Companion birds including budgerigars, cockatiels, canaries, and finches have welfare needs that are frequently unmet. Social needs, mental stimulation, and appropriate diets are commonly neglected.
Small companion birds often receive less attention to welfare than dogs and cats despite having equally complex needs. Budgerigars kept alone without mirrors or social contact develop depression and stereotypic behaviour. Seed-only diets cause malnutrition - most species require vegetables, pellets, and limited fruit. Cages that prevent flight cause muscle atrophy and obesity. Many birds live for 10-20 years in conditions that fail to meet their social, dietary, and exercise needs. Birds are intelligent, social animals whose welfare needs are as real as those of any other vertebrate.