Bonfire Night: Reducing Stress and keeping your Birds Safe

Fireworks can be particularly harmful to wildlife, especially birds, as the flashing lights and loud explosions can startle and disorient them. With their acute hearing, birds are highly sensitive to sudden loud noises, making fireworks especially distressing.

To help reduce their stress, if possible, keep birds indoors overnight and use dim lighting to create a soft, consistent glow, which can minimise the impact of sudden flashes from the fireworks.

If the aviary is outdoors and cannot be relocated, consider covering it with a heavy dark material ensuring there is adequate airflow while protecting them from light and minimising noise disturbances. Also make sure the aviary is well-equipped with plenty of bedding, perches, and hiding spots to give the birds a sense of security. They might prefer enclosed spaces for hiding. Additionally, play calming music to help mask the noise of fireworks.

Stress can also increase their metabolic rates, so it's important to provide plenty of food and water for their comfort. Try offering a nutritious blend like our Budgie Breeders 50/50 Seed Mix, Deluxe Canary Mix and Foreign Finch Mix these are deal for keeping them comfortable and well-fed. To help them feel secure, avoid separating them from familiar companions, especially if they’re part of a bonded group. Providing a steady supply of food, such as options from our Priced to Fly! range can help maintain a calming routine. Lastly, limit handling, particularly before or during the evening when they may be more prone to stress. A consistent routine, paired with comforting food options, can help create a reassuring environment for your birds.

By following these steps, you can help ensure your aviary birds remain safe and comfortable during the noise and chaos of bonfire night. As an owner, you'll also have peace of mind knowing you've done your best to protect them.

Written by Tina