Cockatiel Care Guide: Housing, Diet and Welfare
A cockatiel care guide covering cage setup, diet, social needs and health signs to watch for – general husbandry information, not veterinary advice.
Getting Started: Choosing Your First Pet Bird
Different pet birds suit very different households – a budgie or cockatiel is generally easier for a first-time owner than a large parrot, which can live 40+ years and needs far more daily interaction. Consider noise level – canaries and finches are generally quieter than parrots and cockatoos. Consider lifespan – some parrot species can […]
Getting Started: Bonding With and Handling a New Rabbit
Rabbits are prey animals by instinct, so they typically need time and a gentle approach to feel safe with a new owner. Let your rabbit approach you first rather than reaching in to pick them up straight away. Rabbits are generally happier with all four feet on the ground than being held up in the […]
Getting Started: Reptile Enclosure and Heating Basics
Reptile care varies enormously by species – a leopard gecko, a bearded dragon and a corn snake all need very different temperatures, humidity and enclosure setups. Research your specific species’ temperature gradient and humidity needs before buying any equipment. A thermostat-controlled heat source is generally safer than an unregulated one. Reptile adverts go through manual […]
Getting Started: Freshwater vs Marine Fishkeeping
Freshwater and marine (saltwater) fishkeeping are quite different hobbies – marine setups are generally more expensive and technically demanding, and usually not the best starting point for a complete beginner. A cycled freshwater tank is the standard recommended starting point for new fishkeepers. Marine tanks typically need more specialised equipment (protein skimmers, live rock, precise […]
Getting Started: Choosing Between Guinea Pigs, Hamsters and Gerbils
Guinea pigs, hamsters and gerbils are often grouped together as “small pets” but have quite different care needs and temperaments. Guinea pigs are social and generally do best in same-sex pairs or groups, not alone. Most hamster species are solitary and should usually be housed alone as adults. Gerbils are social and active, and appreciate […]
New this month: Photo Competition, Bird Shows & Events, and Lost & Found
The Aviary Hub has added several new sections: a monthly Photo Competition, a Bird Shows & Events listing, and a Lost & Found Pets board. Have a look around and let us know what you think.
Getting Started: Bringing Home a Pet Bird
Birds vary hugely by species – a budgie, a canary and an African Grey have very different needs, lifespans (some parrots live 40+ years) and noise/social requirements. Research your specific species’ diet, cage size, and social needs before bringing one home. Find an avian-experienced vet in advance – see our Avian Vets directory. Check any […]
Getting Started: Bringing Home a Pet Rabbit
Rabbits are social animals that typically do best with a bonded companion, need a large amount of space to hop and stretch, and have specific dietary needs (mostly hay, with limited pellets/vegetables). Research housing size, diet, and companionship needs before adopting. Find a rabbit-experienced vet – not all vets specialise in rabbits. See our Animal […]
Getting Started: Bringing Home a Pet Reptile
Reptiles have specific temperature, humidity, UV lighting, and dietary needs that vary enormously by species – what suits a bearded dragon will not suit a corn snake. Research your specific species’ enclosure, heating/UV, and dietary requirements before buying any equipment. Confirm any licensing or documentation requirements for that species. Find a reptile-experienced vet in advance. […]