Hand rearing, also known as neocare, is the process of raising a baby parrot by hand, without the presence of the parent birds. Hand rearing can be a rewarding experience for bird owners, but it requires a significant commitment of time, effort, and resources. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what hand rearing is and what’s required to successfully raise a baby
parrot by hand.
Hand rearing requires a significant commitment of time and effort. Baby parrots that are
hand reared require around-the-clock care, including feeding, cleaning, and socialisation.
This means that you will need to be available to feed your bird every 2-4 hours, including
throughout the night. In addition, you will need to devote time to socialising your bird and
helping them develop important skills, such as perching, preening, and flying.
One of the most important requirements for hand rearing a baby parrot is the right type of
formula. Baby parrots require a specialised formula that contains all the essential nutrients
they need to grow and develop. Most commercial baby bird formulas are suitable for hand
rearing, but it’s important to choose a high-quality formula that contains a balanced mix of
proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as added vitamins and minerals. You will also need
a specialised feeding syringe or spoon to feed your bird the formula.
In addition to formula, you will need to provide your bird with a comfortable and safe
environment. This may include a specialised brooder box or cage that provides the right
temperature and humidity levels for your bird’s age and species. You may also need to
provide additional heating, such as a heat lamp or heated pad, to keep your bird warm.
Socialisation is also an important part of hand rearing a baby parrot. Baby parrots that are
hand reared require regular socialisation with their human caretaker to develop important
social skills and bonds. This may include gentle handling, talking to your bird, and
encouraging them to perch and explore their environment.
In conclusion, hand rearing, also known as neocare, is the process of raising a baby parrot by
hand, without the presence of the parent birds. Hand rearing requires a significant
commitment of time, effort, and resources, including specialised formula, feeding
equipment, and a comfortable and safe environment. With proper care and attention, hand
reared parrots can grow up to be healthy, happy, and well-socialised members of your family.
However, it’s important to carefully consider the commitment involved in hand rearing
before taking on this responsibility.
