Parrots are considered to be one of the most intelligent types of bird and it is their innate characteristics that have made them popular to keep as pets since the Roman times, although parrot-keeping reached its peak only in the last century. Their popularity can be attributed to their colourful plumage, their intelligence and flair for mimicry, their playful behaviour and ability to bond with human beings. Naturally they require a considerable amount of dedicated care, attention and psychological stimulation in order to lead happy, balanced and contented lives. It is therefore essential that parrot owners are aware of their pet's needs, day-to-day requirements and their responsibilities as owners.
Alan Jones has had a lifelong interest in birds. After qualifying as a Veterinary Surgeon from the Royal Veterinary College London in 1970, he established his own practice in West Sussex in 1985 and has worked ever since with avian patients. He joined the International Association of Avian Veterinarians in 1987 and has been a regular atendee and presenter at AAV Conferences in Europe and the USA. He is currently Vice-Chairman of the Parrot Society UK. Alan has contributed to many bird-keeping periodicals, and is co-author of the veterinary textbook Avian Medicine II.
"Keeping Parrots covers every aspect of parrot keeping in a well set-out, easy-to-read format, and is as much a pictorial guide as it is a written reference work. Many of us have a collection of parrot books, but things have changed radically over the last few years and this publication is full of new, up-to-date information, innovative techniques and current ideas."
- Parrots
"Complete with hundreds of beautiful high-quality photographs, Keeping Parrots is truly a must-have for anyone interested in these wonderful creatures."
- Pet Focus
"What Alan has is something that cannot be bought for any price, though it can be shared – 30 years of experience as a practising vet. Now he shares with us some of the insights he has gained from his profession, and throughout the book you'll sense his evident affection for our magnificent birds."
- Cage & Aviary Birds
"This advisory work is refreshingly honest and humorously written. Over 208 pages in 11 chapters the author has summarised 30 years of experience as a parrot-keeper and veterinarian in Great Britain. Case studies are highlighted in coloured sections within the chapters. The illustrations are clear and kept simple so that the lay person can follow them easily. The comprehensive pictoreal material has been collected throughout the years and is of very high quality."
- Papageien
"High quality books relating to parrots are extremely rare and this excellent work by Alan Jones is definitely in the top category. The publication is packed with excellent advice for both pet parrot owners and those hobbyist breeders that gain so much from their interest. He has used his brilliant command of English to make the text clear, concise and to the point, even where the subject is rather complicated. This makes for a very readable book which is well structured. There are high quality photographs taken mainly by the writer on every page and also well drawn sketches when this medium is preferable. Every parrot enthusiast would gain from obtaining a personal copy of this work."
- Parrot Society UK magazine