Dolittle DVM

Budgerigars are the cutest, most amicable floofballs around.  They're not usually aggressive towards other birds by nature and will make up quickly after a slight scuffle.  But, under certain temperaments or if put in certain situations, they're also fierce, aggressive birds that given a chance will readily put their neighbour in a tight spot.  Here are some telltale signs of an aggressive bird - Signs of Aggression Typical signs of aggression in budgies and behaviour preceding a fight include -  1.  Lunging and attempting to bite or nip 2.  Screeching and hissing 3.  Flying and trying to land on another bird 4.  Plucking or pulling at another bird's feathers 5.  Chasing 6.  Head bobbing with feather fluffing with pinned irises (when the iris gets very small) Unless you observe two or more of these together repeatedly, keep in mind that these are general signs; your budgie may just be playing with the others.  Pinned irises are ofte...

Budgerigars, often called budgies, are one of the most popular bird species amongst bird owners. Their friendly personality, adorable character and active persona make them increasingly preferable when picking a pet as a new owner.  However, beneath that mischievous, cute disposition is sometimes a fierce, territorial avian that will not hesitate to dispose of others it dislikes; this can be seen when keeping them with other birds, including budgies. Here's a list of reasons why your budgie may be showing aggressive behaviour towards its fellow birds (my articles on signs of aggression and how to prevent aggressive behaviour have been linked in the section below) Why Is My Budgie Showing Aggression Towards Other Birds? Budgies, while not aggressive by nature, tend to show aggression under certain circumstances or due to their personal temperaments. In general, reasons for aggravation can include - 1.  Territorial Behavior : budgies can be highly territorial when they feel thei...

~ Turbo trying to finish before the others come ~ Turtles are the literal definition of an introvert, with red-eared sliders being no exception. They also tend to be overly picky about what they’re fed, and as the owner, your pet deems it your job to figure out their moods and what they want to eat.  Furthermore, keeping your turtle on a plain diet of pellets is not the best idea. Thus, to make your life easier, I’ve compiled a list of foods my turtles love to give you an idea of  what you can feed your pet besides regular pellets.  Why aren't pellets enough for  my Red-Eared Slider ? There are several reasons why giving a completely pellet-based diet isn’t the best option for your pet, and this isn’t limited to red-eared sliders.   While the protein proportions may vary with age, turtles are primarily carnivorous and will require animal-based protein in their diet. Giving a wide variety of foods provides enrichment and stimulation and helps maintain nutri...

While they might have a grumpy and shy demeanour, turtles make great pets for those willing to accept them in all their amphibian glory. They are intelligent, have vast personalities, and are moderately expensive to maintain with competent care.  It’s no hidden secret that a turtle will naturally shy away from any creature other than itself, including those of its own kind.  Which puts many owners in a tight spot and causes them to wonder – How do I get my turtle to trust me? Will it  ever  trust me? Yes, turtles can trust humans; you can achieve that too! I’ve included answers to these questions, ways to gain their confidence, and more below. Food is the Way to the Heart " Giving your pet foods that it prizes as a treat will encourage it to trust you. " It’s common knowledge that every creature on the face of this planet harbors a liking for those   it acknowledges as food providers. Turtles are suckers for all kinds of protein: proof that even...