Artificial lighting.

[suncon97]

I see lots of people getting artificial lighting for their birds. I was wondering if it was necessary or if my bird was getting enough sunlight. She is near two windows and a door that has an oval glass window in it. The room is always bright during the day. Is artificial lighting necessary in this case?If so what do you guys recommend?

 

[Remy]

If it's through glass (unless it's special glass) the bird is not getting the full spectrum of the sun. Some light bulbs are made to include the some of the UV spectrum, which is important for birds for vitamin D, and because they can see it!

 

[suncon97]

Thank you. It's just regular glass windows not any special type. What light would you recommend?

 

[Rio Mom]

This is the one I use, I really like it. Featherbrite Captial Universal Cagetop Light - FULL SPECTRUM LIGHTING by MY SAFE BIRD STORE

 

[roxynoodle]

My BCC developed a calcium deficiency because she didn't have the lighting to help her process Vitamin D. Once I got the lighting, she returned to vibrant, good health. They really like it, too, and will sun bathe under it.

I'm using the Featherbrite bulbs, but put them in clip on lamps. That way they can move in and out of the light as they please. Just make sure the bird can't get to the cord of whatever light you use.

She was in a sunny window as well, but apparently modern windows block 90% of the UV rays. I had also stopped taking the birds outside when West Nile showed up in our area.

So I would say yes, they really do need it, and it seems to make them happy.

 

[ann]

i have finches and i give them calcium with vitamin D sprinkled on their food, its called "Browns Cuttlebone calcium powder" it contains "vitamin D3, calcium, mixed fruit, spirulina"
if you want to try i heres a link
Brown's Cuttlebone Calcium Powder at PETCO
good luck