Advances in avian medicine have changed the emphasis from infectious diseases and emergency medicine to wellness care. The importance of nutrition and behavior in the health of psittacines has been acknowledged and plays a major role in pet bird wellness programs. Mass importation of wild-caught psittacines was curtailed in the mid-1980s. The current pet bird population is comprised primarily of captive-bred parrots. This has resulted in novel medical concerns and unique behavioral challenges. The knowledge base regarding psittacine and other pet bird diets and husbandry continues to increase, as does the realization that it is necessary to provide a psychologically suitable environment for these complex animals.

Last full review/revision July 2011 by Teresa L. Lightfoot, DVM, DABVP (Avian)