Pet birds are intelligent, affectionate, and rewarding companions. No matter what bird you choose, you need to set up a happy home for him with the right stuff. You also need to keep your bird healthy by performing routine care and knowing what a healthy bird looks like and how he behaves. This friendly guide describes the birds that make the best pets, explains how to select the bird that's best for you, offers tips on bonding with your feathered friend, and provides expert advice on feeding and environmental enrichment that will keep these intelligent pets engaged.

Includes index.

Birds and humans : it’s only natural! --Narrowing the choices -- Deciding on a bird of your own -- Preparing for your bird’s arrival -- Starting your bird off right -- The new art, science, and fun of feeding birds right -- Beyond food and water : bird basics -- How birds work : the short course -- A preventive care approach to your bird’s health -- Your bird in sickness — and back to health -- Lifelong care for your bird -- Behavior 101 : getting to “good bird!” -- Living in a multiple-bird household -- Caring for chickens and other backyard poultry -- Ten bird myths debunked -- Ten steps to a healthy bird -- Ten questions to ask when buying a bird -- Ten (or so) must-see avian websites -- Ten best birds for beginners -- Ten common dangers to your bird’s life -- Ten disaster-planning tips for bird lovers.