BirdCast

One of the most breathtaking finches to keep in an aviary in Australia is the exquisite Purple Grenadier Finch (Uraeginthus ianthinogaster). Native to Africa, this stunning bird was last officially imported into Australia in the mid-1940s. While it has specific care requirements, adapting your aviary to meet its needs will be well worth the effort. A male Purple Grenadier basking in the sunlight is a truly spectacular sight, making this finch a rewarding choice for any dedicated bird enthusiast.Birdman Dad You Tube  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPY7Oh4zOdznC2SRV4esVWwInstagram    Birdman_dadFacebook  https://www.facebook.com/p/Birdman-Dad-100068951525496/https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619/

A special treat for our loyal BirdCast listeners - a special episode for your enjoyment and education!For decades Jurong Bird Park in Singapore held the mantle of the biggest and most impressive bird collection available for viewing and exhibition to the general public. Jurong Bird Park had the biggest man made waterfall located inside a massive walk in avairy - 30 m tall - and the aviary was lush and planted out in all types of plants and flowers.  The bird collection was astounding and at the time the park demonstrated some of the most innovative bird housing arrangements.But as time moves on and technology improves Jurong's environment became outdated and so has been re-invented and re-invigorated into Bird Paradise!Bird Paradise is located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve of Singapore. It sits alongside the Singapore Zoo.Bird Paradise has utilised the most up to date aviary construction methods and materials and hosts a multitude of absolutely enormous walk-in-avairy collections. Bird Paradise covers around 17 hectares (42 acres) offering double the walk-in-avairy spaces of Jurong Bird Park. A must see is the Hong Leong Foundation Crimson Wetlands - which houses free flying macaws of all types AND the re-created Jurong Falls - although still spectacular and offering a much appreciated cooling mist in the very humid weather of Singapore - the new waterfall is 20m tall - never the less it is still spectacular!If you are visiting Singapore and have even a slight appreciation for birds, do make the effort to go and visit Bird Paradise.If you are like Birdman Dad and the BirdCast team Bird Paradise is sure to become your bird pilgrimage site.https://www.mandai.com/en/bird-paradise.htmlWe have placed photos and videos on instagram, Facebook and have also created a You Tube video of the visit.https://youtu.be/ovwoRgYQn4Qhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=en

For the final episode for 2022 Birdman Dad is having a chat about what he suggests when you receive new birds into his aviaries and what he does regarding quarantine.We wish all our listeners a very safe and merry festive season and a very Happy 2023.Hope to have you all back listening again in 2023.If you miss our chats be sure to go back and listen again to the many other episodes.Best wishes.The BirdCast team

You may (or may not) be aware but there are no glossie black cockatoo homelands in Western Australia AND there are no glossies on public display either.So what do West Aussies do when they want to see a glossie??  Well a group of youth we found out in a suburb of Perth have created an art exhibition all about them!  It's quite amazing, and humans from all over Australia have chipped in to make this a fabulous experience - from donating their pet glossies feathers so West Australians can feel and touch a glossy feather, to permitting people to use their photos of glossies to model their art upon, to providing virtual messages of support.It's a fabulous, small exhibition out at Ellenbrook Arts at 34 Main Street ELLENBROOK.  Running until the 10th December 2022.  Be sure to check the opening hours before you head out there!

Building aviairies or remodelling existing aviaries can be as much as a hobby as the birds that end up in them.  Birdman dad has been building and remodelling aviaries either for himself or helping out other bird keepers with their aviaries for as long as he can remember.  This time he is building some holding aviaries for young birds - both parrots and finches.Also this episode the Aviculture Society of South Australia has kindly donated one of their books - "Is it Safe?  The birdkeepers' pictorial guide to safe and poisonous plants".  If you are interested in winning this booklet please get onto our socials - insta, facebook, messenger or reddit and leave us a comment.  We will select a random winner and the book will be yours.  We only have one to giveaway and we will select the winner next fortnight - so be sure to let us know if you are interested!

It's spring and your avairy kept birds need to have a varied diet to keep healthy and support their babies.  Listen in for some hints and tips on products that can be helpful in keeping your birds in top health.

Some aviary birds need extra attention when it comes to new introductions - especially several species of finches. Today Birdman Dad is going to share with you, amongst some other ideas, how you can create a finch introduction space.BirdCast also has on offer to one listener the South Australian Aviculture Society's booklet -"Is it Safe? The birdkeepers pictorial guide to safe and poisionous plants" - obviously being published in South Australia this is about the plants in Australia - but we are quite happy to mail it Overseas if that's what the lucky, randon listener wants!  To enter - make a comment or send a message on our Instagram, Facebook or Reddit pages:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068951525496Instagram: birdman_dadhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=enReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/

There are a few essentials you need to have when you have pet birds, one of those is a confinement/hospital/hot box - a small, warm space a pet bird can go when they are unwell.Today's episode discusses these boxes and some suggestions on what to do when a sick bird has left the box.  Hope it helps someone (and their pet bird) out.

Many years ago an old farmer shared with me his realities of having livestock; he reassured me that even though it was saddening (and at times devastating emotionally and to lineage genetics) that if you are involved with living things, then innately you will be involved with deceased living things. I regularly remember his words as I move in and around aviculture.Today Birdman Dad shares some suggestions about how to avoid aviary tragedy as well as some suggestions on how to manage birds that just aren't seeming content with their environment.  Hopefully there will be some information in today's episode to help someone with issues in their own aviaries!

The scarlet chested parrot would have to be one of the most colourful small parrots of Australia; a little parrot ,hat like the budgie , has found itself living in the most unusual places throughout the world.  What was once a common bird seen in and around the Swan Valley of Western Australia is now only seen naturally in the more remote, desert areas on the very fringes of human occupation.  So cherished were the scarlet chested parrots ,they were shipped all over the globe, long before native animal exports were halted.  This amazing little bird has been bred throughout the aviaries of Europe and the Americas to produce the most astounding natural colours that would never be imagined when a novice looks at a normal scarlet chested parrot.These unassuming, but stunningly beautiful parrots have made their way into the hearts and homes of many a bird lover.Birdman Dad chats about his love of the normal scarlet chested parrot and caring for them in these cooler months moving into breeding season and the many colours he used to keep in years prior.Though primarily about scarlet chested parrots Birdman Dad just shares some recent activity with his finches and offers up some suggestions on what you could be doing in your aviaries at this time of year.

Birdman Dad is back this week - talking about what he is up to with his pet birds but also the little gems of wild bird life he gets to glimpse and be part of because he keeps pet birds.And he is learning all the time!As well as chatting about some recent aviary bird experiences concerning his finches and scarlet chested parrots.

There is great nutrition, enrichment and usefulness is all sorts of plants for aviary, companion, rescue and zoo living birds - in fact so many plants are so good for every bird's health and general wellbeing.  But sadly many bird owners are unsure of, or unaware, of the plant treasure trove in their very own gardens.Many bird owners are unsure which plants are "safe" and which ones are going to make their birds sick.So hopefully today's episode can help you out!While Birdman Dad is away working his "real job" the crew have stepped in to chat about what plants they grow in their garden and in their aviaries, that are not only good for their birds to eat, but also provide much needed enrichment and mental stimulation as well as being useful nesting and protection materials.Remember the BirdCast competition is still on!  Get your entries in to win Dr Dan Klem's book - signed and with a personal message.Due to very important birthday celebrations BirdCast will take a short break and be back on FRIDAY August 5!For either of the 2 booklets mentioned contact The Avicultural Society of South Australia (Inc):"What seeding grass is that? The birdkeepers' pictorial guide to seeding grasses""Is it safe? The birdkeepers' pictorial guide to safe and poisonous plants"https://birdkeeping.webbsoftware.com.au/https://www.facebook.com/groups/106693059415107

Some items in Birdman Dad's aviaries have been in need of a change for some time and this winter it has happened - a bit like the automatic watering system in the summer - it just takes a while to get things sorted, especially during the past few years of material and tradesmen shortages.  A long standing issue of bird breakfasts getting wet when it's raining has finally been solved.  And both Birdman Dad and the birds are happy with the solution!Don't forget to enter our competition and be in the running to win one of Dr Dan Klem's books - Solid Air : Invisible Killer Saving Billions of birds from windows books.  Just answer the question of what is the special idea that we humans could use in new building glass that would make both birds and humans happy.  The hint: it has to do with what birds can see but that we humans can not see.  Just drop us a message on either our You Tube, instagram or facebook pages with the answer!

In response to listener requests today BirdCast is presenting a very brief review of what people can do to help birds with regards to their existing glass windows and glass pool fencing.  This is a real snap shot of what you can do - just remember in windows whatever you"do" has to be on the outside of the window - and everything must cover the entire glass space and be no more than 5cm apart.Any art pen markings or the paracord must be 3.5mm thick.There are photos of all these options on  Bird man Dad's instagram, reddit and facebook pages.Be sure to get your entry in for our listener competition!Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=enReddithttps://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/

"We are their only, hope, and I am confident we will make our windows safe for birds because it is the right thing to do."  Dr Daniel Klem Jnr, 2021.This is the third episode concerning the very large conservation issue of wild bird deaths because of clear glass/plastic used as glass - the glass we have in windows, sliding doors and pool fencing.  This episode is all about what we are doing in Australia, how much an issue it is in Australia and what products are available today for purchase in Australia to make glass bird safe.BirdCast encourages all Australians to supply information to Birdlife Australia, and/or the Global Bird Collision Mapper - for without enough Australian based information (despite the international data) building codes and all three levels of Australian government are highly unlikely to change to become bird safe.A first for BirdCast is our first listener competition! Be sure to listen in for the information we require for an entry.We can only accept entries who have an Australian based postal address.Good luck to all our interested listeners!Bird strike information:Birdlife Australia - Bird Strike Project:Online surveyhttps://birdlife.org.au/projects/urban-birds/bird-strike-projectGlobal Bird Collision Mapper:https://birdmapper.org/app/Retrofitting existing windows and glass pool fencing:BirdScreen:https://www.birdscreen.com/Zen Curtain - paracord curtain: DIY instructionshttps://www.birdsavers.com/make-your-own/Glass films:Solyx film - the film used at Mary Cairncross Rainforest Discovery Centrehttps://www.windowenergysolutions.com.au/window-film/decorative-window-film/Feather Friendly Tapehttps://www.featherfriendly.com/residentialCollidEscape stickershttps://www.amazon.com.au/CollidEscape-Strikes-Prevent-10-Year-Performance/dp/B06VVBRKVZ?th=1New Glass:Both these products are proven to be bird safe in all applications but are both based internationally.  If you are interested in new glass that is  bird safe in all applications suggest you contact National Glass Australia - https://www.nationalglass.com.au/Walker Glass - AviProtekt Thttps://www.walkerglass.com/products-options/aviprotek-t-pattern-713-transparent-bird-friendly-glass/Guardian Glasshttps://www.guardianglass.com/us/en/why-glass/build-with-glass/applications-of-glass/glass-for-facades/bird-friendly-glassBirdCast contact points for Competition:What's on offer 2 x signed copies of Dr Dan Klem Jnr's book - Solid Air Invisible Killer: Saving Billions of Birds from Windows - Dr Dan Klem Jnr has also written an inscription inside the book - a special message to BirdCast listeners!Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619https://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=enReddithttps://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/Email:goosemanki8@gmail.com

As stunning and useful our glass windows, doors and pool fencing is; it conceals a dark secret - annually it is killing millions of our beautiful, free flying wild birds.. and that's a conservative estimate.Help be part of effective change to this simple to solve environmental problem.Become part of the critical mass of bird admirers that demand effective change to our glass users - builders, architects and government departments who control the use of glass in all our buildings.Join our guest Dan Klem Jnr, the world authority on this very issue, as he discusses the solutions that exist to limit and reduce birds hitting our glass.  All of us can apply these effective, research proven strategies to the glass in our lives.Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619https://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220Reddit:https://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=en#:~:text=Birdman%20Dad%20(%40birdman_dad)%20%E2%80%A2%20Instagram%20photos%20and%20videosDan Klem's book:https://www.booktopia.com.au/solid-air-daniel-klem/book/9780888396464.htmlMaking glass bird safe:Existing glass:Retro fitting film for existing glass (USA calls it tape)https://www.featherfriendly.com/residentialhttps://www.collidescape.org/The Paracord bird savers - Zen as used in Brisbanehttps://www.birdsavers.com/make-your-own/https://www.3m.com.au/3M/en_AU/graphics-signage-au/applications/windows-and-glass/Novel or new build glass:https://www.walkerglass.com/products-options/aviprotek-t-pattern-717/Brisbane Commercial building using paracord:https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-10-28/the-curtain-saving-birds-from-hitting-glass-windows/11638774

Today's episode (Part1) is a plea to humans of our world to change what they are doing for the sake - and lives - of all wild birds. And everyone can take part - with somewhat reasonable ease - to alter their own solid air and literally save billions of our beautiful, wild birds.For as "noice" as clear sheet glass (or the plastic alternative is) - you know the glass we use in windows, pool fencing, exhibit barracades, building frontages - reflective glass included -  this material is lethal to the free flying birds of our world.But don't take BirdCast's word for it - instead listen to the world authority on this issue that has literally dedicated decades of his life to researching the issue, examining the existing building use of clear sheet glass and most importantly how each and every human on this planet can reduce this needless slaughter for the sake of an uninterupted view.  Daniel Klem (jnr) is a Professor of Ornithology and Conservation Biology at a University in Pennsylvania.  He has dedicated some 47 years to researching the issue of bird strike on glass windows/barricades and states that this issue is quite literally killing billions of birds worldwide..... yet no one is reporting the issue, and worse, we humans keep building with the glass as we have done for years, making no changes what so ever to rectify the bird deaths. We simply can not "offset" the magnitude of these wild bird deaths.Dan has written a book on this exact topic, and how every human can take their own steps to reverse the carnage - from individual home owners, to Local Government Planning authorities, to National building Codes creators - every human has a role. Dan's book is called:"Solid Air - Invisible Killer: saving billions of birds from windows".  The book explains that where ever standard clear or reflective sheet glass exists so do dead birds. But it also explains how easily this problem can be rectified.Join BirdCast in this discussion of this significant environmental calamity, but also join us in the solutions.  This discussion will be presented over 2 episodes.https://www.booktopia.com.au/solid-air-daniel-klem/book/9780888396464.htmlFacebook - Birdman Dadhttps://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=enReddit:https://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/

Your pets need regular care to maintain their health.BirdMan Dad explains how he keeps his scarlet chested parrots (Neophema splendida) happy and healthy.Hopefully one of his suggestions will help you and your own avairy birds.If you have anytopics you would like to hear about please contact BirdMan Dad:Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=enReddithttps://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/

Today's episode is in response to a listener question...."How do I stop my outdoor metal aviairy rusting?"Hope the episode gives this listener, and anyone else with a metal aviary, some ideas on how to limit rust occuring or how to deal with it if it actually happens.All relevant photos will be placed on Birdman Dad's Facebook pages, instagram and reddit.BirdCast wishes all the listeners a safe and peaceful Easter break 2022 - BirdCast is taking a break and will be back the Friday after Easter.FaceBookhttps://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1&hl=enReddithttps://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/You Tubehttps://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPY7Oh4zOdznC2SRV4esVWw

Even the best aviaries in the world can become outdated (in product options) and no longer servicing appropriately the birds kept within them.  New advancements in available products are always on the go and sometimes the species of bird you have selected to keep do not suit the actual aviaries you have in your backyard.  This is often a problem faced by birdkeepers on all scales from zoos to the backyard. So what can you do if this is the situation in your bird life?Of course you can always just demolish them and either repurpose or resell the aviary materials - and we have done this a few times... or you can make the choice to re-design what you have to suit the bird species you keep - making both their lives and your own a little better.This week Birdman Dad shares what items he has selected to add in to his re-designed aviaires. What was once a ringneck parrot complex, then a neophema one - is now mostly a home to a variety of finches and Birdman Dad explains some of the redesigned elements and what and how he added into his existing structures to make them more suitable to suit the species he now keep.Hope this information helps someone in the redesign mode!Photographs will be published on Birdman Dad's facebook, insta and reddit pages.

**  How can we express our shock at the events of Thursday 24th February 2022? Birdcast has a loyal group of listeners from Ukraine and our thoughts are with them, their families and their avian family (as well as other innocent animals) during this darkest time in their lives.  Out of respect to these people we have delayed our podcast launch. A small gesture we know but one we could actually do in recognition of the tradgedy.  We hope for peace to return to Ukraine and surrounding countries quickly**Today's episode is all about getting your aviaries and your birds prepared for the breeding season ahead.  Hints and tips about preparing your environment now that the very hot weather/summer is moving along.If you have any ideas or suggestions please be sure to contact us!The items mentioned will be placed onto the facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220https://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1and Reddithttps://www.reddit.com/user/birdmandad/

BirdCast has come back to visit the naretha aviaries but not to talk about naretha bluebonnet parrots instead the cleaning of the aviaries and some hints and tips on nest box and general aviary management.If you keep aviary birds yourself you will know how important it is to manage your bird's living space on a daily basis so as to keep your birds happy and healthy.Hope that some of the suggestions offered up will help you in your bird keeping journey.All the items/aviary points mentioned will be posted to our instagram, reddit and Facebook pages - the links are below:Insta: birdman_dadhttps://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619or https://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220Reddit:https://www.reddit.com/r/Birdmandad/

You don't even need to leave Australian shores to find natural wonders that exist nowhere else on planet Earth.The Great Western Woodlands of south western Australia is a place of temperate forest that exists no where else and it is massive in size.Within the woodlands exists flora and fauna unique to this forest and on a camping trip many years ago Birdman Dad was lucky enough to spot not only a family group of black backed Inland Western Rosellas - said to be a racial variant of Platycercus icterotis xanthogenys - but also had another amzing bird literally just drop by!All the photos mentioned will be shared on Birdman Dad's socials:Instagram: Birdman_dadReddit:  u/birdmandadFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619If you have a great bird find story be sure to share with Birdman Dad!

Wow summer has sure burst into Western Australia this season.  The Christmas week was unbelievably hot and there's been a few more days since and no doubt many more to come.All birds no matter where they live in this part of WA will be feeling it, including any outdoor aviary kept birds.Please put out cool, fresh water regulalrly in suitable access containers for our precious wildlife! Cool, clean water is quite literally a lifesaver on these hot days.And try out some of these ideas to keep your aviary birds comfortable.If you have any other ideas please let us know:1. birdman_dad on Instagram2. u/birdmandad on reddit3. Birdman dad on You Tube https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPY7Oh4zOdznC2SRV4esVWw4. Birdman Dad on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/groups/18924417776436195. email: goosemanki8@gmail.com

Join BirdCast as they cook up a festive treat for their parrots and finches;  this cake is a favourite choice and enjoyed by all the feathered friends who are lucky enough to receive it!Let BirdCast know if you have your own  favourite avian receipe!Happy New Year 2022 to all the BirdCast listeners and we are hoping you have a safe and happy holiday.Remember to go and check out our instagram or Reddit accounts to see the photos!Insta: Birdman_dadReddit: u/birdmandad

Welcome back to BirdCast after our covid19 break!We launch off today with a Citizen Science Project.. the hunt for the black throated finch  (Poephila cincta) (southern subspecies).. in northern New South Wales and southern Queensland.Poephila cincta became famous back a few years ago  over the planned (now approved) coal  mining operations in the Galilee Basin in Queensland. The Galilee basin holds rich coal deposits, has multiple mining areas owned by various companies/organisation some headed by very well known people and is also one of the last Queensland refuges of the Poephila cincta :( .  A people power movement was started to stop the coal mine development, amongst which was the "Black Finch Project" instigated by Melbournite creative, Charlotte Watson. https://www.charlottewatson.org/black-throated-finchDespite the massive street protests and the many and varied personal protest held under  #stopadani the mine is proceeding.  https://www.stopadani.com/ Due to the significant expected impact on this finch, the black throated finch became the banner for the #stopadani movement.Voted Australian Bird of the Year in 2019 in the Guardian newspaper's poll was still not enough to change the minds of those who approved the Adani/Carmichael coal mine.https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/nov/15/black-throated-finch-wins-2019-bird-of-the-year-as-tawny-frogmouth-comes-secondPoephila cincta did not only live in Queensland .. it was also known to live in northern New South Wales and southern Queensland.It was however declared EXTINCT in New South Wales in 2016.Spurred on by the rediscoveries of the night parrot over Australia, and the impending black throated finch doom in the Galilee Basin, a collaboration between  3 organisations : Australian Society for Avian Preservation (ASAP), EnviroKey, and the Finch Society of Australia has emerged in these Covid times and the hunt for the black throated finch - southern species - is ON  AND  the team needs your help!Today's episode is all about the hunt for the black throated finch.https://www.facebook.com/blackthroatedfinchprojecthttps://snelandcare.org.au/component/content/article/134-e-news/1353-help-us-find-the-black-throated-finch.html?Itemid=437&fbclid=IwAR0a6JntzJCcPySNWaDXwKmM98QDpqrxBeXLbYJlxuX6p3LUupp3l431_y8

"To survive today, other animals must endure global warming, pollution, and fewer habitats.More tragically, they must endure the silence of human hearts>"Anthony Douglas WilliamsPart 2Hear what the Artemis Nature Fund is doing to preserve the last stronghold of the wild golden shouldered parrot.Want to see it for yourself? Check out the videos at:https://artemis.org.au/Donations to the preservation efforts for the golden shouldred parrots aka antbed parrots at Artemis Station can be made to the Fund directly via their webpage or you can donate via Landcare Australia until 18th December 2021:https://fundlandcare.org.au/campaigns/saving-golden-shouldered-parrots-by-practical-on-ground-actions/Back on December 17th 2021!!

"To survive today, other animals must endure global warming, pollution, and fewer habitats.More tragically, they must endure the silence of human hearts".Anthony Douglas WilliamsAustralia is well known for their history of flora and fauna extinctions, and it seems to be a national trajectory from the lowest level of government to the highest; we keep "developing" land at unsustainable rates and all the "little" developments accumumulate into a mega sized snowball.  We have so many "recovery plans" for the habitats we remodel, to the point that most of them can never be fully funded to fruition.  The environment, though everyone talks about it, is lowest on the funding ladder and there simply is not enough tax payer funds to support every plant and creature that is in need.  At some point in the very near future the average Aussie is going to have to realise that the government just can't fix each and every habitat that we destroy in our development frenzy, it is in fact going to be up to the every day Aussie to say enough is enough, and put their own hand up and say "it is up to me".It's just this sort of attitude that created a plan to save one of Australia's most threatened parrot; the antbed parrot aka the golden shouldered parrot; also known to the Olkola people as the alwal. Since the 1920's the golden shouldered parrots have disappeared from more than half their range in Cape York Penninsula.  Situated within their northern homelands is Artemis Cattle Station, considered by many a scientist, parrot lover and bird watcher to be the last stronghold of this parrot, but even here their numbers have declined from around 500 to now less than 50.  The owners of Artemis Cattle Station, Tom and Sue Shephard, have spent decades trying to ensure that this particular parrot survives, but in recent years have become so concerned over the ever decreasing population, that have stretched out their hands (and their hearts) to a group of scientists and supporters who are willing to get things doing and moving into the direction of actual ground work recovery. This collaboration has become the Artemis Nature Fund.Today's podcast opens the doors (and hopefully listeners hearts) to the life of a golden shouldered parrot and the birth of the Artemis Nature Fund.This is a 2 part "special" that is our gift to the dedicated listeners as our Season 4 finale.This has been an extraordinarily long Season 4 - our demonstration of solidarity with our fellow Australians, and people throught this world, in various lockdowns through Covid19.  BirdCast went past the usual season ends to provide lockdown listeners, as was the request, with something bird related to listen to.  But as the lockdowns have lifted we are going to take a break and hunt down some great stories for season 5.So unlike previous episodes Part 2 of Silent Hearts - a pathway to extinction for antbed parrots will be next week! Be sure to listen in.https://artemis.org.au/

When Larry and Barbara retired to the south of Western Australia they " thought" their days of research and development were behind them - that was until some large and noisy neighbours decided to drop in for a drink.  Since arriving at their home in Nullaki, Western Australia;  the 3 species of black cockatoos - which are all endangered - The Carnaby cockatoo/ngolyenok, Baudin's cockatoo/ngolak and the Forest retailed cockatoo/karrak - have made such an impression on Barbara and Larry that they have decided to dedicate their property to the preservation of the species and are inviting every day people to join them in the battle to halt the extinction of these magnificent birds.So was born the Nullaki Cockatoo Nursery.The Nursery is in the City of Albany within the Nullaki  natural wilderness, around 50km west from the regional town of Albany, Western Australia.  It is truly stunningly serene and has been placed under strict wilderness protection through a  conservation covenant by the City of Albany.The word Nullaki is a local indigenious word in noongar language meaning "narrow place of seaweed"  - making reference to the nearby inlet (later named Wilson's Inlet by the first european settlers).Within this Nullaki wilderness Barbara and Larry have listened to the noisy black cockatoos and set up artificial cockatoo nest tubes to compensate for the lack of available cockatoo sized nest sites. They have started with 20 for now and are offering other humans who are interested the ability to buy one of these nest tubes, to make it their own. They are selling these already installed nest tubes for $250AUD. The tube will become the property of the purchaser.  Barbara and Larry then voluntarily host the owner's cocky tube in a tree on their own property in the area where all the cockatoos are looking for suitable nest sites.  Barbara and Larry make no money from the sale of the cocky tubes, the $250 is what they paid to have the cocky tubes supplied and installed.  They volunatrily offer their time and offer their trees to the new owner's tube.They have also ensured that the tube's will always be protected and be able to stay ion the "cockatoo nursery" for the lifetime of the tube is written into Barbara's and Larry's land ownership, so that no matter what happens to them, the new owner/s will have to ensure the tube is always in the tree and at the disposal of the cockatoos to use - black cockatoos if they successfully fledge young will return to the same nest site for their lifetime - that way protecting the investor's purchase. On purchsing a tube Larry and Barbara mail you a hard copy of the cocky tube details and a information letter explaining all the ins and outs of the Nullaki Cockatoo Nursery cocky tube purchase.Realising that not every human has $250 to spend - Larry and Barbara are also offering an entry level rental for $50/breeding season.  This private model is something entirely novel to the conservation of the black cockatoo scene of Western Australia and is 100% sure to ruffle some feathers.Nullaki Cockatoo Nursery Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1716700181869100Email: barb.geno@activ8.net.auWill post Nullaki Cockatoo Nursery photos on Birdman Dad insta, reddit and Facebook pagesbirdman_dadhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619

The future life of all avicultural societies, clubs and organisations will be determined by the ability of the hobby overall to engage and recruit the younger generation.We are forever hearing in the media that Gen X,Y,Z... are engaged with their smart phones and social media platforms and not much else; so if that is the case; how can aviculturists today inspire and encourage younger people to put down their phones and engage in a real live bird in an aviary rather than a insta video?Bernie O'Leary is a long time aviculturist who has a life time of caring and admiring the Wonder of Birds and has a clear passion for encouraging the youth of his local area to share and develop their life skills through bird related experiences. Led by his granddaughter's, Naomi's, passion to establish a school-based aviary at her own school, Bernie has provided the necessary foundations to support Naomi's enthusiasm and, together with the lead garden teacher at the College, there is now an aviary that is located within the working gardens of the primary school section at Carey Baptist College in Harrisdale, a southern suburb of Perth, Western Australia.The College is so proud and committed to it's " Aviary Project" it even features in it's most recent promotional video!Listen in to Bernie as he chat's about his own bird experiences, and what his thoughts are about establishing a school based aviary, the benefits to the students and the wonder of birds.  This is just the beginning of this fantastic project and we think Bernie has much more planned!Carey College promotional video with the Aviary Project (point 1.14)https://fb.watch/8qG1KO_mVs/

Cockatoos are indelibly linked to the Australian outback, often through popular image culture, and this popular photography subject has indeed proven in recent times that cockatoos reside not only in the bush, but are also moving into many of Australia's bigger cities and towns (check out Cockatoo Wingtag - Big City Birds).As these big white cockatoos become part of Australia's urban landscape, the average Aussie is misled into thinking that all theses big white cockatoos are all the same and belong to all the same family. The big white cockatoos with the yellow crest is known as the sulphur crest; scientific name Cacatua galerita galerita; and this is known as the nominate race.  The C.g.galerita lives over much of Australia. But like so many Australian parrots,  what you think you see, is not always what you think you are seeing.. in the case of the sulphur crest cockatoo, there is in fact 3 types!Today BirdCast is chatting with Stephan Maric, who is a birdkeeper and bird lover living in Melbourne, Victoria and is one person who knows a lot about the C.galerita.galerita and C.g.fitzroyi - aka Fitzroy (or Matthews) sulphut crested cockatoo.  Stephan shares a wealth of knowledge about caring for the Australian cockatoos in your life and is a living advert for the value of bird clubs - if you know the Health Department adverts of Act, Belong, Commit - you will understand Stephan's passion for the bird club he belong to - The Avicultural Society of Australia.The photographs Stephan mentions in the podcast will be shared on our instagram page and on the #100parrots Project page - be sure to check them out!the #100parrots project:https://www.facebook.com/groups/455490802208727Birdman Dad insta page:https://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1Cockatoo wingtag Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/CockatooWingtagsAvicultural Society of Australia webpage:https://asaust.com/the bird worming solution Stephan talks about:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moxidectin

Egg binding is a problem that can be encountered with any female bird - from chickens, to budgies, to aviary finches.There are several suggested methods on how to treat this issue and of course prevention is always better than any cure.  Birdman Dad offers up his suggestions on what to look for if you suspect one of your birds may be egg bound, and some suggestions on what you can do to help the bird.Prevention of course is always the best and Birdman Dad also discusses what you can do to limit this from happening in the first place.The item mentioned "quick gel" is a Dr Rob Marshall (avian vet) product.https://www.birdhealth.com.au/quik-gelHope this episode helps you and your birds should you have a case of egg binding.

Finch keeping is a worldwide hobby.  Come listen to the yarns of finchkeeper Ray as he shares his finches stories, finch suggestions and hints and tips for other finch keepers.The items Ray mentions that he uses:Grit Ray is currently using for his finches: FitGrithttps://www.naturallyforbirds.com.au/naturally-for-birds-information-update8Ray also uses Polly's GritRay also spoke about "milk seed" - this is grass seeds that have been grown and then harvested semi-ripe and then placed in a freezer for later use.  There is a photograph of this milk seed up on our instagram page and Birdman Dad facebook page.https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619https://www.instagram.com/birdman_dad/?show_story_unavailable=1The finch club that Ray spoke about is the Finch Society of Australiahttp://www.finchsociety.org/

Despite this being the age of Google and instant information via smart phones, bird owners are still regularly "caught out" when making purchases for their feathered friends that are quite simply " not bird safe". In fact most retail stores (both brick and mortar and online) still in 2021 sell a plethora of "bird" items that are in reality nothing more that a bird injury (or worse) waiting to happen.So what items are not in fact "bird safe"?  Why are "unsafe" items still being sold in Australia to the uneducated bird owners and lovers? and Are there "bird safe" alternatives? And why do birds even need any of these items?These were just a few of the questions we asked, and that other listeners asked us to find out!Thanks to the assistance offered by Jesse from  "For the Parrots" we have found out all the answers to these particular questions, and MORE!The pages mentioned in the discussion:web page/online store: https://www.fortheparrots.com/https://www.facebook.com/fortheparrotshttps://www.instagram.com/fortheparrots/Latest Birdie Blog:https://www.fortheparrots.com/post/toy-safety-what-to-look-out-for

Apart from the usual, obvious bird accessories and utensils - like bowls, water dishes etc - Birdman Dad chats about the "other" helpful tools that, through his experience, he believes are "must haves" for any bird keeper/owner/guardian.Hope you find something useful for your own birds in this list!If you have any other suggestions to add onto the list please let BirdCast know!insta:  birdman_dadFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1892441777643619/Facebook: (Community): https://www.facebook.com/Birdman-Dad-1678314232464220/Reddit: u/birdmandadYou tube:  https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCPY7Oh4zOdznC2SRV4esVWwLet Birdman Dad know what things/items/gadgets you use in your aviaries or with your pet birds that make everyone lives happier and healthier!

A proverb from the Indians of North America says –“To understand the man, you must first walk a mile in his moccasin.”.Today's episode invites you to walk in the moccasin of Chadi, the founder of the most embattled parrot rescue in the world.  Text can not give due justice to the depth of this challenge so will type no more and leave it to the podcast.Parrot Rescue Lebanon details: You Tube movie created by a “friend” of PRL:https://youtu.be/4o3xQExHpwg PRL – fund donations: (listed in preference)  :       no amount is TOO small ....Western Union – Chadi kachi    (if asked - Country is Lebanon - Street - Zalka)                                      - please msg Chadi the reference number of the WU transfer so he can                                                        collect safely. Paypal:  chadikachi@hotmail.com Go Fund me:  https://gofund.me/fa4adc85  PRL Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/LebaneseAnimalRescueandConservation PRL instagramparrot_rescue_lebanon 

The relationship between birds and plants can never be underestimated. The habitat created by plants for all birds provides them with valuable nutrients and minerals that can never be fully replicated in any man made foods.For aviary kept birds planted aviaries provide valuable nutritional benefits as well as much needed enrichment and safe zone protection that every captive bird is undoubtedly going to receive benefit from, creating a happier and healthier bird.Birdman Dad offers up various suggestions of which plants you may want to consider in "planting out" your aviary, no matter the type - to give your feathered friends some joy and much needed enrichment.Plants suggested an used by Birdman Dad (note many are Australian/West Aussie native and indigenous plant species):One sided bottle brush: Calothamnus quadrifidusMouse ears aka granite net-bush: Calothamnus rupestrisOven's wattle: Acacia pravissimaFC Payne aka Payne's thryptomene: Thryptomene saxicolaBlue hibiscus: Alyogne huegeliiwhite hibiscus: Alyogne huegelii albaKunzea baxteriGrevilleas - many are suitable but suggest Winpara gemCoastal honey myrtle: Melaleuca acerosaHoney myrtle - many are suitableRosemary bush: Salvia rosmarinusLavender 

Due to some scheduling and technical issues we sadly can not bring you a new BirdCast today.Please go back in the library and listen to your favourites - and if you are in the southern hemisphere below the tropics - last fortnight's episode on keeping birds warm would be a good one to re-listen to!BE back next Friday.Thanks for listening!

In general Australia is known for it's hot and sunny weather but this week there has been snow events and very cold weather for much of the country.Birdman Dad shares with us some of his hints and tips to warm up your aviaries in the winter months and provides some useful winter suggestions for the birds in your care.The rodent control Birdman Dad speaks about are the first generation ones and also Racumin (which is Coumatetralyl). A new one he is also trialing is the "NATURALS: Ratsak" which is made of all natural ingredients, works on an entirely different pathway to the usual - and who Yates states has no secondary poisoning ability.  Much safer to all our natural rodent removers such as snakes, lizards, owls, eagles, kestrels etc.  We all need to consider our wildlife and the impact we have through the items we use.

Little Beaks is a rescue/rehoming bird sanctuary that focuses on small parrots/parakeets - budgies, cockatiels, doves, canaries and finches.Sadly (like most bird rescue/rehomers) Little Beaks is in high demand  :(Partly due to the unethical breeding behaviours of a select group of small parrot owners and partly to the continued human lack of knowledge concerning living with a small parrot - especially when it comes to caring for and sharing your life with a single budgie/cockatiel/canary living in a small cage.It seems somewhat unbelievable that in the age of Google and internet access that people are still not knowing that birds in captivity need more than a seed diet and that a solitary life in a small cocky cage is not the best life for a bird.  But ask Little Beaks (probably any bird rescue/rehomer) and they will tell you these issues persist in a modern, pet trade focussed bird society with access to the internet.When it come to caged bird welfare these are Little Beaks top tips:1. Before you even step into a backyard or pet store do your research on the bird you think you want in your life.2. Use reputable bird breeders - one who manage their breeding birds ethically and can show you clearly what they do, how they keep their birds and the care they give them.3. If you buy a cage/patio aviary/aviary replace all the included dowel perches with real branches.4. Use branches before bird safe rope; and if you buy a rope perch ensure it is made with bird safe fibres.5. Never use plastic perches.6. Provide your bird/s with a varied diet including good quality seed, sprouts, vegetables and fruit.7. Avoid clipping any birds wings; if you must clip your bird/s wing/s consult with an avian vet and have the clipping done by an avian vet ONLY.8. Never release your pet bird if you no longer want it or if you are having trouble caring for your bird - seek help from a vet or bird rescue service.Little Beaks wants to clarify when talking "bird breeders" this is referring to unethical, uneducated bird welfare humans who bird farm, and is not referring to those aviculturists who care for and breed their birds ethically with great care and concern for their birds and educate themselves in bird welfare, nutrition, provide large aviaries and free flight opportunities for the birds in their care and acknowledge the need for captive breeding of birds that are endangered or threatened so as to maintain a species dna and for those who provide captive birds for re-population of restored habitat homelands.Little Beaks FaceBook:https://www.facebook.com/LittleBeaksLittle Beaks Instagram:instagram.com/little_beaks

All over Australia land is being developed at an astonishing rate - that in itself is not surprising as we are a country in a national building mode - but what is shocking, and disappointing, is that in 2021 we, the trophy holders for most mammal extinctions, want to extend our extinction rates into other species, and continue to utterly destroy vital habitat, especially large trees, in our efforts to build human homes and facilities.Councils, Cities and Shires will approve these developments; saying they are just a small habitat removal; not a significant size; but what they are failing to see is the big picture - all these small removals are cumulative.We are most blessed in Australia to be home to an amazing array of stunning parrots, and one of these  is the Glossy black cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) our smallest black cockatoo that now days is mostly living in eastern Australia. The Glossy was once widespread across the whole of the south-eastern part of Australia, but it has become locally extinct in South Australia and only remains on SA's Kangaroo Island.  You would think we would learn from this event.Up in Queensland, in a most beautiful part of the world, in the domains of the Shire of Noosa, lies the beautiful beach side community of Sunshine Beach.  (Seriously Google the place and see the phots for yourself!).  Sunshine Beach has been developing (like the rest of Australia) and the area is in demand for obvious reasons, everyone who is anyone wants to have a piece of Sunshine Beach.  So habitat for the indigenous animals of this Biosphere Reserve is reducing significantly and no "offset" planting is going to cut it for the animals that have more particular diets or those requiring old growth trees. The Glossy black cockatoo is one of those particular animals.The glossy black cockatoo feeds off a particular tree, in fact almost solely on the seeds of casuarina trees in the genus Allocasuarina - in Sunshine Beach they eat A. littoralis.  And to make their diet even more specialised, the seeds they eat only come from female Allocasurina littoralis trees!And these are the exact trees that grow on a 5 hectare virgin bush block at Grasstree Court at Sunshine Beach - a block of land that has been purchased by the Uniting Church of Queensland to develop into an aged care facility and the land development was approved by a prior amalgamated Shire of Noosa.Enter Spencer Hitchen - a 10 year old Wildlife Warrior supported by his mum, Maxine and the Glossy Team Sunrise, who as local down to earth citizens are trying desperately to negotiate a land swap that will be facilitated through the new Shire of Noosa and be between the Uniting Church and the Shire of Noosa.  The hiccup is the Uniting Church of Queensland has to approach the new Shire of Noosa, and this is Spencer's aim; to get the Uniting Church to see his, and other Glossy lover's point of view, that this 5 hectare property that the church owns is indeed precious, important and essential to the long term survival of the local Sunrise Beach glossy cockatoo flock.Petition:https://www.change.org/p/uniting-church-help-spencer-to-stop-the-church-to-save-our-glossiesFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/maxine.hitchen.98https://www.facebook.com/groups/glossyteamInstasavesunriseglossiesemail:savesunriseglossies@gmail.com

Domesticated birds, like all pets humans share their homes and lives with, have a financial cost attached to them which has to be met by their human owner.  Just like the average dog, cat or horse, pet birds need to be fed, housed, watered and given veterinarian attention as required.  All these essential care items cost money and it is the bird/s owner/s who have to provide the required funds. All this is a given and is a point that should be carefully considered when first deciding if you want to keep a bird, in fact any pet.Through the amazing insights social media has provided us all access to;  today we  can see photographs and videos of the most amazing and extensive bird aviaries and companion bird jungle gym rooms. And these owners deserve the accolades and praise they receive for treating their feathered friends to the very best of everything that their owners can supply them  with; but what if you don’t have a lot of money, and can’t purchase your bird the very latest cuddle barn?  Can you even keep a bird or birds on a limited income?Today’s guest, Tom, speaks to us candidly about his bird keeping journey over many years, and many budget types – from the days where funds allocated to his much loved feathered friends was not any real hardship to finding himself, through injury and disease, having to part with his much loved cockatoos.  Tom shares with us all some hints on how to keep birds when you are on a limited income and we hope these suggestions are useful.Above the content we hope that you can all hear the love and gratitude Tom expresses for having his feathered family members in his life.  The clubs mentioned in Tom’s talk:The Avicultural Society of Australiahttps://asaust.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1786916591615820 Geelong BranchP.O.Box 865 Geelong. 3220 Mob: 0411036664 Krystal email : geelong.asa@gmail.comVenue – Belmont Park Pavilion. Barrabool Rd, Belmont. Meeting commences at 7.30pm on the 3rd Monday of the month

Sometimes we forget how very precious and unique our own backyards are, and that we don't need to travel thousands of miles to be some place that exists nowhere else on the planet.  For today's guest the Perth Hills is that very fabulous and special place. And it was this appreciation of knowing  the Perth Hills was the special land at the end of the yellow brick road, that led this young woman to write and publish her very own bird watching guide of the special birds endemic to her own patch of paradise.Talitha may only be a young woman, but she knows the value in the Jarrah and Marri trees that create the Perth hills forests. These forests have evolved in this special part of Australia for millions of years and are found nowhere else on the planet.  As such they have created a unique ecosystem in which Talitha has explored and provided an insight into the birds that chose to make this special forest their home.Join us in this episode to listen to the intriguing story of why a young Australian chose to share her passion for birds with the rest of us humans who share this world.Talitha mentions several organisations and businesses - these will be listed below.If you wish to obtain a copy of her book "Birds of the Perth Hills" you can visit one of these mentioned places or contact her via email -talitha@westnet.com.auBooks are $22 each and $5 postage within Australia.If you are wanting international postage please email Talitha directly.Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centrehttps://www.kanyanawildlife.org.au/visit-us/Snap Printing Midlandhttps://www.snap.com.au/snap-midland.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb_MidlandThe Environmental Printing Companyhttps://www.environmentalprintingco.com/Places where "Birds of the Perth Hills" will be for sale:1. Mundaring Tourist Bureau aka Perth Hills Mundaring Visitors Centrehttps://www.perthhillsmundaring.com.au/Pages/default.aspx2. Hot Shots Coffee Vanhttps://www.facebook.com/hotshotscoffeevan3. Gidgegannup Post Office4. Robyns Coffee VanDon't forget we have pictures of the book on our instagram page:birdman_dad

The human fascination with birds and keeping them in their homes has been part of human existence for 1000's of years.The surviving frescoes and mosaics of ancient civilisations such as Pompeii shows the prominence of birds in people's homes. Chinese historians suggest that birdkeeping became an established social event during the time of Qing (1644-1912) when the nobles of the Qing dynasty and the court eunuchs kept birds in their homes to fill in time, giving them something to do.  So the notion that birdkeeping, as in keeping birds in the house with you, is a modern Western society phenomena is simply not true.Today we chat with Bruno Mars and his owner, Ruby Smith. Bruno is a cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) aka weiro bird.  Bruno is actually a re-homed bird and Ruby has owned him for some 10 years.  If you love "teils", or have your own companion bird, or are considering getting a companion bird have a listen in to what Ruby has to say about her 10 years of living with Bruno and how she lovingly provides this boy a forever home.Birdman Dad will be posting video and photos of Bruno and Ruby on his Instagram page:Birdman_Dadand on his sub-reddit-u/birdmandadand pintrestBirdman Dadso if you are keen to see their pics we hope we have them up on a platform you can access!

Although many people are quick to condemn the pet shop trade - pet shops offer a valuable contribution to aviculture overall.Firstly they provide a great visual presence to the general public, in that they show a variety of birds and also place these birds within the realm of more widely accepted domestic pets such as cats and dogs - how often have we all heard people say "set them free" - when in reality these birds are domesticated; just like a cat or a dog - and if they are set free they will simply perish either from starvation (because they are domesticated) or from predation (hawks, cats etc).  Placing them alongside other widely accepted pets helps reinforce to the general public within the store that these birds are in fact not wild birds, rather birds that have grown up in a captive setting.Secondly, birds in pet stores, particularly in the dedicated bird stores or the independent bird (and generally fish included) stores offer a showcase to customers of what birds are available in the local area, and give bird owners, or want to be owners, some idea of the variety of  birds.  It is essentially a type of window shopping.  Many a time the Birdman Dad team take a drive to go and see one of the independent bird speciality stores in Perth, just to see what's there - sadly in Perth there are not really any bird parks or wildlife parks that have a great selection of birds on display. The exception to this would be Caversham Wildlife Park (listen in to our 2 episode visit to Caversham in Season 2).Thirdly, the local bird store offers an outlet for those whose birds breed - whether intentional or not - a place where they can sell the offspring.  Some bird stores will buy the young outright and sell them, others will offer a commission type arrangement.  For a smaller city such as Perth, where the bird trade is so much smaller than in the eastern states or overseas; this aspect to the local pet shop is a great option. Not everyone wants to deal with "customers" face to face; add in the security concerns of having unknown people to your home and this "pet shop" option is often far more attractive.Finally, and by no means exhausted in a list of reasons, the pet store offers a multitude of avian related products for every bird type kept - from aviaries, to seed, to avian supplements, to enrichment activities to a huge variety of associated products.Added to this list; in the smaller, independent bird stores - the humans working in the stores have a great love for birds and in general an extensive knowledge concerning most things avian.  If you are unsure of what bird would be best for you and your situation, and you are not wanting to attend a bird club, or ask anyone on social media; just have a quiet chat to the humans behind the pet shop desk.  If you choose your time well; that is when the shop is quiet and the customers are not knee deep at the counter; you will find most bird pet shop humans are happy to talk to you about birds, their needs and what bird might be the best match to your lifestyle.In Perth we do not have the huge selection, or volume of bird and pet stores compared to other cities.  Despite being small there are still some independent bird speciality pet stores and it was one of these stores the Birdman Dad Team visited in today's episode.The anti stress product mentioned by Birdman Dad in today's episode:Quick Gel - a product created and distributed by Dr Rob Marshall of Carlingford Animal Hospital NSW, Australia.https://www.birdhealth.com.au/quik-gelAnother similar product would be Vetafarm's Spark product:https://vetafarm.com.au/product/spark-liquid/orD-3 Vitahttps://www.pigeonandbirdproducts.com.au/online-shop/cage-aviary/d-3-vita-detailorVita Stresshttps://www.afrimash.com/shop/veterinary-products-and-services/vet-medicine/vita-stress-multivitamins/

Today's episode epitomises the core philosophy behind the very creation of BirdCast - the sharing of information between bird keepers and owners.We are very grateful for today's guest who was willing to share the knowledge he has accumulated over many, many years in the keeping of finches. Our guest,Les, who lives in a tropical area of Queensland, Australia explains to the BirdCast team the aviary finch keeping issues particular to the climate in which he lives, as well as his own aviary design. He also shares with us all a wealth of information about how he looks after for the finches in his care.If you keep finches, this is a "must listen" episode with many fabulous and informative hints and tips.Les mentions several particular products and the club in his chat and these are listed below.Again if you have any feedback on BirdCast we would love to hear from you!Melaleuca Irbyana plant: https://apps.des.qld.gov.au/species-search/details/?id=26403Black Parrot small bird food with turmeric and fish oil: https://www.lauckemills.com.au/products/category/BGFIRCTN-birds/7973Avian Pro Vita (bird pellets): Noah's Avian Health: https://www.facebook.com/NoahsAvianHealthQueensland Finch Society: https://qfs.org.au/Polly's Calcium Grit: a blend of shell grit, oyster and Canundra shell, vitamins and other goodies. Contact John (02)49383552 for orders.

How does a nature loving, non-birdkeeping young Aussie guy with no background in aviculture become a leading authority on the captive breeding of one of Australia's most endangered large birds?Today's episode is truly an amazing story!A "by chance" encounter with a pair of painted black cockatoos (South Eastern red tailed black cockatoo aka Calyptorhynchus banksii graptogyne) in a bird store back in the 1990's, set in motion a lifetime of learning and dedicated caring of this stunning red tailed black cockatoo.Our guest today is William (Bill) Palmer - a Graptogyne custodian.Bill's knowledge of this bird species is extensive. The Graptogyne is endangered in their homelands and their ultimate survival in the wild is precarious. Bill has made it his life's work to raise the Graptogyne successfully in captivity so as to preserve this species DNA, allowing it to act as an insurance population, should something happen to the wild population.Bill is one of a handful of people able to raise this peculiar species in captivity, and he is willing, in fact wanting, to share his knowledge so that it is not hidden from other people wanting to preserve this bird for future generations. Bill has a Facebook page where he posts photos of his birds, the captive bred young and his information concerning this bird - if you are keen on seeing this very special species it is one of the few places you can see "chick" Graptogyne photos:https://www.facebook.com/Goliath-Parrots-327128311468907Bill's ultimate life plan is to create a sanctuary dedicated to the Graptogyne - not only providing a suitable habitat for these birds but a place of learning where interested people can learn how to care for this bird species and fortify their survival into the future. Understandably this project requires funds so Bill has created a "Go Fund Me" project to raise some much needed funds to kick off his sanctuary plans - as the Graptogyne is a very long lived bird (but no one actually knows how long they survive in a captive setting) the birds in Bill's care currently are sure to outlive him - so he needs to future proof the Graptogyne's futures. If you feel inclined, no matter how small the amount, please feel free to go over to this link and donate what you want.www.gofundme.com/f/q85uk6?pc=fb_co_emailupdate24&rcid=r01-161355366193-a1e3724cd60646b3&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&utm_campaign=p_email%2B3201-24hr-reminder-v5&fbclid=IwAR3Elsu4l1ckq3WoICH_PIkgd8lBJhwY-5N-DUsAeCEE8BjhiqnpDrVf4rQWe are certainly looking forward to the next chapter in this bird story!Once again - we love to hear your feedback! You can contact via the following methods:Instagram: Birdman_dadYou Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPY7Oh4zOdznC2SRV4esVWwReddit: r/birdmandademail: goosemanki8@gmail.com

Pretty much all birds enjoy semi-ripened grass seeds - from the biggest macaw to the tiniest finch. There are many grasses that grow naturally in our gardens, balcony pots and verges - but what exactly are they and how good are they for a bird? If these are some questions you ask yourself then today's episode is for you!Bird Keeping in Australia has created a great booklet on this exact topic and today Birdman Dad is discussing the book and how it can be of help to you; and your birds.Bird Keeping in Australia is the official publications of the Avicultural Society of South Australia Inc - and just as a side note; this particular bird society was founded in February 1928, and is the first avicultural society to be established in Australia!Here is the link to their facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/Bird-Keeping-in-Australia-Avicultural-Society-of-South-Australia-415386255302715This Avicultural Society still publishes a colour monthly magazine and meets in person when permitted. People can join the society and there is an annual membership fee. Bird Societies and clubs are repositories of bird related knowledge so if at all you are unsure of an issue there is always someone in a bird society or club who is sure to know the answer you seek!The booklet being discussed today is:"What seeding-grass is that? The birdkeepers' Pictorial Guide to seeding-grasses"Cost = $12.50 (postage included within Australia) + postage for international orders - for Non-Society membersIf you want a copy please order by:1. Making contact via the Facebook group2. Emailing Richard: amalurus@adam.com.au

Birdman Dad thought that today's guest might be of great interest to the listeners as he is discussing some great, simple hints and tips to help you take better photos of your own birds. We all like to keep and share great pics of our own birds!Today we are speaking with Chris Tate, a well known West Australian nature photographer.Chris has recently published a book called -"West Australian Birds & Wildflowers - Tips to capture them on your camera, phone or device".In the book Chris has provided his personal tips on the best ways to photograph nature (all from his personal experience) whether using a SLR camera, smart phone or a device.This small book, which is packed full of hints and tips, as well as full page stunning photos of birds and wildflowers of Western Australia can be purchased from Have A Go News - via email message: info@haveagonews.com.auor by telephone:Australia (08) 9227 8283The book is $25 AUD plus postage and handling ( an additional $6 if within Australia - enquire about international postage costs).OR if you go to his webpage you can order the book there direct:https://christatephotography.com/Also on his webpage you will see a variety of different photographs Chris sells - Some lovely bird photos amongst those captures for sure!Being a professional photographer Chris also has a Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/ChrisTatePhotographyBirdman Dad hopes you enjoy today's episode! We would love to see some of your "Tated" bird pics! If you want to see some of our captures head over to Instagram:birdman_dad

Water. It is essential for life - if you think about it our planet should be called "Water" not Earth!All birds need water, aviary birds included.Fresh, cool, clean water can never be underestimated.Water is a known medium that bacteria and other illness causing pathogens can breed in and transmit quickly to your birds, so you want to keep your aviary water sources fresh and clean.Birdman Dad shares with you how he provides water to his birds, both as in what he puts the water into, cleaning and how he fills his bird's bowls. Hopefully this will also give you some ideas on how to give water to your birds.BirdCast would love to hear your feedback on the podcast!You can contact us on:Instagram: birdman_dadYou tube: Birdman Dademail: goosemanki8@gmail.com

This episode the BirdCast team is taking an aviary visit to see for themselves the beautiful and unique Naretha Bluebonnet parrot ( Northiella narethae) aka the "Narrie". The naretha has been a bird of concern for many years and is currently listed as Near Threatened in the Australian state of South Australia and Fauna Priority 4 in Western Australia - which indicates fauna which is rare, near threatened and other species in need of monitoring. How the naretha bluebonnet came to be in today's private aviaries is a fascinating story in itself and one well worth telling!So if you enjoy aviary visits, and hearing about how other backyard birdkeepers care for birds you are sure to enjoy this episode!Notes from the episode:Facebook page mentioned:https://www.facebook.com/Naretha-Bluebonnet-Parrots-of-Australia-1043833309041193/Tummy rite product:https://tummyrite.com.au/products/tr_plVetafarm Spark:https://vetafarm.com/product/spark-liquid/Dr Rob Marshall's Quick Gel:https://www.birdhealth.com.au/product-page/quik-gelAny questions or suggestion please make contact with the BirdCast team:Instagram: birdman_dadYou Tube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPY7Oh4zOdznC2SRV4esVWwEmail: goosemanki8@gmail.com