella cockatoos, and the As the popularity of these fully study your facial ex‐ newspaper classifieds 'Toos increase, the truth is pressions, and you seem to across the nation are full much harder to find. This is be able to look right into of "for sale" ads for these why I recommend talking to their very souls. Both birds. long term cockatoo owners. Moluccans and Umbrella (A short term owner hasn't had the time to see the end cockatoos possess a The strangest circum‐ result). Find as many own‐ sweetness that few parrots stances can cause these ers as possible and do your can match, for awhile. As parrots to become self mu‐ research from places that all good things must come tilators or complete terrors have no vested interest in to an end; however, so to their owners. Lack of the selling of parrots or par‐ goes the sweetness as interaction, wrong foods, rot products. Also talk to the these babies ma‐ bad placement, improper many parrot rescues. They ture. This is not to say that cages and many other fac‐ will normally give you the there will be a complete tors can contribute to a real low‐down on this spe‐ change, but the odds are "problem" cockatoo. great that the 'Too you'll cies and you may possibly wind up with years later is want to adopt instead of not the sweetness and Volumes have been purchase. Do the research light you brought printed in many languages you'll really need in making home. Do all birds attempting to resolve your decision to purchase change? No. Will most these "problems", and one of these wonderful but change to some de‐ many are helpful. But a lot taxing creatures... gree? You'd better believe of psychobabble has been it! And, it's these changes printed also. So, as Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 13
Most People Not Familiar With Large Parrots Fail To See The "Big Picture" (cont.)
thing like a Cockatiel. They products companies. This don't mind too much that means that the site must you're gone all day, and BECAUSE.... be pro parrot, but more don't need a great deal of Tell the folks to importantly "pro owner‐ Like a childless couple that attention. But let’s say turn the volume ship" which in turn means THINK they know what you've walked into a pet up to full for true that you don't always get store (bad idea to start having children would be cockatoo like, (but don't really have the entire picture about with) and see a beautiful experience!!! I a clue until they've ar‐ parrots and parrot owner‐ Moluccan Cockatoo as pic‐ rived), many parrot own‐ ship. They can’t afford to tured above: got in (yet tell all the negative aspects another) ers find out the hard way also. Oh sure..... they're because they'd lose their mutilating advertisers. Heck, I'Mo pr First .. you pay a hvery hig wonderful and smart and Moluccan parrot, but I'm NOT pro price, ($2,000 And up) and entertaining. But, depend‐ yesterday and ing on the species, a parrot ownership for every Tom , a few months later find checked can take up more time, Dick and Mary that has a that the bird has plucked cause more aggravation, few bucks, or who are just out all of his feath‐ messages to find and completely drive you bored and are looking for ers! He's no longer beau‐ still another one nuts in a matter of something to do for a cou‐ tiful! And worse yet, your that someone ple of hours a day. There weeks! That's why there new pet is screaming the wants me to take are a few good loudest screams that are so many parrot res‐ in. Pluckers, cues out there. Is it the "sponsored" websites out you've ever heard in your screamers, birds fault? Absolutely there, but you newe peopl life! Your neighbors are biters, not! It's the owners fault don't have a clue as to now complaining! And for buying something that which is really telling you YOU wonder what went mutilators, mate he or she hasn't re‐ the truth. That's why I wrong. *Note: There is a killers... glad to searched thoroughly (and built this site. Start here difference in a cockatoo see someone tell and use the info I provide that is screaming and a both WILL suffer the con‐ it like it really sequences). to help you weed out cockatoo that is the bad breeders ‐ pet "Displaying". A is! Years ago I stores ‐ web sites ‐ and the "displaying" cockatoo is got more Right up front.. I don't many other aspects of the a HAPPY cockatoo and unwanted think large cockatoos cockatoo business. (You're that's what you want! They Conures than should be kept for 90 years going to need all the help usually do this twice a day anything else, you can get. ) So with that for about 5 minutes or in a cage. These majestic today, Cockatoos creatures deserve to be in mind...... so. Yes...its usually just as top the list. free as God in‐ loud as a scream‐ tended. Now, that not ing cockatoo. Be aware withstanding, I know it’s HERE WE GO! however that baby cocka‐ Dee Parrot just not gonna hap‐ toos are QUIET, and CUD‐ Rescue, Md. ... ) pen. Also, note that I do You work every day, but DLY. They will not make a not accept advertis‐ you'd like a nice bird. One lot of noise for about a ing. Most Dot Com Parrot that will sit on your hand, year or more. And any sites are paid for by parrot and maybe even talk. You breeder or pet store that then are looking at some‐ Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 14
Most People Not Familiar With Large Parrots Fail To See The "Big Picture" (cont.) would sell you a baby Now, why are they like make your own as I usually cockatoo (Umbrella or children? Because we do) to keep them Moluccan) under 6 to 7 don't allow them to be busy! They must also have a months of age is a place to birds! We don't provide very large cage. That will set be avoided at all the large outdoor aviaries you back around $800.00 or cost! These are bird that they really need. We more. (A cheaper cage is mills, and they cause more don't keep the environ‐ useless!) Note again: A damage to these creatures ment that allows them to LARGE cockatoo really needs in the long run than any‐ not bond with us SO tight an aviary, not just a cage, thing I can think of. that they go crazy when and NEVER ever attempt to we're gone. These birds stuff a large 'Too in a small attach themselves so rap‐ cage! OK idly to humans, that they have earned the name In the case of a large "Velcro Birds". Why? Be‐ Then there's the cockatoo Cockatoo, if you consider cause when all they have is dust, lots of it! Do you or them as children then you that super intelligent brain anyone in your family have START to get the big pic‐ and YOU... cooped up in allergies? Wrong bird! ture. You wouldn't lock a that house with And preening.....'Toos have child in a cage and go to YOU... languishing in that very long feathers on their work, and so neither do cage with just YOU to look heads that they cant you leave large Cockatoos at... Then its YOU who reach. If you only have one alone every day. I recom‐ must provide all of the 'Too, plan on preening his mend that someone be birds entertainment and head every few days. This home most of the interaction needs. This is does two things: It helps his time before you even con‐ why MOST people should irritation and it's the BEST sider owning a Cocka‐ never own one. Because if bonding practice between too. They are the you can’t provide the you and your bird. Nothing most emotional of all the above, you are making a beats it. species. In return for the child monster, and that "cuddles" that you were child is gonna be 2 years after, you will be required old for 90 years. How old Then there's your CHIL‐ to return the favor by are YOU now? DREN.... Cockatoos nor‐ spending LOTS of time mally don't like small chil‐ with them. "Most of the dren. I have seen otherwise time" however doesn't "normal" cockatoos attack mean 8 hours a day. At THINGS THEY small children for no rea‐ the same time, 8 hours a son. Is it because the chil‐ day away from the house DON'T TELL dren are fast or flighty? Is it while working is much too YOU..... their voice or manner‐ long. Don't even try isms? I don't know the an‐ it. (Do you really have Let’s talk about upkeep swer to this. All I know is time for this?) and quirks: Of course they must have LOTS of EXPEN‐ that even if your cockatoo
SIVE TOYS (unless you (or any parrot) is nice to Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 15
Most People Not Familiar With Large Parrots Fail To See The "Big Picture" (cont.) your kids, NEVER research on several types NOW....ASK EVER allow them near your and ask people who OWN kids faces without com‐ them, not sell them.... YOURSELF I have written plete supervision, and Special Note To The La‐ THESE QUES‐ articles and even then you are taking a dies: chance. Plastic surgery is lectured about not something you want to What happens if you get TIONS put your child pregnant? More cocka‐ 1. Owning a bird can cost the pitfalls of through ! Its your call. toos are shoved out of oth‐ money. Food, toys, and parrot ownership erwise loving homes due vets can soon add up. Do for the last 10 to pregnancy than any‐ you HAVE an avian vet in thing else (except for di‐ your area? years, always HOW ABOUT vorce) due to the fact that the woman now has a new 2. Many birds go through a reserving the FOOD? No period of adjustment. They interest that she must fo‐ strongest cus on, and doesn't may bite, or just avoid you No!..Not language for need: The demands of 2 altogether. Do you have seeds! babies at once.... The noise the patience to deal with large cockatoos. that a cockatoo can make this without getting dis‐ Nothing I have YOU COOK FOR to scare the newborn.... Or couraged? It can take a THEM! That's right! Green the possible danger of a long time if the birds been ever written or beans and corn and carrots abused. large jealous bird in the said comes close and (insert any vegetable same house with a 3. A parrot can live from 10 here) and brown beans baby ...... Think about to 90 years. It can be a to being as and rice and the list goes these things just in case LIFETIME pet. Are you effective and on and on. Then there's you DO get pregnant. In ready for this? And the avian pellets or chows, divorce cases, many previ‐ what will happen to the honest as your fruits and nuts and so ous stay‐at‐home moms bird when you die? Think site. forth. Get the pic‐ must enter the work force, about it! Congratulations ture? Sure you want to do and many move from a this? 4. When you go away on house to an apart‐ vacation, who will care for and keep up the ment. This is a double the bird? Many people are good work. But, as I said earlier, most whammy and the bird important is the TIME that afraid of large parrots. must go. These are exam‐ What if the bird gets out of you must spend with ples of things you have them! You have to its cage? Can they handle little control over. So all that? Layne Dicker ... take them out every day I'm asking you to do is con‐ (several times a day usu‐ sider these possibilities 5. Do you have the TIME to ally) and PLAY with them! down the road, and try to devote to the bird? Will Just like a child! Please think about what YOU you be able to play with it keep in mind that I'm talk‐ would do IF... (Try to have every dday, an maybe let ing about large Cockatoos a "Plan B" in place at all it safely fly? Will the bird here. Other Parrots are times.) have more room than just quite different. Do the its cage? Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 16
Most People Not Familiar With Large Parrots Fail To See The "Big Picture" (cont.) (Be aware however, "T" humans. Can you deal with their skin till they bleed to stands and 'Toos don't this? Can you deal with death.) Now, here is a ques‐ mix, as they are your husband/ wife/kids? tion I received by e‐mail re‐ MUCH too active to sit on If not, better steer clear of cently: "Why is there such a "I want a bird a stand. As soon as you parrots! difference between Moluc‐ leave the room, they are that is cuddly!" can Cockatoos (or cockatoos OUTTA THERE!) in general) and Macaws or (Oh God , Here 6. Do you have room for a *Some bird other parrots? Aren't they LARGE cage? And what wild animals we go again... ) about the droppings here owners will as well?"...... My an‐ and there? Mind a little swer: Well.... that's like damage now and then to look at saying all birds are birds. things in your home? It Actually, nothing could be WILL happen, trust this page as further from the truth. The me! (Maybe even LOTS of being overly difference between let’s damage.) say...a common Finch and a 7. Is anyone in your family negative... parrot, is about the same allergic to feathers and in difference as the difference "Before I got my cockatoo I the case of Cockatoos, lots between a worm and a did a lot of research on of dust? (How do you dog. The difference be‐ them. Then I found this think they stay so white?) tween the "average" par‐ site & thought, God can't rot and a large cockatoo is 8. Do you have other pets these people say anything about the same as the dif‐ in the house? Will they get nice about these birds... ference between a dog and along with your bird and it's so negative. Boy was I a 3 year old human. In other vice versa? Cats can kill a wrong! Having a cockatoo words, there's usually a big bird just with its sa‐ really makes you think difference. Cockatoo own‐ liva. Are you willing to risk twice & really want to read ers will attest to this fact. that? everything. Now
9. Parrots are normally I've learned to deal with very shy of small children whatever my U2 & M2 Please people...It breaks my and I don't recommend throws at me." heart to see the end results giving large parrots to chil‐ of what can happen when a dren period! But if you DO person doesn't have a clue. *I'm trying not to be.... give a child a pet bird, are And I know that after all of But people call and e‐mail YOU willing to take respon‐ this, It may be hard to con‐ me every week with the sibility if the child gets BIT vince you that Parrots are same story: "I had NO idea or gets tired of the the most wonderful animals of what I was getting bird? It’s YOUR fault if that on earth. But they ARE or into!". They tell me that happens. CAN be.... It’s all up to you! their birds are constantly 10. Forget everything you screaming.....or plucking know about pets when it out their feathers...or comes to birds. Many birds WORSE... (like nipping are just as EMOTIONAL as Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 17
Most People Not Familiar With Large Parrots Fail To See The "Big Picture" (cont.)
know when you see one consider carefully what the hands also on the toes you just adore them but you are about to do. Save In Clos‐ and back. He also struck at people need to read this both you and the bird the corner of my eye twice site before getting heartache. ing: Dont wind [ thank God I had my one." Nicole glasses on or I would be
‐up being one missing an eye] I have Source: http:// been chased and chased www.mytoos.com/ of these poor around the house. Now, LOOK FOLKS... main.shtml it's not like the bird hates Only 10% of the parrot people who me. He actually thinks I owners out there are actu‐ am his mate. I'd hate to be ally capable of providing all send me let‐ someone he hated! And the needs of a large ters like this: when it's " that time of the bird. And I hope you're month" for me, I had to one. Many think they "I wish I had seen your site keep him caged. These are, and many try. But you 5 1/2 years ago before get‐ birds have a strong big really have to have lotsof ting our Moluccan. These beak and can/will slice time, lots of patience, are BEAUTIFUL birds and through human skin [or and plenty of love. But if LOVE SPONGES as you all lips] like a knife to melted you're the 'average" buyer, refer to. BUT they are like butter. I love him but for you too will be running ads Jeckyl /Hyde. I am ex‐ my own safety gave him like these and helping to tremely upset. I had to up. Did I mention the destroy any future confi‐ give up my M2 last week plucking and screaming? I dence your bird may have to a rescue eplac after be‐ could tolerate that but not had. On the other ing bit 3 times on the the attacks. Also, I have hand, hopefully your bird face. One which sent me been hoarse ever since I will be better off without to the E.R. I have been got him and can hardly you in their lives. Please bitten countless times on breathe out my nose. I Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 18
Membership Renewals HAS YOUR According to Article III, Section 4 of the MEMBERSHIP Bylaws, membership renewals must be EXPIRED? received within 60 days of expiration or the member will be dropped from the rolls. RENEW ONLINE New & Renewed Memberships: TODAY! Jan Bishop Angelique Thomas www.rdcbs.org/ Julie Inman RDCBS/Membership
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FOR SALE: Baby Congo please visit our web site PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED Contact the newsletter edi‐ African Greys and Green‐ www.riverbankaviary.com AD OR LIST YOUR AVIARY tor, Wendy Edwards cheek Conures. Call Gay or (919) 266‐0906 HERE! ([email protected]) Whitney in New Bern at to place your free 252‐637‐4238 or contact CAROLINA FLIGHT classified ad. parrotmom AVIARY: Fischer’s Love TEXT ADS ARE FREE TO @parrotmom.net for more Birds, mutations, prices MEMBERS AND NON‐ information. vary according to color; MEMBERS! Masked Love Birds avail‐ CANARIES & FINCHES – able also. Contact Wendy American Singer Canaries @ [email protected] and beautiful silver/black or (919) 219‐8444. Society Finches; male ca‐ naries $85/ea, female ca‐ K & L AVIARY: Big, beauti‐ naries $70/ea, society ful breeders or sweet tame finches $25/ea. Contact pets! We have pets year Sharon at (919) 266‐4935 ‘round! Cockatiels from $100 and up. We occasion‐ RIVERBANK AVIARY ‐ ally have a variety of Hand raised/fed Yellow finches for including ze‐ Collar Mini Macaws, Se‐ bras, society, and shaf‐ vere Mini Macaws, Jenday tails. All birds from top Conures, Cockatiels, and exhibition stock – Rosy Bourke Grass Para‐ [email protected] keets. For availability Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 19
ADVERTISEMENT RATES & POLICIES How To Get Published Classified Ads:
The RDCBS encourages any Photos must be clearly Members …….… FREE/25 words (4 lines) club member to contribute focused and properly Non-members … FREE/25 words (4 lines) to the newsletter. Photos exposed. Photos may be Business Card ………………. $5.00/issue and illustrations are wel‐ color or B/W. Photos will Quarter Page …………….… $15.00/issue come as well. Member be returned. Half Page ………………...… $25.00/issue contributions help make All artwork may be B/W Full Page …………………… $50.00/issue this publication more or color, no pencil All ads except classified ads must be camera ready pleasurable. The few re‐ please. All artwork will or on a CD in any format recognizable by Adobe quirements and considera‐ be returned. Photoshop. A free copy of The Carolina Parakeet will be sent to all retail advertisers. tions to be followed are: All items must be accom‐
panied by the club mem‐ The Carolina Parakeet is published bi-monthly. Items must be clearly ber’s name and phone Advertising copy deadline: The club meeting before printed, typed, or sub‐ number. publication (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec). mitted on 3.5” computer disk. Please save in ASCII SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Send advertising correspondence to (text) format. All disks the meeting before [email protected] or will be returned publication (Feb, Apr, Jun, call Wendy at (919) 219-8444 promptly. Aug, Oct, Dec). Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 20
An Introduction to the Raleigh-Durham Caged
RDCBS Meetings are Bird Society (RDCBS) held at 2:30 p.m. on the third (3rd) Sunday The RDCBS is an active club and also feature a "bird vide educational demon‐ of each month at the with members from species of the month". strations about cage birds around the triangle area. Our meetings also provide for 4‐H groups, school Glen Eden Pilot Park Membership is comprised a chance to cultivate classroom projects or field Community Building, of over 100 families or in‐ friendships with other avi‐ trips, nursing homes, etc. 1500 Glen Eden dividuals, including pet culturists and pet bird Drive, Raleigh, North bird owners, bird breeders, owners. Some RDCBS members Carolina 27612, pet store owners and em‐ have developed an active ployees, and veterinarians A major activity of the club interest in the exhibition of and their assistants and is an annual pet bird fair cockatiels and other spe‐ students. A large number held each spring, in which cies and have participated of species are represented the public is given the in the activities of various among members'd bir chance to seen and lear show clubs. families, with psittacine about a large variety of birds ranging from budg‐ exotic bird species, to The RDCBS is affiliated erigars to hyacinth macaws learn about the care and with the American Federa‐ and non‐psittacines from breeding of selected spe‐ tion of Aviculture (AFA), finches to peafowl. cies, to see commercial National Cockatiel Society exhibits, etc. Proceeds (NCS), National Finch and The primary purposes of from a raffle held at the Softbill Society (NFSS), Afri‐ the RDCBS are to educate fair are used to support can Love Bird Society club members and mem‐ worthy avian research or (ALBS) and Bird Clubs of bers of the community conservation projects. America (BCA). about the care and breed‐ ing of caged birds and A bimonthly newsletter, The RDCBS is a non‐profit, about larger avicultural The Carolina Parakeet, is tax‐exempt organization in concerns such as captive published for members accordance with IRS tax propagation of rare and and provides useful infor‐ code section 501(c)(3). endangered species and mation on a variety of avi‐ Thus, your donations to conservation of avian spe‐ cultural topics and current the RDCBS are tax‐ cies in their native habi‐ concerns. deductible. tats. The educational outreach Information about RDCBS The club meets on the program of the club in‐ and avicultural topics of third Sunday of each cludes the following: The interest also is accessible month at 2:30 P.M. at the RDCBS provides bird exhib‐ via the Internet at RDCBS' Glen Eden Pilot Park Com‐ its at the North Carolina Web site: munity Building on the State Fair and at special http://www.rdcbs.org. west side of Raleigh. events of institutions such This site includes the latest Meetings include lectures as the North Carolina Mu‐ information regarding up‐ or demonstrations on a seum of Natural Science. coming RDCBS events, se‐ variety of avicultural topics Various members also pro‐ lected articles from The Volume XXIV, No. 5 The Carolina Parakeet Page 21
An Introduction to the Raleigh-Durham Caged Bird Society (RDCBS)
Carolina Parakeet, and turned to the address be‐ Copyright 2000‐2011, The Raleigh‐Durham Caged Bird Society provides links to the Web low. (RDCBS). All Rights Reserved and Reprinted with Permission sites of the aforemen‐ articles require permission from the author and the original tioned national societies Correspondence to the source. Unless indicated, articles may be reproduced for non‐ profit use as long as proper credit is given to the author and the with which we are affili‐ should be addressed to: RDCBS. We request a copy of the reproduced material for our ated . files. All artwork is the property of the artist and may not be re‐ Raleigh‐Durham Caged produced without the artist’s permission. Applications for member‐ Bird Society The editors reserve the right to edit and/or decline to pub‐ ship in the RDCBS can be PO Box 32291 lish anything submitted. obtained from any of the Raleigh, NC 27622 Articles published within do not necessarily reflect the poli‐ RDCBS Board of Directors, cies of RDCBS nor represent the views of eth editors, RDCBS, or or Officers and may be re‐ its officers. The RDCBS is not responsible for the claims in adver‐ tisements or for inaccuracies in any article published.
Committees & Appointed Positions
Monthly Meetings: Educational Program Director: Educational Outreach: Carol Wilson‐‐552‐8856‐[email protected] Bird Fair Chairman: Monthly Notices : John Marquis‐‐266‐0906‐[email protected] Carol Wilson‐‐552‐8856‐[email protected] Show/Exhibitions Coordinator: Visitor Orientation/Introduction: (Open) Wendy Edwards‐‐219‐8444‐[email protected] Meeting Refreshments: NC State Fair Coordinator: Cindy Chappell‐‐779‐1206‐[email protected] April Blazich‐‐851‐8079‐[email protected] Raffle Coordinator: Angela Parrish‐(336) 269‐3934‐ NC Museum of Natural Science Coordinator: [email protected] April Blazich‐‐851‐8079‐[email protected] Photographers: (Open) School Programs: "The Carolina Parakeet" (RDCBS Newsletter) Editor: April Blazich‐‐851‐8079‐[email protected] Wendy Edwards‐(919) 219‐8444‐[email protected] Grant Requests Coordinator: Sharon Dvorak‐‐266‐4935‐[email protected] Membership: Directory: Affiliate Representatives: Carol Wilson‐‐552‐8856‐[email protected] American Federation of Aviculture (AFA) Club Delegates: Renewal notices/New member packets: Cindy Chappell‐‐779‐1206‐[email protected] Carol Wilson‐‐552‐8856‐[email protected] April Blazich‐‐851‐8079‐[email protected] RDCBS T‐Shirts: Available on website: www.rdcbs.org RDCBS Name Tags: Available on website: www.rdcbs.org Librarian: (Open) Public Information Officer: (Open) Legislative Issues: Cindy Chappell‐‐779‐1206‐[email protected] Webmaster: John Marquis‐‐266‐0906‐[email protected]