National Pet Bird Day

Colorful image of a person with a pet bird on their shoulder, surrounded by vibrant feathers and a garden backdrop.. — National pet bird day illustration

Welcome to the wacky world of National Pet Bird Day! Gather 'round, bird enthusiasts and feathered friends alike, because we're about to dive into the wild and wonderful celebration of our feathery companions. Whether you have a chatty parrot, a melodious canary, or even a mysterious owl as a pet, this special day is all about appreciating our avian friends and their unique personalities.

When is Pet Bird Day?

It's national pet bird day on the 17th September.

The Internet History of National Pet Bird Day

Do you ever wonder how someone decides to dedicate an entire day to pet birds? Well, let's take a dive into the internet time machine and find out!

Believe it or not, the origins of National Pet Bird Day can be traced back to a viral video that took the internet by storm. It all started when a talented parrot named Polly stunned the world with her impressive mimicry of popular tunes. People couldn't get enough of Polly's musical skills, and soon, social media platforms were flooded with videos of pet birds showing off their own unique talents.

Soon after, a group of bird enthusiasts decided to create a day that not only celebrated the incredible abilities of pet birds but also raised awareness about responsible bird ownership and conservation. And thus, National Pet Bird Day was born!

Since its inception, this delightful holiday has gained support from bird lovers around the globe. It has become a time to showcase the beauty and intelligence of our feathered friends, as well as educate others about proper bird care.

Did You Know?

Did you know that parrots are not only excellent mimickers, but they can also outlive their human owners? Some parrot species have a lifespan of up to 80 years or more! That means if you adopt a parrot as a pet, it could become your lifelong companion.

History behind the term 'Pet Bird'

15th century

The Birth of Aviculture

During the 15th century, aviculture, the practice of keeping and breeding birds as pets or for ornamental purposes, started gaining popularity across Europe. This marked the beginning of people welcoming birds into their homes as companion animals.

18th century

The Emergence of 'Pet Birds' Term

In the 18th century, as the trend of keeping birds as pets continued to grow, the term 'pet birds' started to be used widely to specifically refer to these domesticated birds. It became the common term to describe birds that were kept for companionship.

19th century

The Golden Age of Birdkeeping

During the 19th century, the keeping of pet birds experienced a significant surge in popularity. This time period marked the rise of birdkeeping as a fashionable and respected hobby, especially among the wealthier members of society. Exotic and colorful species, such as parrots, canaries, and finches, were highly sought after as pets.

20th century

Birds as Beloved Companions

In the 20th century, the concept of pet birds evolved further, with a greater emphasis on birds as beloved companions. Birds, once considered primarily for their ornamental value, became cherished members of many households. This shift in perception brought about an increase in research, care, and understanding of pet bird behavior and welfare.

Present Day

Advancements in Avian Care

Today, the term 'pet bird' encompasses a wide range of species and continues to be widely used to describe birds kept as companions. With advancements in avian care and an understanding of their specific needs, pet bird owners provide enriched environments, balanced diets, and social interaction to ensure the welfare and happiness of their feathered friends.