How to Keep Your Parrot or Pet Bird Calm on Guy Fawkes Night

Guy Fawkes night is one of the most notable nights of the year across the UK for fireworks displays, which can be quite distressing for many pets – including parrots, budgerigars, cockatoos, and other pet birds. This guide offers practical, vet-approved advice to help you keep your pet bird calm and safe during the noise and lights of bonfire night.

Fireworks and related stimuli can profoundly unsettle pet birds due to their acute hearing and sensitive respiratory systems. There is no guaranteed method to keep birds entirely stress-free, but several thoughtful measures can dramatically reduce their anxiety and protect their wellbeing.

1. Bring Outdoor Birds Inside or to Sheltered Aviary Areas

If you have outdoor birds such as parrots or budgerigars in an aviary, encourage them to move into the sheltered nesting or bedding sections by twilight. This space should be secure, well-insulated, and ventilated to protect them from loud bangs and flashes. Close any gaps or windows to reduce sound and light intrusion but ensure sufficient fresh air flow.

Partially covering aviaries with blankets or thick covers can help muffle noises and flashes but never block fresh air completely. Also, keep an eye out to prevent stray fireworks from falling into or damaging the aviary.

2. Keep All Birds Indoors with Doors and Windows Closed

For birds housed inside the home, ensure all windows and doors remain shut on Guy Fawkes night to minimise noise and, importantly, reduce exposure to harmful firework smoke and sulphur fumes which can irritate the respiratory system of pet birds.

3. Choose a Quiet, Well-Insulated Room for Indoor Birds

Place your bird's cage in a room that is well-insulated and quiet, especially if your bird is accustomed to cage movement and being handled. This helps deaden noise and reduce the impact of sudden sounds or flashes outside.

If your bird is a creature of habit and dislikes cage relocation, keep their cage where they are used to it, as sudden changes can add to their stress during fireworks.

4. Close Curtains Early to Reduce Light and Sound

Closing curtains well before darkness falls can significantly dull the impact of fireworks' bright flashes and some noise. For extra soundproofing, add a thick blanket or additional cover over the curtains — just ensure fresh air circulation is not compromised.

5. Use Calming Music or Background Noise

Many parrots and friendly pet birds enjoy music, which can soothe them and mask external banging noises. Play your bird’s favourite tunes or switch on the television for comforting background sound. White noise machines or calming music designed for pets can also be effective distractions.

6. Cover Cages but Follow Routine Where Possible

Cover your bird’s cage during your usual times to preserve routine; only cover cages earlier if your bird is visibly stressed. Birds thrive on familiar patterns, so maintain regular schedules to avoid confusion while providing additional cover if your bird needs it to feel safer during fireworks.

7. Engage with Your Bird Calmly

Pet birds like parrots and cockatoos often find reassurance in the presence and voices of their trusted owners. Talking gently to your bird or simply chattering quietly can help divert their attention and aid calming, especially when loud noises occur outside.

8. Keep Birds Secure in Their Cage for Safety

While it may be tempting to take your bird out to comfort them during fireworks, keeping them safely inside their cage is best. Birds can panic suddenly and risk injuring themselves or escaping. Stay close by to offer calm reassurance if your bird finds your presence soothing.

9. Consult Your Vet About Calming Aids if Needed

If your bird experiences severe stress, talk to your veterinary surgeon about safe calming products suitable for birds, such as pet-friendly sprays or remedies. Early preparation and tailored advice help ensure your bird's comfort on this challenging night.

By preparing early and creating a calm, controlled indoor environment with sound masking, comfortable spaces, and gentle reassurance, you can help your pet bird cope better with Guy Fawkes night fireworks. Remember, each bird is unique, so observe your pet’s behaviour closely and adjust these recommendations as needed to suit their needs.

For more about finding parrot puppies or budgerigar breeders, explore reputable sellers early ahead of the 2025 bonfire season.