Forgetting to cover a bird’s cage at night can have several possible consequences depending on the type of bird, the environment, and other factors. Some key things that can happen include:
The bird may get cold
Birds need to be kept warm while sleeping, as their metabolisms slow down and they are unable to keep themselves sufficiently warm. Uncovered cages can allow cold drafts and drops in temperature that can chill a sleeping bird. Small birds like finches, parakeets, and cockatiels are especially susceptible to the cold.
It may disturb the bird’s sleep
Birds require 10-12 hours of undisturbed sleep per night. Uncovered cages allow more light and noise to enter, which can prevent the bird from getting truly deep, restful sleep. Interrupted sleep can lead to general irritability and erratic behavior in birds.
Increased stress
Birds feel more secure and comfortable when properly covered for the night. An uncovered cage leaves them exposed and vulnerable, inducing stress and fear. This chronic stress takes a toll on the bird’s health and well-being over time.
Disruption of circadian rhythms
Like humans, birds have ingrained circadian cycles that cue their periods of sleep and wakefulness. Light and noise entering an uncovered cage can disrupt these natural rhythms and prevent the release of melatonin and other hormones that regulate the sleep cycle.
Health Risks
In addition to general discomfort and stress, leaving a birdcage uncovered at night poses some specific health risks to birds, including:
Respiratory infections
Drafts and rapid temperature changes make birds more prone to respiratory conditions like pneumonia and bronchitis. Their bare, exposed skin also contributes to dryness and chilling.
Hypothermia
Small birds have high metabolisms and can succumb quickly to dangerously low body temperatures if unable to stay warm while sleeping. Sustained hypothermia suppresses their immune system and can be fatal.
Arthritis and muscle problems
Chronic cold stress causes painful inflammation in birds’ joints and connective tissue, leading to general stiffness, difficulty perching/gripping, and potential long-term mobility issues.
Feather picking
The stress of inadequate overnight cover sometimes causes birds to excessively pick, pluck, and chew their own feathers and skin. This can lead to bleeding, infections, and reduced ability to thermoregulate.
Respiratory infections
Drafts and rapid temperature changes make birds more prone to respiratory conditions like pneumonia and bronchitis. Their bare, exposed skin also contributes to dryness and chilling.
Environmental Hazards
Beyond direct health consequences, leaving a cage uncovered also increases a bird’s exposure to environmental hazards in the surrounding space, such as:
Dust and dander
Birds are highly sensitive to particulates and allergens which can enter uncovered cages and be inhaled while a bird sleeps. This can exacerbate respiratory diseases.
Chemicals and fumes
Paint, smoke, and other fumes linger in the air. An uncovered cage provides little barrier against these irritants entering a bird’s fragile respiratory system.
Pests
Birds are vulnerable to ants, mites, and other crawling intruders brought in by pets or from outdoors. Covered cages provide an important physical barrier against such home invaders.
Other pets
Cats or other family pets may be drawn to the sight, sound, or scent of an exposed bird. Dogs in particular often lunge and bark at birds, creating immense stress and risk of cage trauma.
Drafts and moisture
Uncovered cages offer little protection against drafts from doors, windows, or vents that can chill a bird. They also expose the bird to potential rain, sprinklers, or humidity that enters the room.
Behavioral Changes
The persistent stress and poor sleep caused by leaving a bird’s cage uncovered often leads to noticeable changes in their behavior and demeanor:
Increased vocalizations
Disrupted sleep cycles lead to more frequent nighttime squawking, chirping and calling. The bird is distressed and trying to re-establish a sense of security.
Feather plucking
The bird may start aggressively plucking its own feathers and down due to anxiety and discomfort. This damaging behavior is hard to correct once established.
Loss of appetite
Stressed birds often eat less or seem disinterested in food. Malnutrition further reduces their resilience and immunity.
Aggression and biting
Irritable, overtired birds may snap or bite handlers when taken out of the cage. They lose trust and socialization.
Decline in activity
Deprived of rest, birds reduce their playing, flying, singing and other healthy activities. They withdraw and fluff up their feathers.
Solutions
To avoid these adverse effects, bird owners should follow these best practices:
Invest in a cage cover
Buy a fitted, opaque cover that fully envelops and insulates the cage overnight. Avoid makeshift covers that can come loose.
Locate cage appropriately
Position the cage away from drafts, vents, exterior walls, and doors. Place it in a quiet, low-traffic area of the home.
Stick to a bedtime routine
Put the cover on at the same time nightly, avoiding noise, light, and activity nearby. This helps establish the bird’s circadian rhythm.
Use night lights
Strategically place low-level night lights around the room to avoid jarring light changes when removing the cover.
Insulate the room
During cold months, use curtains, central heating and space heaters to keep the bird’s environment comfortably warm overnight.
Get blackout lining
To filter ambient light, install blackout shades or line the cage with dark cloth before adding the cover.
The Bird Cage Cover Checklist
Here is a handy checklist bird owners can follow each evening to ensure their bird’s cage is properly covered for the night:
| Task | Completed? |
|---|---|
| Locate cage in quiet, draft-free area | Yes/No |
| Turn off TVs and radios near cage | Yes/No |
| Close windows, vents, doors nearby | Yes/No |
| Make sure cage locks are latched | Yes/No |
| Place opaque cover fully over cage | Yes/No |
| Turn on night lights around room | Yes/No |
| Insulate room from drafts | Yes/No |
| Use white noise if needed | Yes/No |
Following this checklist each night helps set up your bird for a calmer, healthier night’s sleep!
Conclusion
Birds are highly vulnerable when sleeping, so proper cage coverage at night is absolutely essential. Uncovered cages allow cold air, noise, light, dust, pests and other hazards to reach the birds, disrupting their circadian rhythms and triggering illness, stress, and behavioral issues. Investing in an opaque, well-secured cover, positioning the cage appropriately, and sticking to a nightly routine ensures your feathered friends the sheltered, tranquil environment they require for deep, restorative sleep. With extra care and planning, you can keep your avian companions both comfortable and healthy around the clock!
