Molting is the name given to the shedding or loss of old feathers while simultaneously growing new ones. Molting is a very stressful period in a bird's life, growing new feathers requires considerable energy, If the bird is already on a good diet, no change is necessary. However, a seed only diet may need supplements during the molting period. Good nutrition is essential. This is where Healthy Bird products will help tremendously. See Molting

All birds have the capacity to be social to more than one person. However, the person it see's the most and depends on the most is the one person it will have a main bond with. It's all how you raise your bird. The best comparison would be a "best Friend" scenario, you have many friends but there are certain things you share ONLY with your "best Friend". This is the same for birds.

Most birds are okay being left alone for several hours. However, no bird should ever be left alone for an extended amount of time without making proper arrangements with someone to look after them. Even while you're out for several hours, you should always have background noise such as a radio or TV on for your bird. Always ensure that your bird has enough stimulating toys in order to capture his/her interest. All birds, big & small love toys even finches and canaries.

This is dependant upon the relationship you want with your bird. If the reason you have birds is to admire them from a distance, than 2 birds is fine together. If you purchase a bird to nurture as a companion than introducing or buying 2 birds will usually compromise the bond between you and your bird as they will have each other to depend on for companionship, preening & socializing.

Usually, the hen is allowed to sit on them for approx. a week at which time they are removed. Cockatiels can be prolific egg layers and lay multiple clutches within a year.

Stress is a physical, emotional or chemical factor that causes mental or physical tension and may be a factor in disease susceptibility. It's important to understand that all new bird's are stressed to some degree, new environment, perhaps molting, separation anxiety, breeding, change in diet etc...

Yes, you are able to trim smaller birds such as finches to cockatiels nails with any of the above scissors. Larger birds such as African Greys, Amazons & Macaws require a special tool (Dremmel bit will do fine) to trim their nails.

Cutting the very tips off known as blunting is all that is necessary. See Nails

Finches & canaries as well as most grass parakeets and some conures are not known for their talking ability. However, you must always keep in mind that even African Greys can grow to never utter a word. Not unlike people, birds each have their own personality as they are all individuals. If talking is very important to you, look for a bird that has already started to mimic words. This way you stand a better chance that he/she will continue adding words, sentences & phrases to its repertoire.

Introducing a bird to a new environment means new sites, sounds & smells. Each bird will react differently to its new surroundings, and it will take time to adjust to these changes. Move slowly around the birds' cage, no sudden movements until the bird is feeling comfortable which may be 24 hours or maybe even a week? Quick motions or hand movements can startle the bird. Don't expect too much too soon from your new bird. Birds can not be expected to tame, talk or trust overnight. These desired behaviours take time, effort & trust from both you and your bird. Patience will gain you a lasting relationship with your bird based on trust and not fear. Don't create too many changes at once for your new bird. Remember everyone is a stranger and avoid parading friends & neighbors in front of the bird's cage until the adjustment period is well under way and than slowly introduce the bird to new people.

Yes, birds do get aggressive during molting season. As explained earlier, molting is when a bird sheds or looses its old feathers at the same time its growing new ones. I compare molting to "PMS" because of the unpredictable nature & moodiness of the bird during this time period. When many feathers are lost during the molt, birds require additional warmth. As new feathers grow in, increased preening is necessary to remove the keratin sheath protecting the new young feathers. Needless to say, it's a lot of work as well as uncomfortable for the bird. Try not to handle the bird while molting as new pin feathers are very sensitive to touch. Sometimes birds look for assistance from their owners in taking off the keratin sheath surrounding the new feathers. Read your birds body language and respect his/her needs. NEVER EVER trim birds' feathers during a molt.

Never give your birds' avocados, rhubarb, onions, chocolate as well as other junk foods and alcohol.

Bird Guard is a preventative treatment for mites. The remedy is dependent upon the severity of the mites, most typical remedy is Ivermectin.

It's not usual for birds to get fleas. However, they are known to get mites which if left untreated can be severely unsightly, early treatment with Ivermectin could prevent disfiguration.

Daily bathing is ideal, sometimes twice is recommended. Bathing is an excellent way to encourage preening, and it's an important part in good grooming.

No, it's dependent upon how the bird has been raised. Most birds do not require having their cage covered.

Most birds are more comfortable up high as they don't feel as if they are prey and the height gives them the dominance advantage.

No, it's best to keep birds perched at or below the level of your heart. Birds do not see humans as their masters, but as other flock members. By allowing the bird to perch on a higher position looking down at you convey that he/she is the dominant member of the flock. This of course has exceptions, but in general Birds will begin to take advantage of this higher stature and can become "rascals" that get out of hand. Establish the proper pecking order by keeping your bird at heart level while on you. Your heartbeat will also have a soothing effect on the bird..