Seasonal Bird Care: Preparing for Every Season

Adapting to the Seasons

Canadian bird owners face extreme temperature swings throughout the year. Understanding how seasons affect your bird helps you provide consistent, comfortable care.

Winter

Keep your bird away from drafty windows and exterior walls. Maintain indoor humidity between 40–60% — forced-air heating dries the air, which can irritate respiratory systems and dry out feathers. A humidifier near the cage helps. Ensure 10–12 hours of darkness for sleep.

Spring

Longer daylight hours can trigger hormonal behaviour: nesting, aggression, and egg-laying. Limit daylight exposure to 12 hours maximum. Remove any nesting materials and avoid petting your bird below the neck, which stimulates hormones.

Summer

Birds can overheat in direct sunlight. Never place a cage in direct sun without shade. Offer extra baths and keep fresh water available. If you bring your bird outside, use a secure carrier — outdoor time exposes them to predators, toxins, and escape risk.

Fall

Moulting often peaks in fall as birds prepare new feathers for winter. Increase protein and calcium in the diet. Shorter days help signal the end of hormonal season.

Year-Round

Consistent sleep schedules, stable temperatures between 18–26°C, and good air quality are essential regardless of season.