Explores the whole field of keeping birds as pets, from how to choose the right bird to advice on cages, daily care, food, health disorders, breeding and colour inheritance.
The text contains information on exotic and talking birds and birds kept for their song and colour.
A thoroughly helpful reference for anyone who owns birds or is considering doing so. Alderton provides an instructive overview for the main species of caged birds, including finches, parrots, canaries, and macaws, plus the particular requirements for each and the potential drawbacks to owning one.
The pros and cons of various cage designs are discussed. Much space is also devoted to outlining the often extensive upkeep that goes into providing a suitable environment for birds, including feeding, watering, cleaning, and handling the birds.
As a caged bird is susceptible to all manner of sickness and disease, Alderton explains the most common health problems, giving practical advice for diagnosing these ailments. Methods for breeding, ways to tame birds, and tips for helping the more vocal species to speak round out this extremely accessible book. Worth the price simply for the dozens of striking color photographs.
