What is the best temperature for Parrots?

Question:
What temperature can parrots safely tolerate in the winter? We turn the heat down at night, what is the best temperature for our parrots?

Answer:
Most healthy parrots can abide average house temperatures during the day and night . However, there are circumstances where taking a few precautions is prudent. Many of us turn down the thermostat at night (with pet birds in the house, stay above 18C – 19C) and because so many homes are now of an ‘open concept’ design with lots of windows, cages in a main living area may get too cold at night.

Having a bedtime cage (this is a good idea for lots of behaviour reasons as well!!) placed in a more confined room or space in the house during the night can offset the chill that can occur in a larger space. Smaller bedrooms, lofts, bathrooms or even laundry rooms can retain the heat better than an open living space can. Covering the cage with a heavier blanket (you can determine whether the bird does best with 1⁄4, 1⁄2 or full covering), will help keep the heat in the cage. If the house is older, prone to drafts or just plain cold, providing extraneous heat via a heat lamp or a floor heater may be needed.

Don’t forget to watch your bird for cues – if it is fluffed and huddled in a corner, it is likely too cold!!

Respectfully submitted, Dr. Kerry Korber Calgary Avian & Exotic Pet Clinic