Photo by Glen Location: Moab, UT Drinking: Military Macaw "Cash"

I forgot about how much adjustment most parrots need when moving to a warm weather place like Florida. My birds came from Saipan, which is pretty much like Florida but maybe more humid? Not sure. It's pretty close...

I make sure that my parrots have plenty of water in the summer because it gets so darn hot, that even their water gets warm sometimes and I don't know about them, but I know I hate drinking warm water. So it's important to keep it cool for them and try to put it in the shade. I have a huge bowl I will fill and put at the bottom of their aviaries just in case it's extra hot out.

I also try to keep a spray bottle handy to be able to mist them down if they start looking over heated. In aviaries it's super important to have lots of water, and lots of shade so the bird isn't forced to be in direct sunlight. You can also give fruit during the day because it gives the bird extra hydration from the juices in the fruit.

Other than that getting used to the new weather stage, my birds have done great here in Florida and are able to stay outside year round. They love the rain, and the fact that it rains every day really helps them cool down.

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.