No comments about Alex & Me: A 30-Year Adventure.

5 comments about Australian Parakeet Handbook, The New (New Pet Handbooks).

1. I recently got my first Red Rump parakeet. Ordered this book to get good basic information on care and such. Felt it was a good basis all around book for all Australian parakeets. Went into many types of the Australian keets.



2. The only reason I gave this book 3 stars is because I simply looked through it briefly. I ordered it for a friend of mine who has a Pale-headed Rosella. I assume she finds it helpful. Sorry I couldn't be more specific!



3. THE NEW AUSTRALIAN PARAKEET HANDBOOK by Matthew Vriends, is a relatively technical volume covering "everything about purchase, housing, care, nutrition, behavior, breeding and disease' and a special chapter on `understanding the Australian Parakeet'
   
   Ever wonder where that blue or yellow budgie you own fits into the larger scheme of the Parakeet world? This book won't tell you. NAPH describes the whereabouts of selected parakeets native to Australia, not `Melopsittacus undulatus. You won't find `Budgies' in the index either, and the `Grass Parakeet is not the Budgie according to this book.
   
   Vriends book covers the so-called `broad tailed parakeets' ornamental birds you might encounter on a field trip and want to breed yourself, could you catch a pair. Vriends Includes descriptions of Nymphicus hollandicus known to most of us as the`Cockatiel' and he also writes about lesser known species such as Rosellas, Ring-necks and Red-rumped Parakeets, as well as the Yellow-vented Blue Bonnet parakeet which must be a sight to see in the wild. Vriends book is really a breeding and "birding" book comparable to those published by the Smithsonian on captive breeding programs for `threatened' birds held in captivity and/or finding them in their threatened habitats, and would make a good companion on your next trip through Australia to search the bush and back roads. In fact, one great shot shows an old guy with camper in the background, feeding a wild flock of Australian King Parrots with bright red heads (could this be the author?). The book includes many photos with poor captions and plenty of black and white drawings which I find offputting when trying to determine which species might be lurking on the fence post yonder.



4. This was one of the very few books that covered to any degree the rare species of bird that I recently purchased.

   I have also seen this title in a highly respected local bird farm library.

   Highly recommended for not extensive information on each breed, but short summaries on about every breed of Australian parakeet you need to know about.




5. Dr. Vriends is one of the formost authorities on birds, and this book is an excellent example of his knowledge in unusual species. It covers all Australian parakeets that are usually kept, and is currently the most comprehensive guide to these interesting beauties. Highly recommend this book for all who own or are considering owning Australian broad and long tailed parakeets.

5 comments about The New Duck Handbook: Purchase, Care and Feeding, Health-Breeding Undstaning Ducks Behavior (Pet Owner's Handbooks).

1. This book would be very helpful to they inexperienced duck owner. However, I can't see it taking anyone beyond the basics, and if you own ducks at some point you will have to travel down that road. This book does give a lot of good information. It has everything from basic anatomy of the duck, to diet, housing and environmental concerns, duck behavior, raising ducks, a list on ornamental and domestic breeds, and most importantly it gives you the basics in an easy to understand format.
   
   Having said all this this book has some weaknesses. It does not have a detailed breeds list (only a couple pages). This book does cover a lot of information in under a hundred pages, but it doesn't cover any one thing really well. I prefer Dave Holderreads book "Storey's Guide To Raising Ducks." I feel it is a superior book for both novices and experienced poultry personal. So why did I give this book 4 stars? Simply, this book does everything it can in under a hundred pages, it just doesn't do enough in my opinion. It would be a good book to start with, but you will eventually have to buy or get more information somewhere else.



2. Owning a pet duck is a lot different than owning a dog or cat!
   This book will help you know how to house, feed and care for that cute little Easter duckling that quickly turns into a big white bundle of feathers.



3. I love to go feed the ducks at the local pond. I now know what types come to the pond and why they act the way they do. This book is interesting enough for an adult, but easy enough for a child to understand. This is a WONDERFUL book. Very FUN to read.



4. This book was very helpful.It answered all my questions.It is also a very good investment because you will always have questions and it always has answers!



5. Ornamental & Domestic Ducks Everything about Housing, Care, Feeding, Diseases & breeding

2 comments about The Complete Book of Austrailian Finches.

1. Lots of good pictures, great introduction to many of the Australian finches and their compability. Care, breeding, health, etc.



2. The book is a good guide, available with suitable photographs.
   However , a detailed feature on goldian finches , especially a chapter devoted exclusively to the breeding of gouldian finches would have been better. The book has enabled me to give the right light and shade conditions plus food supplements to finches. So far I have successfuly bred society finches and have even placed goldian eggs in society finches' nest.Results still awaited. But contrary to the fact that gouldians feed their first clutch , I wish to pinpoint that though a chick did hatch successfully from the initial clutch , the parent birds made no effort to look after it. This is in total contradiction to the details given in the book.

3 comments about Bird Signs: Guidance and Wisdom from Our Feathered Friends (Book & Cards).

1. I highly recommend this book and card set. G.G. Carbone did an excellent job of describing each one of these different birds. The representation of them was phenomenal. I am very metaphysical, and I feel these were fabulous. I also thought they gave good insight about each bird species from a Wild standpoint too( Out in Nature). I was very pleased with this Set of cards. I have worked with animals very closely all of my life, and I share my life with a Macaw parrot.( Her Card hit right on with the Parrot.) She described what each bird pretty much has shown me in my lifetime. I am so happy that I have these in my collection. Thanks G.G. I will cherish this Deck forever.
   
   The artwork is also Esquisite. Well worth the purchase for the artwork also. I especially love the Peacock. Great CARDS!
   
   I give these cards a great recommendation. I Love them!



2. BIRD SIGNS: GUIDANCE & WISDOM FROM OUR FEATHERED FRIENDS offers a 52-card deck and book written by G.G. Carbone and illustrated by Mary Ruzicka to explore birds and their connections to divinity. These divination cards can be used individually or in spreads - and each profiles a specific bird or aspect of bird life, with an accompanying book providing a focus on bird relations to human characteristics. It's an excellent pick for any new age collection or card reader.



3. "Birds appear in our lives for a reason. Sometimes these winged creatures are here for a brief time and sometimes for an extended stay. We may not always know why a bird appears to us at a particular moment, but with this book and card deck, you will become more aware of the guidance and wisdom that our feathered friends convey to us every day." - From the Bird Signs companion book
   
   As one who has received many oracular insights from feathered friends over the years, I was thrilled to see a new deck dedicated solely to birds. From cardinal to penguin, lark to owl, Bird Signs covers 52 different birds (and thus has 52 cards). Attractively packaged in a colorful, sturdy box that seals with a magnetic flap, the Bird Signs kit also includes a lovely 133-page glossy companion book featuring full-color illustrations.
   
   When I received Bird Signs, published by New World Library, I was truly impressed with the quality of the packaging/storage box, the guidebook, and the cards themselves. In my mind, no one rivals baba studio/Magic Realist Press (Victorian Flower Oracle, Fairytale Tarot, The Tarot of Prague Kit, etc.) when it comes to deck and book sets. However, I have to say that Bird Signs rivals the quality of those kits!
   
   With her favorite mediums being pen and ink with colored pencils, illustrator Mary Ruzicka infuses each bird with gentle lines, flowing curves, and realistic hues. From the peaceful dove to the beautiful swan, the happy bluebird to the adventurous roadrunner, Ms. Ruzicka delightfully captures the unique character of each bird--inviting humans to study them, learn from them, and contemplate their messages.
   
   Written by G.G. Carbone, the Bird Signs companion book explains the framework of the deck, which constitutes 45 bird cards and 7 feathered friends cards. Bedecked with rainbow-colored ribbons and relevant motifs, the special feathered friend cards represent a specific intention, chakra, chakra color, and physical area of the body. They can be used alone for inspiration or with the rest of the deck for additional illumination. For example, the yellow Egg - Birth card addresses new births of all kinds and the Solar Plexus Chakra. The blue Song - Voice card deals with communication and the Throat Chakra.
   
   Upright meanings for all cards are provided, as well as reversed meanings. Ms. Carbone gives a brief bio of each bird, as well as Bird Wisdom (interpretation), Broken Wing (reversed meaning), Bird Vision (how you can "see" from a bird's particular perspective) , and a piece of bird lore (not necessarily about the bird). Keywords, healing colors, and a message is also provided.
   
   Printed on a smooth matte finish, the Bird Signs cards measure approximately 5 ¼ x 3 ½ inches. Flexible and easy to shuffle, the card backings depict a simple, yet attractive, double feather motif with greens, blues, and purples that are fully reversible.
   
   Some of the birds and their wisdom found in Bird Signs include:
   
   * Waxwing - Curiosity
   * Hummingbird - Energy
   * Robin - Joy
   * Flamingo - Balance
   * Woodpecker - Hope
   * Jay - Communication
   * Duck - Decision
   * Hawk - Observation
   * Roadrunner - Adventure
   * Gull - Laughter
   * Raven - Illusion
   * Parrot - Creativity
   * Oriole - Compassion
   * Stork - Reliability
   * Pheasant - Opportunity
   * Heron - Patience
   * Eagle - Freedom
   * Penguin - Purpose
   * Chickadee - Playfulness
   
   Despite the utter gorgeousness of the box, cards, and companion book, I admit that I'm a bit disappointed in this oracle. I did a few one-card readings the last few days, and each time, the message was totally off base. For example, I drew the Rooster yesterday, which is about 180 from how I am, where I am, and what I know to be at this time in my life. For example, if I'm in sync with this card, I'm an early riser, need courage to face the day, and have difficulty getting out of bed.
   
   Nothing could be further from the truth! I'm a night owl (it's wired in my DNA), get out of bed easily, and joyfully look forward to each day that is filled with promise and abundant blessings. (No, not being a Pollyanna here--it's really how I am!) I did another one-card reading, with equally irrelevant results. However, I DID do a 3-card Past/Present/Future spread (called the Wingspan Spread in the Bird Signs companion book), and drew three of the special feathered friends cards. This reading was highly accurate. Go figure!
   
   As I read through the Bird Signs book, I felt that some of the interpretations were too simplistic and, well, *practical* (e.g. "Go on a picnic" and "try saltwater fishing"). Perhaps I'm just used to, or prefer, more psychologically oriented interpretations. Granted, Ms. Carbone provides quite a bit of information--but it seems a bit superficial at times. Maybe I was expecting interpretations and facts along the lines of Ted Andrews' Animal Speak. (If you're used to that book, you may be a bit disappointed with this deck if you're expecting more depth.)
   
   However, I think Bird Signs could certainly be used in accordance with a book like Animal Speak, which provides depth and breadth to animal divination. Also, the bird cards would be great meditation tools for those with avian affinity, as well as a starting point for looking up birds who fly into your life.
   
   (To see 10 images from this deck, visit the Reviews--Decks section at JanetBoyer.com)
   
   Janet Boyer, author of The Back in Time Tarot Book: Picture the Past, Experience the Cards, Understand the Present (coming Fall 2008 from Hampton Roads Publishing)

3 comments about The Zebra Finch: An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet.

1. We got this book to help us with our finches and it's a good book with nice illustrations too. It's not real technical but it is adequate for a first book on finches and as it turned out the only book we needed.



2. Excellent book in great condition ordered on Thursday recieved it the following Monday.



3. This book is extrememly helpful, with great insight into the basics of Zebra care. I purchased most books available on Zebra finches, and this one by far stood out on top. I would strongly recommend any beginner purchase this book.

2 comments about Caiques (Complete Pet Owner's Manual).

1. Ok, so I have been thinking of getting a bird for quite some time, and have been reviewing all kinds of books.
   
   This book- the Complete Pet Owners Manual of Caiques, is absolutely wonderful. It goes into great detail about those wonderful little birds, everything from their mannerisms, to their diet, and their disposition.
   
   Not only do I recommend the book, but also a Caique!
   
   Enjoy!



2. In general, this is a great book for anyone looking to own a caique. The information is up-to-date and easy to understand. However, there are some things that were missed (and I would love to see this info in a 2nd edition someday).
   
   First, under the section "Special Caique Behavior", the author forgot "hopping". This is a unique behavior that is often mentioned in almost every caique article out there.
   
   Second, I would love to have read about the possibilities of owning two caiques. Do you have to get one of each sex? Or can two males and/or two females co-exist?
   
   Third, I would like to have read about the different developmental stages they go through as they mature (dominance issues, hormonal issues, etc.) and at what age to expect them. Also, at what point do they lose their dark eyes and yellow-ish chest to reveal their adult coloration? This would help a buyer determine if they were really get a young bird.
   
   Fourth, a section on breeding would be greatly appreciated, and needed, as there are very few resources for caique breeders to refer to. Photos of babies' physical developments, weight charts, feeding schedules, etc. would be quite helpful. I find caique babies more difficult in some ways to hand-raise than other species, and this info can really be of use to breeders who are new to this species.
   
   Again, this book does have a lot to offer, but I do see room for some improvement. I would be very interested in purchasing a revised edition if it were to address my above-mentioned suggestions.

4 comments about Feeding Your Pet Bird (Pet Reference Books).

1. Oh what is a parrot owner to do? One book says holly berries are unsafe while another says they are not. While I am not about to feed my parrots Ilex in any form, I have noted that the Mockingbirds and others fight over the holly berries out back, and the pokeberry bushes across the street are stripped clean (and their offspring come up in my yard). Petra Burgmann subscribes to idea that holly plants are unsafe and that birds will eat unsafe things. (How do they survive in the wild?).

   I've lived with companion birds for about nine months, and thankfully not killed any of them in spite of the fact Burgman and other authors I've read offer conflicting advice. I guess the rule of thumb is if in doubt, don't do it. I thought I was doing a pretty good job of balancing the nutritional needs of my birds, but on reading Burgmann's book I find there is more I can do. The baby Senegal and Lutino Cockatiel parrots who live with me seem to be more willing to try a variety of foods than do the pair of five-year old Cockatiels I obtained from the shelter last January who are interested in little other than seed. (Burgmann has much to say about seed!)

   Following Burgman's advice, I am persisting in morning and afternoon offerings of non-seed items to the reluctant duo. This morning, the female "shelter" Cockatiel (Keena) actually dragged a piece of broccoli from her food dish and pecked at it a few times. This is progress as she generally shuns anything that smacks of plant life with the exception of Cilantro. According to Burgman, she and the other parrots need to eat broccoli or something with Vitamin A on a regular basis.

   Burgman points out that birds do not have a very well developed sense of smell, so yesterday I tried a Jalapeño pepper with Bertie the Senegal, and he attacked it madly. Of course the dog was shocked when he tossed the leftovers on the floor for her. This morning, the crew had Pomegranate seeds in honor of Persephone who disappears at this time of the year. Burgmann says birds like texture in their food, so the Pomegranate seeds are a good bet though she does not list them as a nutritious item in her food list. (At least they don't appear on the toxic list!)

   Burgman's book includes a somewhat technical discussion of nutrition and bird physiology, but she writes in a clear and concise style that makes it relatively painless to read. I took the book to work and read it while I ate my own lunch. She explains bird food processing relative to human food processing so I could imagine what was happening to my lunch. I had no idea the liver performed so many critical tasks.

   Although she provides a good bit of text about bird droppings, I found no pictures. A recent article in BIRD TALK demonstrated droppings can indicated problems. Keena's droppings are colored green (and not from the food she ate), which may indicate fatty liver disease...what birds get if they eat only seed. Uh oh, she just pecked at the broccoli.




2. Need some creative ideas to get your psittacines on a healthy diet? This book will give you the information to help you plan a more beneficial diet for your feathered loved ones.

   I would have liked to have gotten more information on presentation; as we know, food is not just sustenance for parrots, it's entertainment as well. Still, this book was invaluable in understanding the intricacies of developing meals which optimize nutritional value.




3. This book is great for learning about nutrition, as well as a quick reference. Whether learning about avian nutrition in general or just needing to apply particular supplementation to the avian diet; it's appropriate in every sense. Moreover this book reflects on Human nutrition too.



4. A MUST for those unsure of the best avian diet, or those with finicky eaters. The section on quantity of vitamins etc per item of food was invaluable in creating a balanced diet for my birds, although I did have to look on the Internet for the ideal quantities for a companion bird. Even better, it has a whole section on how to transfer your bird to a new diet without stress. It's so good I carry it around in my handbag for reference!

5 comments about Amazing Birds: A Treasury of Facts and Trivia about the Avian World.

1. This is an informative and beautiful book, full of fascinating facts about birds and so visually appealing that it is appropriate for a coffee table. Clearly, the goal is to be accessible without sacrificing good science. I find myself going back to it every time I see a bird doing something interesting in my yard.



2. I found the book to be fasinating and very informative. I find myself referring to "Amazing Birds" when I see a bird I do not recognize or when I am adding another bird feeder or bird house to my property. Did you know that bird houses should face a certain direction? The placement of the colorful pictures throughout this book is unique. Keep the book nearby as you will refer to it often.



3. I have always been a big fan of Barron's books (publishers of the popular Eyewitness series) and Amazing Birds does not disappoint! The colorful, clear photographs and drawings are a big part of the book's appeal and the fun, interesting factoids have you learning something new on every page. Dr. Lederer has come up with a truly unique format for sharing his interest and fascination with the avian world with everyone, child to adult. This book is the perfect gift for any bird or nature lover, even those who may already have a library of birding books.



4. I am truly impressed with the wealth of information given in the book.The photos are captivating and the format is perfect for all bird enthusiasts-from novice to expert.
   I myself have purchased over 6 books to give as gifts to my friends.We all,at some point,take time to wonder about the wild life in our own backyard.This book is a handy,fun and fact filled reference that I know they will enjoy ! Bonnie from Illinois



5. The all new book amazing birds is wonderful for young bird lovers. I am 8
   years old and I love to bring it around so I can read a book if I am bored. It has got so much good and facinating information you won't want to stop reading it. I love it and I look at it every day. Amazing Birds is THE BEST!

5 comments about The Essential Parakeet (The Essential Guides).

1. While I appreciate the psychological advice on just how to break the news of a dead parakeet to a family member, I really required more practical information - like what temperature is best for a healthy bird... or say... should I get a cuddle bone? The book does mention to keep your bird's cage out of direct sunlight (wouldn't the bird enjoy a little sun in the winter?) and to keep him out of drafts (in the summer wouldn't a nice breeze be appreciated?) I felt the book needed to concentrate more on actual facts instead of generalities & add more photos diagramming wing clipping & nail trimming.



2. 
   Very nice book. It is pretty thorough and has excellent advice for choosing a healthy happy pet and the correct cage and accessories you will need.



3. Although I had done a lot of research on the internet before purchasing my parakeet...I prefer to say adopt, actually...this book gave me so much more information! It told me what kind of parakeets you shouldn't get--the ones that hang back in the cage, make watery poops, and dash away from your hand. I got one that came up to me and cheeped. You should get this book for it is chock-full of information, but also try tons of other books and do research on the web. After all, you DO want to be the greatest pet owner for your parakeet, right? I suggest you take the little "quiz" in the front of the book to see if you're ready for a parakeet before taking further actions.



4. THE ESSENTIAL PARAKEET looks very much like an earlier book about Budgies by Julia Rach. Many of the photos are identical (Renee Stockdale). The publisher is the same publisher. The difference seems to be the book jacket and the word Parakeet instead of Budgie.
   
   This Parakeet book includes much of the same material on cage specifications, diet, and other considerations concerning the health and maintenance of Budgies, found in the earlier book by Rach. So what is the difference between a Parakeet and a Budgie? According to the editor, Americans call Budgies "Parakeets." "Not all Parakeets are Budgies", says the editor, Budgies are a specific species with a Latin name `Melopsittacus undulatus' or the "song-parrot with wavy lines." Sometimes these little birds are called "grass parakeets" in their native Australia. I don't think the book is a very helpful source of information about why Parakeets are different from Budgies. Maybe their is no difference. Maybe a Budgie by any other name is still a swell bird. Get Rach's book and you won't need this book.



5. a good book for people who are just starting out with parakeets full of wonderfull Info & has great pictures
   good price too