10 Things to Do the Day You Bring Your Bird Home

Set up the cage first. Perches, food, water, and a few toys should be ready before your bird ever arrives.
Give them quiet time to adjust. A new home is a lot to take in — let your bird settle before trying to interact much.
Keep the cage covered part of the day. A covered, dim space helps a stressed bird feel secure.
Avoid handling right away. Let your bird get used to your voice and presence before attempting to hold them.
Match their old diet at first. Ask what they were eating before and keep it consistent to start.
Place the cage thoughtfully. Away from drafts, kitchen fumes, and directly loud areas of the house.
Talk to them often, calmly. Birds bond through voice and routine before they bond through touch.
Watch for eating and droppings. Confirm normal eating and bathroom habits in the first day or two.
Keep the household calm. Loud TV, parties, or lots of new faces can wait a few days.
Find an avian vet nearby. Not every vet treats birds — research one before you need one.

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