January is Adopt-a-Rescued-Bird Month and each year thousands of birds are relinquished to shelters when their owners decide they no longer want them.

"People know that dogs and cats end up in shelters and in rescue," said Kim Saunders, vice-president of shelter outreach for Petfinder.com. "Adopt-a-Rescued-Bird Month was initiated to draw attention to the fact that birds, too, are available for adoption. On any given day on Petfinder.com, there are over 1,400 birds needing homes."

Saunders suggested that before people take the step toward bird guardianship, they should educate themselves about the kind of bird they hope to adopt.

"Most birds live eight years or longer," Saunders said. "And a parrot's lifespan can rival that of a human. That is a long-term commitment. Each breed has its own specific characteristics and habits."

Birds need proper nutrition, room to exercise and clean living conditions in order to be healthy and happy.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals experts recommend several species for first-time companion bird caretakers. They have different personalities, so you'll have to do a little research to find the bird that best fits your family's lifestyle. Visit www.aspca.org to learn more about what types of birds would best suit your home and family.

Always buy the largest, most well-constructed cage you can afford. No matter the species, your bird will need a cage that's large enough to stretch its wings and fly short distances.

Cage location is everything. Place it in a warm, bright part of the house, close to where the action is, but away from drafts and direct sunlight and off the floor. Avoid setting up the cage in or near the kitchen. Birds are extremely sensitive to fumes, and those from self-cleaning ovens and Teflon-coated cookware can be fatal.

To keep your bird in good condition, an annual visit to the veterinarian is imperative. Weight loss or gain, often an indicator of illness, will be checked, and any necessary tests can help the vet monitor your pet's health.

Please don't wait to schedule an appointment if you think your pet is sick. A bird that is not feeling well may fluff out its feathers or sit quietly on the floor of its cage with its eyes closed. Other symptoms that something's not right with your pet include a change in the consistency, frequency or colour of droppings, sneezing, coughing, blocked nostrils, laboured breathing and a crusty beak or eyes.

Birds for adoption can be accessed through www.petfinder.com or www.avianrescue.org.

Toronto Animal Services East, 821 Progress Ave., currently has two budgies and two lovebirds that need homes. Both pairs need to be adopted together. Shelter officials ask that people who are interested in adopting the birds bring a cage with them. For details, call 416-338-7539.