Photo by Dave Location: Holland America Stateroom Shower Wet head: Congo African Grey "Cressi" 

Although your bird should be bathing 5-7 times a week, force bathing your bird to do so is not the equivalent to that. No bird should be forced to bathe – if he or she is running in fear from the water, do not make him stay under it. Getting your bird wet is not bathing your bird and if you have ever seen a parrot truly enjoying bathing you will know the difference I am referring to.  Birds who want to be bathing will raise their wings and make sure all the necessary areas are cleaned properly from their bath. They will spread the water over themselves in those hard to reach places (under the wings and under their plumage) so if they aren’t enjoying it; it’s not doing that much good for either of you. Not only will you be associated negatively with the water, but they’ll associate water negatively too which is the last thing you want.  More on bathing...

Article by Jamieleigh Womach. She has been working with parrots and toucans since the age of 17. She isn’t homeless but is home less than she prefers to be. She travels the world with her husband, daughter, and a flockful of parrots whom she shares the stage with.