Located just outside of Knoxville TN
We are dedicated to the raising and the rehabilitation of companion birds who have been raised by us or rescued or abandon.
Pet Bird Facts
Pet bird facts
🐦 Fascinating Pet Bird Facts
🧠 1. Birds Are Extremely Intelligent
Many parrots can solve puzzles, learn tricks, and understand cause-and-effect. Some species can learn 100+ words and use them in context.
🎭 2. They Have Big Personalities
No two birds are alike! Some are cuddly, some independent, some silly, and some sassy.
💬 3. Birds Communicate Constantly
They use:
- Vocalizations
- Body language
- Feather positioning
- Eye pinning
- Beak tapping
Even quiet birds are “talking” all day long.
❤️ 4. Birds Feel Emotions
Pet birds can experience:
- Joy
- Excitement
- Fear
- Jealousy
- Grief
They form deep bonds with their humans.
🕰 5. Many Birds Live a Long Time
Depending on species:
- Budgies: 10–15 years
- Cockatiels: 15–20 years
- Larger parrots: 30–80+ years
Owning a parrot can be a lifetime commitment.
🧩 6. Birds Need Daily Mental Stimulation
Without enrichment, birds can develop:
- Feather plucking
- Screaming behaviors
- Depression
- Aggression
Toys and interaction are essential, not optional.
👀 7. Birds See More Colors Than Humans
They can see ultraviolet light, which helps them identify food and mates.
🦜 8. Beaks Are Like Hands
Birds use their beaks to:
- Climb
- Explore
- Open objects
- Play
- Show affection
🌙 9. Some Birds Sleep With One Eye Open
They can rest half their brain at a time to stay alert.
🪶 10. Feather Health Reflects Overall Health
Shiny, smooth feathers usually indicate good nutrition and proper care.
👯 11. Birds Are Social Animals
Most companion birds thrive with:
- Daily human interaction
- Another bird companion (species dependent)
- Structured routines
🍎 12. Diet Impacts Behavior
A balanced diet of pellets, vegetables, and healthy treats supports:
- Better mood
- Strong immune system
- Brighter feathers
- Longer lifespan
Injured or Diseased Wild Birds Birds
Birds can become injured and sick for a multitude of reasons.
The most common reasons include getting attacked by house cats, window collisions, being hit by cars, and bacterial and viral illnesses contracted at bird feeders
If you find an injured wild bird in Tennessee, immediately contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator
It is illegal to keep wildlife. For assistance in Tennessee, contact the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), call Walden’s Puddle (Middle TN) at (615) 559-WILD, or search for a local rehabilitator. Keep the bird safe, warm, and dark, and avoid handling it.
Steps to Take
- Safety First: Observe from a distance of at least 75 feet if the bird is in a park, to avoid causing further stress.
- Secure the Bird: Use gloves, gently place the bird in a cardboard box with air holes, and line it with a soft cloth.
- Provide Warmth: If the bird is cold, place a sock filled with warm rice or a heating pad on low under half of the box.
- No Food/Water: Do not attempt to feed or give water to an injured bird, as this can cause harm.
- Do Not Attempt Rehab: It is illegal for unlicensed individuals to provide care for wildlife in Tennessee.
Resources
- TWRA: Report sick, injured, or dead birds, particularly if they exhibit neurological symptoms or are found in groups.
- Walden's Puddle (Middle TN): (615) 559-WILD (9453).
- Raptors (Hawks, Owls, Eagles): Contact the Middle Tennessee Raptor Center.
- Rehabilitator List: Find a certified specialist on the TN.gov wildlife rehabilitator page.
What Constitutes an Emergency?
Visible wounds, broken bones, bleeding, or being caught by a cat or dog requires immediate professional attention. If the bird is not acting normally—e.g., not trying to escape, lying on its side, or having tremors—it needs help.