Your new baby has a new room, new people and a new routine to learn. Start with the information supplied for your individual bird and give them time to become comfortable with your family.
Keep the first days manageable
Set up the enclosure before arrival, then keep introductions calm and predictable. Give your bird opportunities to observe their surroundings without a crowd of visitors or repeated handling. The goal is a routine your bird can gradually become familiar with.
Ask Baby Beaks about the routine your baby knows. If you are unsure how to interpret their behaviour or how to handle them comfortably, seek individual advice. Handraising does not guarantee that a bird will immediately enjoy every person or interaction.
Keep food and daily care clear
Confirm what your bird is eating at collection and have those supplies ready. Ask your avian veterinarian before making significant diet changes. There is no single diet plan suitable for all companion bird species, and lorikeets have specialised feeding needs.
Keep food and water dishes clean and provide fresh water. Make a simple note of the usual routine and any changes you notice. If you are uncertain whether your new bird is eating normally, get prompt veterinary advice rather than guessing or trying to handfeed without professional direction.
Introduce your family thoughtfully
Adults should supervise children’s interactions and remain responsible for care. Keep other pets from approaching the bird unsupervised. Before out-of-enclosure time, make the room secure: close doors and windows, switch off fans and remove access to open water and other hazards.
If you already have birds, do not assume they can share a cage or meet immediately. Ask your avian veterinarian for a separation and introduction plan suited to your household. Every bird’s circumstances are different.
Know when to seek help
Birds can hide illness. Changes in appetite, droppings, breathing, posture or activity deserve veterinary attention. Breathing difficulty, collapse, injury or suspected toxin exposure require urgent veterinary help. Do not wait for a reply from Baby Beaks before contacting an appropriate veterinary service.
Save your avian veterinarian’s details and an after-hours contact before collection. Bring the information supplied with your bird when seeking veterinary advice.
Support beyond collection day
Baby Beaks offers lifetime support for our families. Contact us about your baby’s known routine or collection information, and seek veterinary advice for health, feeding or behaviour concerns. You can also visit our FAQs and vet collaboration page.
This guide provides general owner information. It does not replace an examination or an individual care plan from an avian veterinarian.
Further reading: RSPCA Australia: Household hazards, feeding companion birds and general bird care.