How to Exercise a Bird

Everyone knows that you need to walk a dog, but few people realize that pet birds need exercise, too. Just like humans, sedentary birds are at risk for a host of health problems including obesity, heart disease and even diabetes. Wild birds exercise by flying, but most pet birds have clipped wings and will need to do flapping exercises to stay in top condition.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tame pet bird
• Dowel rod: 1/2 to 1 1/2 inch diameter, depending on the size of your bird
• Healthy treats

1. Set up a routine for exercising your bird. Daily exercise is best, but a few times a week is usually sufficient. Mid-morning and early afternoon are usually the best times for exercise sessions. Avoid exercising your bird when hungry, immediately after a meal, during the late afternoon (when most birds nap), or in the late evening.

2. Encourage your bird to fly if he's frighted. Place him on a stand or on top of his cage, and quickly walk away. Hold out a healthy treat where he can clearly see it, and call to him. Most birds will readily fly to you to get the treat. Repeat several times, being sure to stop and let him take a break if he begins to pant heavily.

3. Teach your bird to do flapping exercises if he has clipped wings. Ask the bird to "step up" onto a short dowel rod (8 to 12 inches). Raise, then lower the rod a few inches. Most birds will immediately begin flapping their wings. Praise your bird, and repeat several times. Stop and let your bird take a break if he becomes exhausted.

4. Make exercise rewarding for your bird. Almost all birds respond positively to a healthy treat, such as a grape. Avoid the temptation to reward him with fatty foods such as sunflower seeds.

5. If your bird seems reluctant to exercise, or becomes winded quickly, don't give up. Some birds take longer than others to get the hang of flapping exercises, and some are simply out of shape. Continue to try for a few minutes each day, and offer praise and rewards every time your bird exercises.

Tips & Warnings

• If your bird is out of shape, you will need to start out slowly and gradually increase the amount of exercise he gets.
• Climbing and swinging are good exercise, too. Consider offering your bird toys that encourage him to play actively.
• Consult an avian veterinarian before beginning an exercise program if your bird is obese or has health problems.
• Always allow your bird to stop and take a break if he begins panting heavily. Exercising while exhausted can be dangerous.

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