The Parrot Podcast
Hi, I’m Sandra! Welcome to the Parrot podcast, where we talk all things parrots! Whether you're a new parrot owner or a seasoned bird enthusiast, this podcast is for you. We aim to provide valuable information to help you care for your birbs!Join us as we discuss a wide range of topics, including diet and nutrition, toys and cage setups, health and enrichment, training tips, and much more. We'll share our knowledge and expertise to help you give your parrot the best possible life and help you be the best parront you can be!Some episodes will feature in...
Inside the Fight to Save Wild Parrots, The Wild Truth
In this episode, I invited the World Parrot Trust to join us on The Parrot Podcast! I'm sitting down with Erin Katzner, their Education & Outreach Director, to talk about what's really happening to parrots in the wild — from the trafficking crisis to the incredible work being done to rescue, rehabilitate, and return these birds to where they belong: the wild. Whether you're a devoted parront or love these amazing birds, this conversation will open your eyes to the global fight to protect them, and the concrete things every one of us can do to help.
Episode Hi...
Taking Your Parrot Outdoors Safely: Free Flight, GPS, Bird Carriers & Wing Clipping
Can any parrot learn to free-fly? What does it actually take to safely take your parrot outside? In another episode with Jamieleigh Womach, co-founder of BirdTricks, we go deep into everything about outdoor adventures! We talk about her free flight journey, how GPS and telemetry tracking technology is changing bird safety, the TrackPack collab with ibiyaya, what to look for in a proper bird carrier, and why wing clipping is more dangerous than most people think. Whether you dream of free-flying your bird or just want to take them outside safely, this one is packed with everything you need...
What an Exotic Vet Wants Every Parrot Owner to Know ft. Dr. Noémie Hofman
What if most of the health issues pet parrots face could have been prevented? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Noémie Hofman, an exotic animal veterinarian based in Dubai whose career has taken her from working with parrots at the world-famous Loro Parque to tracking chimpanzees in the Ivory Coast, rehabilitating sea turtles in the Maldives, and now treating companion birds and exotics at a Veterinary Clinic in Dubai. We get into the most common medical conditions she sees in parrots and what's actually causing them, how diet and environment directly impact disease, the link between c...
From Cruise Ships to Free Flight, She's Trained Parrots for 20+ Years!
Jamie started working with parrots at 17, performed with them on cruise ships around the world, and has spent over two decades helping people build better relationships with their birds. In this episode, I sit down with Jamieleigh Womach, co-founder of BirdTricks, to talk about her incredible journey, what "every interaction is a training session" really means, permission-based training, her non-profit Project Parrots, and her recent trip to Peru to visit wild macaws. Whether you're a new parrot owner or have been parronting for years, this conversation will change the way you think about your bird!
Episode...
Are We Feeding Parrots Wrong? Wild Diets, Whole Foods & The Science of Parrot Nutrition
In this episode, I sit down with biologist, Presidential Award-winning educator, and avian nutrition expert Dr. Jason Crean, Lead Formulator at Biodiversity Bird Blends and one of the most respected voices in companion parrot nutrition in North America! We cover everything from wild diet ecology and bioavailability to herbal teas, bee pollen, hormones, and the mineral questions every parront is Googling at night.👀
Episode Highlights:
Why whole food diversity is what parrots are biologically built forParrot Nutrition variety and what that includes Why are parrots eating clay in the wild, and what does the scie...What Nobody Tells You About Rescuing Parrots | Adoption, Flocks & Bird Owner Reality
Thinking about rescuing a parrot or adopting from a bird rescue? In this episode, we explore the realities of parrot rescue and life as a bird owner.
Parrot rescues around the world are overflowing with birds needing homes, yet many people don’t fully understand what adopting a rescue parrot involves. In this episode, certified professional bird trainer Sophie joins us to talk about rescuing parrots, rehoming birds, and the realities of bringing new parrots into your home.
We also discuss the honest side of being a bird parent, from the scariest moments we've experienced wi...
Beat the Heat! Summer Supplements & Safety for Birds
In this episode, we sit down with Lea from NEKTON to talk all things summer bird care, from avoiding heat stress in parrots and other birds to smart supplement strategies that can make a big difference in the summer. Parrots don’t sweat, and hot days, especially during heat waves, can be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
We cover the key signs of heat stress, what to do if you spot them, common mistakes bird owners make during the summer, prevention recommendations and what to avoid. Plus, Lea shares her go-to supplements for the season and how t...
Parrot Kindergarten: Teaching Birds to Talk with Tech & Trust
What happens when science, compassion, technology and a parrot come together? In this episode, we sit down with Jen, who took a groundbreaking approach to teaching birds how to communicate using tablets and touchscreens! Her birds are the first documented parrots that can READ AND WRITE!! We explore how to truly understand your bird’s emotions, recognize signs of trauma, fear, and even pain, and how technology and trust-based training can create a bridge between species.
Whether you're a bird parent, animal behaviour enthusiast, or just curious about how a parrot can use an iPad/tablet, this ep...
Cockatiels: How are they as pets & How they compare to conures
Are cockatiels good pets? In this episode, we explore cockatiels as pets, how they compare to conures, and essential care tips. We chat with Ada about her flock and real-life experiences with her adorable cockatiels and canary!
Keypoints:
🦜 Cockatiels vs. Conures
💛 Cockatiel care
🌙 Cockatiel night frights
🔍 Foraging for cockatiels
🎶 Canary birds – What it's like to have them as pets
🥦 Canary bird diet – Nutrition for these tiny songbirds
This episode is packed with cockatiel care tips and insights to help you provide the best home and care for your f...
Parrot SOS: Diet, First Aid, Plucking, and the Secrets to a Healthier Bird
In this episode, we dive into the essential tips every bird owner needs to know. From quick first-aid steps for emergencies to understanding the root causes of feather plucking, we cover it all with Dr. Octavio. Learn how to optimize your parrot’s diet with the right balance and discover the importance of sunlight and probiotics for their well-being. Plus, we tackle common health concerns like overweight birds and the use of hormone implants. Tune in for expert advice and practical solutions to keep your parrot thriving from an avian vet!
Key Points:
Parrot first aid tip...Birds with Special Needs and Birb Art
In this episode we fly into the world of birds with special needs, exploring the challenges and care requirements! From splay legs to blindness, we discuss various disabilities that affect birds and the compassionate care they require to live fulfilling lives. Jen also provides us with tips and advice on caring for senior birds, whose golden years often bring unique health concerns.
We also talk with Jen about life as a bird artist who not only creates stunning birb art but also dedicates her life to rescuing and rehabilitating special-needs birds. Listen as she shares her journey...
The Aviator Bird Harness 🦜🌞
In this episode, we take flight with the aviator harness for birds! We sit down with the CEO of The Parrot University to explore the story of how this innovative product came to be. Julias shares aviator harness options and guides us through choosing the perfect size for your feathered babies! Learn essential training techniques for getting your bird comfortable with the harness, and discover tips for safe and enjoyable outdoor adventures.🧭🌲⛰️🏞️
Key Points:
How was the Aviator Harness created?What is the size guide?Why is this harness so safe?Why is it enrichment for birdsAviator Ha...Passionate Conservation with Amazon Parrots, Macaws, Cockatoos & Reptiles👀🐊
In this episode, I sit down to chat with Adele from Wildlife Unleashed, a passionate conservationist dedicated to creating safe havens for some of the most stunning birds, including Amazon parrots, macaws, Major Mitchell cockatoos, and red-tailed black cockatoos and many other animals! We discuss what it takes to run a sanctuary, free flight tips, flock enrichment, and more! Adele also shares insights on Australian wildlife and how their dedication is channelled through wildlife education programs aimed at inspiring and educating the public about the vital importance of conservation.
Key Points:
Journey to starting...Avian Vet Tips for Healthy Parrots!
Looking for tips from an avian vet tips for healthy parrots? In this episode, we talk with Dr. Octavio to help you with health tips for your parrots! From understanding our parrot's complex needs to shocking bloodwork results and identifying signs of illness early on. Discover the differences between healthy and unhealthy poops, and gain invaluable tips to keep your feathered fids thriving!
Key Points:
🦜 What does a healthy bird poop look like?
🦜 Signs of illness
🦜 Fractures and broken bones
🦜 Healthy tips & Household dangers
🦜 Shocking bloodwork results in parrots!
🦜 Can parrots get cancer?
🦜 Can...
Best Parrot Cages and Bird Travel
Want to know where to get the best parrot cages? & How to travel the world? In this episode, I share our recent updates and answer questions from a Q&A! I talk about where we got our Mia's cage and explore various options from different brands and places to help you find the best parrot cages! Learn about Parrot ID, including what it is and how it works. I also cover Bird-Friendly Airlines for domestic and international travel, discussing which allows your birds to fly in the cabin or cargo. Tune in for all this and more to keep...
Pet Chain Stores, Bird Hacks, Cats with Birds, Household Dangers for Birbs
Join Julie and me as we dive into the behind-the-scenes of birds found in big chain pet stores, share bird hacks, and offer tips for keeping your fids happy and healthy! We'll also discuss crucial topics like the impact of heavy metals on your pets, the importance of regular vet visits, and so much more!
Key Points:
Stories from Working at Big Chain StoresDebunking Instagram Birb mythsBird HacksInterspecies Relationships: Cats & Birds!What do Black Feathers mean?Kale Crisps and Veggie HacksHousehold Dangers and Heavy Metal ToxicityArlo’s Vet VisitMakeup and Skincare Around BirdsBlack Capped Con...Rescue & Disabled Birds, How to Make Seeds Healthy, Flock of 8, Biting Tips!
In this episode, we chat with David, a professional parrot trainer, on how he and his partner Sophie manage a flock of eight! David shares their journey of caring for rescue birds, including one with a missing leg! Get insights into providing specialized care for disabled parrots and find out the hard truth about crimson-bellied conures!😮 Plus, learn practical tips on how to deal with biting and enhance your parrot’s diet with healthier seed options.🙌🏼
Key Points:
Rescue birdsCaring for disabled birds Are crimson-bellied conures more difficult?Life with a flock of 8! Treat hierarchy tes...All about Caiques as pets and life of a birbfluencer!😆
In this episode, we dive into the cuteness of caiques! Join us as we explore the unique personalities of these lively parrots. From their playful antics to their affectionate nature, we chat about why caiques are so fun and what they are like as pets!
But that's not all – we also lift the curtain on the fascinating life of a birbfluencer. Ever wondered what it's really like behind the Instagram reels and viral videos? Learn about the joys and challenges of sharing your life with a feathered friends on social media.
Key Points:
...Eclectus, Indian Ringneck, Budgies, Tips Before Bringing a Bird Home & More!
Join us in this episode for some fun, tips and facts! We explore Jessa’s diverse flock and each of their personalities. She has a flock of six with an Eclectus, Indian Ringneck, Budgie, Sun Conure, Cockatiel, and an African Grey. We chat about some of the research she's done and interesting tidbits about all these different species!
Key Points:
Having a diverse flockFrom a mom: Are parrots like kids?Small to Big Birds as Pets Budgies!Eclectus!Indian Ringnecks!Powder vs Non-Powder BirdsDo parrots dream?Why are parrots scared of random things?Tips bef...Parrot Diet & Nutrition, Avian Teas & What Parrots Eat According to SCIENCE!
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of parrot nutrition, exploring their diverse dietary needs based on findings of scientific research on what parrots eat in the wild. Dr. Jason Crean shares what makes up a parrot's natural diet and the importance of replicating this diversity in captivity. We also explore the benefits of avian teas, which pellets are best, how to feed your birds and more!
Key Points:
Lorikeet DietToucan DietParrot DietPellets for ParrotsDiverse Foods for ParrotsWhy a Raw Food Diet is so ImportantCan behaviours improve with diet?Portion...Toucan Talk! All about Aracaris Toucans, Diet, Poops, Cost, Care & more!
In this episode, we jump into the vibrant world of toucans, specifically aracari toucans! Join us as we chat with Maria about everything from their unique diet and care requirements to understanding their lifespan and the potential vet bills involved. We talk about their most known feature - their big beaks, what their bites are like, what they are like as pets, why their poops are worse than parrots and all the differences and similarities between parrots and toucans! Tune in for this fun toucan special!!
Key Points:
Toucan factsAracaris ToucansCan you have them...Bird Trauma, Jardines, African Greys, Foraging Ideas and Hormone Season!😱
Join us in this episode as we talk with Ada from Parrot Disaster and Parrot Planet Poland about avian care, navigating the complexities of trauma in birds, the behaviours of various species, and how their hormones can differ, too! Discover Ada’s tips for foraging ideas to enrich your bird's environment and advice on setting up the perfect habitat in your home tailored to your bird species.
Key Points:
Dealing with Trauma in BirdAdopting ParrotsJardine and Pionus SpeciesAfrican GreysHealthy Parrot FoodsHealing a destroyed liver in ParrotsForaging Ideas How to Create a Parrot Paradise at Home...Senegal vs Cape Parrots, Bird Lamps, Aviator Harness, Beginner Birds, Nail Trimmings, and Living in Harmony with Parrots!
In this episode, we talk with the famous Parrot Wizard about the intricacies of ensuring your feathered friend's well-being, covering topics such as optimal sleep patterns, the importance of bird lamps, safe nail trimming techniques, and the benefits of harness training. Michael shares the unique characteristics and personalities of Senegal and Cape Parrots, as well as a comparison of having large versus small bird species.
Key Points:
Sleep for ParrotsBird Lamps - do they work? Are they beneficial?Importance of weighing birds!!Aviator Harness Training - the safest ways to take your birds outdoorsSunlight b...Macaws, African Greys, Biting, Plucking, Winter With Birds
Join us as we chat with Carlie, a bird mom to three macaws (blue and gold, military and scarlet) and an African grey. We discuss common challenges faced by parrot owners, including biting and plucking behaviours, offering insights and practical advice on understanding and addressing these issues. We'll also chat about parrot intelligence, uncovering the anatomy of their brains and the remarkable cognitive abilities that make them such intriguing companions. Carlie also shared the intricacies of winter care for parrots, ensuring their well-being in colder climates.
Carlie, who works closely with the World Parrot Trust, also shares...
Life with Blue and Gold Macaws, Macaw Bites, Free Flight Training and More!
Life with TWO Blue and Gold Macaws! The famous free-flighted macaws Mikey and Mia join us with their dad to talk about EVERYTHING MACAWS, from their size to the space they need, how loud they get, diet tips, and so much more! Find out how these macaws were rescued and whether this bird dad would release Mikey and Mia into the jungle if he knew they could survive. FIND OUT!!😮
Key Points:
🔵 Blue and Gold Macaws
🟡 Rescuing and Rehoming Birds
🔵 Wild Parrots
🟡The Problem with Breeders!
🔵 Macaw Bites
🟡 Free Flight Trained Birds
🔵 Noise leve...
Parrot Nutrition, Bird Illness and Poops, Immune-Boosting Tips, Gardening, Bonding Strategies, and Chi Chi’s Chop!
In this episode, we dive deep into bird health and nutrition with Laura from Chi Chi Beeen!🦜 Learn how to prevent illness, spot signs of a sick bird, and understand your bird's poops better. Discover tips to boost your feathered friend's immune system and gain valuable insights into their diet and nutrition.🥦 Find out the difference between dehydrated and freeze-dried fruits and veggies and a new way to offer chop with Chi Chi’s Chop!🥕
Laura also shares her journey, struggles, passion for parrots, and the world of gardening and how it’s changed her life.
Join us for...
Nutriberries, Dancing Pineapple Conure, Parrot Care Misinformation & Bird Dad Insights!
In this episode, we chat with the first BIRD DAD on the show! His pineapple conure is Instagram famous for his dance moves and love of nutriberries! He shares all about pineapple conures, how he found Bean's favourite treats and the realities of Instagram bird stardom. We also discuss the importance of research before getting a parrot, from understanding their care needs to their communication, and we share valuable tips on how to build a bond with your feathered friend, including the common question of "How to hold your bird in your hand."
Amidst the laughter and...
Green Cheeks, Pionus Parrots, and the Perfect DIY Perch
Join us this week with Marije as she shares life with her two Green Cheeks and her Pionus parrot. Discover how she created the ultimate parrot perch, makes her own nutriberries and how she provides awesome foraging opportunities for her birds. She has a unique bird room she created just for her birds and shares how she got into parrots. Marije shares her views of the bird trade, including some horrors she's experienced in the Netherlands. Find her on Instagram @yoshi_gcc 😀
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.inst...
Travelling Internationally and Domestically with Your Bird
In this episode, we explore the topic of airline and road trip travel with Ana and her sun conure Papuż. We chat about the essential aspects of international and domestic bird travel. We talk about Ana’s specific experience from Europe to North America with the requirements, paperwork, quarantine regulations, airlines, choosing the right travel carriers, and more! Buckle up for an informative podcast as we discuss the importance of diligent research and direct communication with the relevant authorities. Remember, the adventure of global bird travel is as diverse as the bird species themselves – each country has its own requi...
Sun Conures, Quakers, how to bond, preventing sickness, bird room ideas & more!
Join us in this episode, where Mimi from Mimis Bird House and I chat about the vibrant personalities of sun conures and quakers! Mimi shares her tips on bonding with your bird, proactive measures to prevent sickness, the do's and don'ts for creating the perfect bird room, how hard a sun conure and quaker bites and more! This episode is jam-packed with valuable info on these birds and how to ensure a happy, healthy, and harmonious relationship with your feathered friends!
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram...
Feathered Frights and Pumpkin Delights: A Parrot Halloween Special!
Join us in this festive Halloween episode, where BirdNerdSophie and I chat about pumpkins for parrots, fun Halloween ideas and activities for birds, and so much more! Discover how pumpkins and pumpkin seeds can be the ideal fall treat for our avian companions. Sophie also shares safety tips to guarantee a spooktacular yet safe Halloween for your parrots. Tune in for a chirpy, eerie, and informative episode!🎃👻
@BirdNerdSophie @BestBehavedBirds
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poodlesandparrots/
🥦 Freebies & EBOOKS: https://poodlesandparrots.com/products
💻 Helpful...
Navigating College Life with Birds, Parrot Rescues, and Wing Clipping
Join us as we chat about avian companionship, from the challenges owners experience to wing clipping and everything in between, including the responsibilities of having birds as a college student. Alex from Green Wings and Things shares what it's like to work at a parrot rescue and what types of parrots show up the most. This episode offers insights, advice, and more on quakers, cockatoos and budgies!
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poodlesandparrots/
🥦 Freebies & EBOOKS: https://poodlesandparrots.com/products
💻 Helpful Blogs: https://poodlesandp...
Mastering Bird Cage and Toy Cleaning with F10
In this episode, Alberta from the Cozy Beaks crew is back on the show, and we chat more about avian care as we explore the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment for your birds and the details of how to do so. Join us as we dive deep into the process of cleaning bird cages, perches, toys and how to use the avian safe F10 disinfectant. This episode provides valuable insights and tips to ensure your birds live in a healthy and clean environment!🧼
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepar...
Parrot First Aid, Bird Rooms, Foraging Ideas & Behaviour Challenges with Birds (Biting, Screaming, Resource Guarding!)
In this episode, we chat with Courtney from Flock Talk, who has a lot of experience working with rescue birds, challenging parrot behaviours, enrichment and more! We explore the aspects of parrot first aid care and share Courtney's free first aid guide, ensuring you're prepared to handle unexpected situations with more confidence. Learn how to identify signs of illness or injury and the essential steps to take to provide immediate care. Discover creative, fun ways to stimulate your parrot's foraging instincts and keep them mentally engaged. Listen in on valuable insights into understanding and addressing aggressive behaviours effectively and...
Updates, Flighted Birds, Predators & Interspecies Relationships (birds & dogs)
In this episode, I share our recent quick updates and discount codes for our parrot pals! Why is it important for parrots to fly and be able to use their wings? And what about free flight training? What about predators, and what are parrot predators? Can interspecies relationships exist between a parrot and a predator? I always get asked about dog and bird relationships, so I break it down in this episode!
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poodlesandparrots/
🥦 Freebies & EBOOKS: https://poodlesandparrots.com/products
...
Parrot Sleeping Positions, Parrots in the Wild, High Value Treats, Travel with Birds, & Perspectives from a Zookeeper!
Join us in this episode with our guest BirdNerdSophie as we decode the meanings behind parrot sleeping positions, explore their natural behaviours in the wild, talk about high-value treats and what they are, discuss travel as a parront and pet sitters, and discuss the issues with some parrot establishments. 🦜🎙️
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poodlesandparrots/
🥦 Freebies & EBOOKS: https://poodlesandparrots.com/products
💻 Helpful Blogs: https://poodlesandparrots.com/
📌 Pinterest: pinterest.com/poodlesandparrots
Parrot Harness Training and Wildlife Adventures in Australia!🇦🇺🦘🦜
In this episode, our guest, Georgia, shares her expertise on aviator harness training for parrots, sharing tips on making outdoor adventures safe and enjoyable for you and your feathered friends! Get to know charming Archie, a superstar pineapple conure, who can talk!
But that's not all – get ready to hear about the wild side of Tasmania! From snakes and spiders to adorable wallabies and beautiful flocks of wild parrots, Georgia shares her experiences as an Aussie!
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poodlesandparrot...
Parrot Punishment & Should You Get a Parrot if You Work Nights?🌝
Owning a parrot is a rewarding experience, but it comes with unique responsibilities, especially if you work night shifts! In this episode, I explore the pros and cons of adopting a feathered companion while working unconventional hours, discussing the importance of establishing a healthy routine for your parrot's well-being. AND Did you know that punishment doesn't work with parrots? I share why and the potential consequences of using punishment with our avian friends. We explore alternative methods to encourage good behaviour and build a strong bond with your parrot.❤️
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www...
Clean Air Matters! Avian Sensitivity & Air Purifiers 🌀🌬️
Discover the role of air purifiers in maintaining good air quality and what we can do to maintain good air quality in our homes. Learn why birds have such sensitive respiratory systems and how to protect them.
More on Air Purifiers: https://poodlesandparrots.com/blog/posts/clearing-the-air-for-parrot-health-the-benefits-of-air-purifiers
DREO: https://www.dreo.com/collections/air-purifiers
COWAY: https://cowayairpurifiers.com/
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theparrotpodcast/
🦜🐾 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poodlesandparrots/
🥦 Freebies & EBOOKS: https://poodlesandparrots.com/products
💻 Helpful Blogs: https://poodlesandparrots.com/
📌 Pinterest: pinterest.com/poodlesandp...
She ensures her bird's are thriving! Bird's are beings with a soul✨
In this episode, we chat with Alberta from The Cosy Cockatiels. We talk about our bird's personalities, the differences between birds and dogs, poop inspection adventures, delicious bird salads, how to make your own seed mix and more! Alberta shares her journey of using a microscope to inspect her conure's poop when it had an unusual smell and what she did! Alberta also reveals her secrets to creating beautiful and nutritious salads for her five cockatiels and one conure, offering tips for a well-balanced diet that keeps her flock thriving.
🎥 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/poodlesandparrots
🦜 Instagram...
