Learning is part of caring. We have gathered organizations, educational programs, and books that can help caregivers make more informed choices. Resources range from approachable introductions to technical professional references.

Organizations and Educational Websites

Behavior Works — Dr. Susan G. Friedman

A leading resource for understanding behavior through applied behavior analysis. Explore articles and educational materials on reinforcement, antecedents, choice, enrichment, and humane behavior change. Best for: caregivers and professionals who want a deeper understanding of why behavior happens.

Animal Training 101 — Dr. Jenifer Zeligs

Cross-species training education that connects learning science with practical skills. The Animal Training 101 program includes online instruction on communication, motivation, and problem-solving; some courses and books are paid. Best for: people ready to develop structured, cooperative training skills.

Avian Welfare Coalition

An organization focused on the welfare of captive birds and responsible treatment of avian species. Explore its advocacy and educational information about the challenges birds face in human care. Best for: broader welfare perspectives and responsible guardianship.

Association of Avian Veterinarians

A professional association offering bird-owner education and tools for locating avian veterinary care. Best for: preventive health, veterinary guidance, and finding a qualified bird veterinarian.

World Parrot Trust

A conservation and welfare organization sharing information on parrots, their needs, and threats in the wild, alongside care and educational resources. Best for: understanding parrots in the context of conservation and welfare.

Recommended Books

Books can provide a foundation for further study. The two specialist manuals below are substantial references; the other two offer approachable practical introductions.

Manual of Parrot Behavior

Andrew U. Luescher, editor. A detailed professional reference on normal and problematic parrot behavior, welfare, and the interaction between health, environment, and learning. Level: advanced caregiver or professional.

BSAVA Manual of Psittacine Birds

Nigel Harcourt-Brown and John Chitty, editors (2nd edition). A technical veterinary reference covering psittacine medicine and clinical care. Useful for understanding health concerns, but not a substitute for an avian veterinarian. Some clinical guidance may have changed since publication. Level: advanced or veterinary.

Don’t Shoot the Dog!

Karen Pryor. A readable introduction to reinforcement and behavior change, using examples across species. An accessible starting point for understanding humane training. Level: beginner to intermediate.

Good Bird! A Guide to Solving Behavior Problems in Companion Parrots

Barbara Heidenreich. Practical positive-reinforcement approaches to common companion-parrot behavior challenges. Level: beginner to intermediate.

A Note on Using These Resources

These are independent organizations and authors. Listing a resource does not mean Chloe Sanctuary endorses every statement, product, or practice it contains. Evaluate recommendations in light of the individual bird, current evidence, and the least intrusive, most effective approach. For illness, injury, or sudden behavior changes, consult an avian veterinarian. Some linked resources are paid, and external websites may change.