Articles posted by PASA
Met byna vier dekades se praktiese ervaring in avikultuur deel Ben Minnaar sy kennis van kunsmatige uitbroei en die handgrootmaak van papegaaikuikens tydens ’n praktiese Wet Lab by die PASA Expo 2026.
ONTMOET ONS SPREKER: BEN MINNAAR Read More »
Meet Dr Michèle Pfab, Scientific Coordinator for the Scientific Authority at SANBI, and learn more about her important work in biodiversity conservation, sustainable wildlife use, TOPS and international CITES trade.
Meet Dr Michèle Pfab Read More »
Healthy-looking parrots can carry and transmit psittacosis without showing signs of illness. New research highlights why strict quarantine, good hygiene and veterinary guidance remain essential when introducing newly purchased birds.
PASA Avian Research Brief Read More »
What is really driving wildlife towards extinction? We examine the major causes of bird and animal extinction and why effective conservation must address the actual threats.
What Are the Main Causes of Bird and Animal Extinction? Read More »
1. Healthy-looking parrots can carry parrot bornavirus Scientific Reports — published 15 June 2026 Researchers tested 83 captive parrots from 13 species in India. PaBV-4 RNA was detected in 44 birds, including 5 of 26 apparently healthy birds housed with suspected PDD cases. Practical takeaway: Do not rely on appearance when introducing or selling birds.
PASA Avian Research Brief Read More »
As the 2026 breeding season approaches, the Parrot Breeders Association of Southern Africa (PASA) reminds all members of the importance of complying with both South African legislation and international regulations governing the keeping, breeding, and trade of parrots. This notice reinforces the guidance previously issued in PASA Bulletin – 25 September 2024 regarding the sale
NOTICE TO MEMBERS – SALE OF PARROT EGGS & CITES COMPLIANCE Read More »
Foods Never to Feed 🚫 Avocado🚫 Chocolate🚫 Alcohol🚫 Caffeine🚫 Onion🚫 Salty junk food🚫 Sugary snacks🚫 Moldy seed 📌 If in doubt, leave it out. Water = Nutrition Too Fresh clean water daily is critical. Change water: ✔ Every morning✔ Again in hot weather✔ More often with chicks Dirty water = disease risk. Reading Your Bird’s
PASA Parrot Nutrition #7: Foods never to feed, water, reading youre bird’s condition. Read More »
Essential for: ✔ Eggshells✔ Bone strength✔ Muscle function✔ Nerve health Sources: Warning: Too much calcium without balance can also cause problems. 📌 Always balance with proper vitamin D3 and husbandry.
PASA Parrot Nutrition #6: Calcium – The Forgotten Nutrient Read More »
Goal: Grow strong new feathers. Feathers are mostly made of protein, so nutrition matters greatly. Increase: ✅ Protein moderately✅ Amino acids✅ Omega fats✅ Vegetables rich in vitamins Best Foods: Support: ✔ Bathing opportunities✔ Reduced stress✔ Good sleep Avoid: ❌ Overbreeding during heavy molt❌ Poor seed-only diets 📌 Poor feathers often reflect poor diet.
PASA Parrot Nutrition #5: Molting Season Nutrition Read More »
Goal: Support egg laying, incubation, chick feeding, and parent energy. Increase Energy & Protein: ✅ Quality pellets✅ Soaked/sprouted seed✅ Soft food✅ Cooked grains✅ Egg food✅ Fresh vegetables Essential Nutrients: ✔ Calcium✔ Vitamin D3 (if indoors)✔ Amino acids✔ Clean water daily Important: Breeding pairs feeding chicks need far more calories. Watch For: ❌ Empty seed bowls❌
PASA Parrot Nutrition #4: Breeding Season Parrot Nutrition Read More »
Goal: Prepare birds for reproduction naturally. Increase: ✅ Protein slightly✅ Calcium✅ Vitamin A rich foods✅ Fresh greens✅ Sprouted seeds Best Foods: Cooked legumes Sprouted seed Boiled egg (moderate) Corn Carrot Pumpkin Dark greens Supplements: ✔ Calcium source✔ Mineral block✔ Cuttlefish bone Why? Healthy hens produce better eggs and cocks show stronger fertility. 📌 Condition gradually
PASA Parrot Nutrition #3: Pre-Breeding Conditioning (6–8 Weeks Before Pairing) Read More »
Goal: Allow birds to rest, maintain healthy weight, and recover after breeding. Feed Focus: ✅ High quality pellets (base diet)✅ Mixed vegetables daily✅ Limited seed mix✅ Leafy greens✅ Moderate fruit Best Foods: Carrot Pumpkin Sweet potato Broccoli Spinach (small amounts) Bell peppers Apples Pears Reduce: Sunflower-heavy dietsToo many nutsEgg food dailyHigh-fat treats Tip: Birds should
PASA Parrot Nutrition #2: Off Season Nutrition (Maintenance Period) Read More »