International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
DV Patel, CM Bhadesiya, JS Patel, LM Sorathiya, AI Dadawala, YJ Chaudhari, AK Prajapati, VA Patel, HD Asari, GM Chaudhari, SR Lende and MB Rajput

abstract
Agricultural and animal husbandry extension has played a significant role in sustainable development and improved livelihoods of rural people in India and many other countries. Extension activities in these sectors connect science and community to facilitate information exchange and innovations. Such activities are regularly carried out in scientific manner for livestock animal owners; however, species other than livestock animals such as birds, pet reptiles, dogs, cats etc. are also important to their owners. Their health status and impact on public health depend on basic husbandry and healthcare practices adopted by owners or caretakers. Pet birds kept in rural and urban areas are subject to thorough investigations by researchers which is possible by conducting field level surveys and extension activities. So far, there is a paucity in available published literature on basic care and management of many pet birds in different states of India. Cockatiel is one such exotic pet bird commonly kept in rural and urban households in different states. The present investigation was planned to observe current trends in basic husbandry practices adopted by different owners and sellers of Cockatiels in different areas of Gujarat. A total of 124 Cockatiels including 48 kept by 07 different sellers and 76 kept by 14 different owners were screened during the period of study. A proforma was developed to record different management practices by directly interviewing the owners and sellers. The findings of the study were correlated with possible impacts on health status of Cockatiels. The observations recorded in the present study will provide strong baseline data on existing management practices and create awareness among owners, sellers and budding veterinarians to manage many managemental health issues in Cockatiels.