Are Mirror Bad For Parrots?
We have all heard at one point or another that mirrors are good for smaller birds like budgies, and parakeets but in the last couple years we have heard and different story surrounding mirrors and parrots. Are mirrors bad for budgies?
Why mirrors are good!
When I had my first budgie I remember reading from multiple sources that mirrors were really good for budgies since they are super animated animals. They also encouraged that you have a mirror for your budgie to prevent boredom since they are such social creatures and enjoy the company of other budgies.
Is this still true? Are mirrors a substitution for the companionship of a budgie buddy? Are mirrors even safe to have in your budgie's cage?
Do mirrors replace the need for a companion for your budgie/parrot?
In short... NO. Nothing will replace the need and benefit of having 2+ budgies. They are social creatures talking to a mirror that does not reciprocate the same emotion and excitement as your budgie/parakeet/parrot.
"but I was told they are not smart enough to tell the difference between their reflection and another bird" while this is true we should also keep in mind that they cannot interact with a mirror the same way as they can with another bird.
My two budgies LOVE to go for flights around the room together and talk to each other while flying, your bird simply cannot do this with a mirror.
Read more about why budgies should at least be kept in pairs here - https://optimalavian.com/can-you-have-a-budgie-parakeet-alone/
Why mirrors are bad!
I think most of us can say we have seen people on social media get harassed over giving their bird a mirror toy.
Is this right? no, the last thing i want to do is give people knowledge that they them feel entitled to attack someone less knowledgeable. Please be respectful if you feel the need to educate someone on harmful practices they are doing.
Earlier we talked about how birds can not tell the difference between a mirror and another bird. Imagine how frustrating it would be talking to someone and having them just copy you, they never added anything to the conversation. You are not able to play with your friend etc. It gets very frustrating for them and can cause aggressive behaviours which no one wants in their home.
your bird can become obsessed with the mirror and refuse to leave the mirror even for food.
If your bird decides this bird in the reflection is their mate this can cause your bird to become extremely hormonal which is not good for their physical or mental health.