Pet Bird Owner Training Tutorial
Chapter 7
Biosecurity Recommendation: Isolating Birds
Separate your birds as far as possible from likely sources of infection. For example, new bird additions are a source of potential infection. Keeping in mind that birds don't necessarily have to look sick to be carrying disease, it's safest to isolate a new bird to observe it for disease symptoms (signs of illness/sickness). The bird should be placed in a separate room and observed for at least 21 days (3 weeks).
During this time, feeding and caring for your new bird should take place after handling your resident birds. If your new birds don't show signs of illness at the end of the isolation period, you'll know it's safe to let them join your resident birds.
Different groups of birds should be separated because some birds are more susceptible to disease than others and pet birds should always be separated from poultry.
Birds in a Cage
|
Isolated Bird
|
Three Weeks Isolation
|
Biosecurity Recommendation: Clean Cages
Always clean and disinfect bird cages before using the cage. This recommendation applies to new cages and your neighbor's cage.
Exotic Newcastle Disease affected rooster
|
Healthy chicken on a patio
|
Clean and disinfect your cage on a daily basis. Remember that disinfectants won't work unless your cage is first thoroughly cleaned. Some disinfectants can be toxic to your bird. Check with an avian veterinarian for safe disinfectant recommendations. When purchasing a cage, select one that is easily cleaned and contains a grate.
