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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
Birds in a Cage
Isolated bird
Isolated Bird
Three weeks isolation calendar
Three Weeks Isolation


Pet birds should always be separated from poultry

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.

Birds in a cage


Cleaning a cage

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.

Clean bird cages

Check when purchasing for an easy to clean cage
 
Sample Questions
1.) Isolation of birds means:
  a) Taking a bird for a check-up by an avian veterinarian.
  b) Having pictures taken of your bird.
  c) Separating birds as far as possible from the most likely sources of infection.
  d) Checking the daily behavior of your bird.

2.) Some disinfectants can be toxic to your birds so it is important to check with your avian
     veterinarian for safe disinfectants.

  a) True
  b) False
What about water?