Unexpected escapes by our beloved feathered companions can be a heart-stopping experience, leaving us with mere seconds to ensure their safety. My own lovebird, Apache, a bird of considerable strength and ingenuity, has managed to find her way out of her enclosure on several occasions. Through these experiences, I’ve learned valuable lessons about using the right cage setup and maintaining a secure environment to prevent such frightening incidents.
Apache’s Escape Artistry: How It Happened
Initially, Apache’s cage setup was a contributing factor to her escapes. The cage that came with her was quite small, so I placed a larger one adjacent to it, hoping to give her more space. However, this arrangement allowed the cages to shift, creating gaps she could exploit. While I eventually secured them with carabiners, she managed to fly out multiple times before I implemented this solution.
Furthermore, Apache discovered she could escape by dislodging her bath. She proved stronger than my attempts to secure it, forcing me to purchase a different bath and keep its door firmly closed. Even with these measures, she managed to open her main cage door – a testament to her intelligence and determination. A well-placed carabiner resolved this issue, though it wasn’t a perfect long-term solution. When selecting a cage for your bird, it’s crucial to ensure they cannot manipulate the latches or create openings, for instance, by lifting heavy items like a water bath. Birds possess surprising strength, capable of dislodging seemingly secure accessories.
The Terrifying Window Incident
One of Apache’s escapes stands out as particularly harrowing. It occurred on a warm summer day when both the window and the back door were open to allow fresh air circulation. I was working at my computer, and my boyfriend was gaming nearby. Suddenly, I heard Apache’s distinct chirping and saw her flying freely within the living room.
In a moment of panic, I leaped from my chair and rushed towards the window, yelling for my boyfriend to close the door. As he reacted, I moved to limit Apache’s flight path by closing the hallway door. Thankfully, we managed to keep her safely inside. Had she flown through the open window, the chances of seeing her again would have been slim, as she was not yet trained to return on command. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance when windows or doors are open, especially if your bird is an escape artist. Consistent training for recall is also highly recommended.
Current Strategies for a Secure Haven
Understanding the reasons behind Apache’s escapes led me to seek a more secure cage. I needed one with doors that she couldn’t manipulate. This meant ensuring she couldn’t reach the locking mechanisms or create openings by dislodging items from their positions. The perfect cage proved difficult to find, especially during pandemic-related supply shortages.
Eventually, I acquired a suitable cage that keeps Apache safe behind robust locks she cannot open. She now only leaves her enclosure during supervised, safe periods. Even with this secure setup, controlled escapes can occur, primarily during cage cleaning.
When it’s time to clean her main cage, I temporarily house Apache in her smaller, familiar transport cage. I place the two cages adjacent to each other and encourage her to move between them using millet as a lure. While this method has largely been successful, Apache recently discovered a minuscule gap where the cages didn’t quite meet, allowing her to slip through. Fortunately, I am always prepared for such eventualities. All windows and doors are immediately closed, and I calmly work to coax her back into either her large or small cage. This process can sometimes take a little while, but her safety remains the top priority.
What to Do When Your Lovebird Escapes Indoors
In the event your lovebird escapes within your home, your immediate actions are critical. First, close all exterior doors and windows to prevent further escape. Then, restrict their movement by closing interior doors to hallways and other rooms. If the bird is in a room with a kitchen, turn off any cooking appliances, extinguish open flames, and blow out candles to eliminate immediate hazards.
Maintaining a calm demeanor is essential, though it may be challenging after the initial shock. Once the immediate threats and escape routes are secured, focus on safely retrieving your bird. If your lovebird manages to fly outside, attempt to lure it back using its favorite food while calling its name. Be patient, as this process may require multiple attempts. Never chase your bird, as this will only frighten it and encourage it to fly further away. Allow it the space to return to you. The most effective strategy for such situations is to train your bird for free flight, and you may find local bird trainers who can assist with this.
