Welcome to Wings 'n Things

Robin Shewokis on Pet Life Radio


Join Barbara Heidenreich of Good Bird Inc. and Robin Shewokis of The Leather Elves for this 30 minute look at parrots.  In these bird podcasts, each week Barbara and Robin will address the issues of parrot ownership that they encounter most often in their work with these birds.  Topics range from troublesome behavioral concerns to creative enrichment solutions to conservation initiatives. Through years of working in the field of animal training and enrichment Barbara and Robin have met many fascinating individuals who work with parrots both in captivity and in the wild. 

Tune in to these awesome bird and parrot podcasts to hear interesting guests sharing their avian experiences. Each week features Barbara and Robin’s suggestions for parrot resources available online and in avian specialty shops.  Upcoming parrot events worldwide are listed at the end of each episode. Sharing their knowledge of parrot care is what Barbara and Robin do best.  Tune in to these bird podcasts and increase your understanding of your feathered friends. 

It's the ultimate bird podcasts for bird lovers!

Wings 'n Things Theme Song, "I Love Parrots"
Written and Produced by Roberta Fabiano

Episode 51 -

Coming soon


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Episode 50 - Preview of Our New Bird Show, "Bird's Eye View"

If you’re a fan of “Wings ‘n Things” you’re also going to love our brand new bird and parrot show, “Bird’s Eye View” on Pet Life Radio!  Avian veterinarians Dr. Laurie Hess and Dr. Michelle Ravich discuss more exciting bird and parrot topics in their new show!  Listen to our preview, and check out Bird’s Eye View!


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Episode 49 - Baby Birds

Baby birds are discussed in this Podcast as Robin meets with Josee Bermingham of Hagan Avicultural Research Institute.  Robin talks with Josee about their weaning techniques and the unique way they socialize their birds at HARI. 


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Episode 48 - Designing the Perfect Aviary

This week Robin is joined by Mark Moore, co-owner of Hill Country Aviaries in Austin, Texas.  Mark shares some of his techniques and tips for designing, building and outfitting a great outdoor aviary.  Mark is chair of the publications committee for the American Federation of Aviculture and is instrumental in publishing the AFA quarterly magazine The Watchbird.


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Episode 47 - All About Aviculture

Interview with an aviculturist.  This week Robin is joined by Rick Jordan, noted aviculturist and co-owner of Hill Country Aviaries in Austin, Texas.  Robin and Rick discuss aviculture and some of the issues facing both the breeder and companion parrot communities.


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Episode 46 - Loro Parque Fundacion, Tenerife, Spain

After a summer of craziness and non-stop travel/work Robin had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. David Waugh from Loro Parque Fundacion in Tenerife, Spain.Join Robin and Dr. Waugh as they chat about the exciting conservation work being done at this amazing facility.


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Episode 45 - The Odd Pet Vet at the New England Wildlife Center

This week Robin is at the New England Wildlife Center in Weymouth, MA. She is speaking with the director, Dr. Gregory Mertz, DVM. Dr. Mertz is also known as The Odd Pet Vet. In his practice at the wildlife center Dr. Mertz sees many companion parrots in addition to other exotic pets. During their discussion Robin and Dr. Mertz discuss common issues in parrots and parrot care. Some suggestions for preventative care are given.


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Episode 44 - Finding More Information on Parrots

Don’t know where to begin to learn more about your parrot? Robin Shewokis and Barbara Heidenreich share some of their favorite resources for parrot information. Having spent years doing their own research for information they provide a long list of trusted books, DVD’s, magazines, blogs, chat groups, internet resources, seminars and more for parrot enthusiasts.


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Episode 43 - Party at Parrot Festival and Adventures in Animal Training

Barbara Heidenreich and Robin Shewokis share highlights of some recent travels. Robin was busy socializing with the cream of the crop of the parrot world at Parrot Festival. Barbara played with gorillas, elephants, penguins, porcupines and parrots while consulting on animal training for a zoo. Get an insiders look at two very different working winter vacations for these animal enthusiasts.


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Episode 42 - The Future of the Companion Parrot Community

In this week’s podcast, Robin chats with Kodi Pinnell. Kodi hails from Lindale, Texas and is a great role model for any young people who are considering parrot ownership. Kodi talks about his passion for parrots and the people who have helped him learn to be an exceptional parrot owner.


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Episode 41 - Parrot Myths and Misconceptions

Do parrots exhibit height dominance? Are scarlet macaws truly nippy? Is it safe to give parrots the cardboard from paper towel rolls? These questions and more are discussed by Robin Shewokis and Barbara Heidenreich as they explore various myths and misconceptions about parrots.


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Episode 40 - Prevent Your Parrot From Being a Perch Potato

Got a parrot that does everything in his power to avoid exercise? Then this podcast is for you. This week Barbara Heidenreich and Robin Shewokis discuss ways to get your perch potato moving. They also discuss some controversial methods parrot owners have been advised to use and the more trust building alternatives.


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Episode 39 - Get Your Parrot Foraging

Foraging is a hot topic in the companion parrot community. This week Barbara Heidenreich and Robin Shewokis get creative with foraging ideas. They also share how to train your parrot to interact with foraging toys and why it is beneficial to get your parrot foraging.


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Episode 38 - Alex and Me…A Chat With Dr. Irene Pepperberg

In this week’s episode Robin sits down with noted scientist and author, Dr. Irene Pepperberg. Dr. Pepperberg shares anecdotes about her work and her time spent with Alex the African Grey.


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Episode 37 - Act Naturally

Getting your parrot to present natural behavior in your home can include encouraging foraging behaviors, teaching your parrots to use their unique adaptations to expend energy, and capturing natural behaviors and putting them on cue. In this week's episode Barbara Heidenreich and Robin Shewokis shares ideas and suggestions for getting your parrot to act naturally.


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Episode 36 - Battling Proventricular Dilitation Disease (PDD) in Parrots

Dr. Sharman Hoppes of Schubot Exotic Bird Health Center at Texas A & M University shares the exciting advances being made in Proventricular Dilitation Disease (PDD) research. This deadly disease has challenged the parrot community for years. Fortunately some recent discoveries are giving researchers hope that a definitive diagnostic tool will soon be available as well as optimism for the development of a vaccine.


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Episode 35 - Studying Wild Parrots in Peru with Dr Donald Brightsmith

This week Barbara Heidenreich interviews field biologist Dr. Donald Brightsmith of Schubot Exotic Bird Health Center at Texas A & M University. Dr Brightsmith shares his experience studying wild parrots in Peru. His research has provided new insights into clay lick use, diet and nutrition and distances parrots travel in the wild.


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Episode 34 - A Parrot for Life

This week Barbara Heidenreich interviews Rebecca O’ Connor, author of “A Parrot for Life.” An accomplished writer and animal trainer, Rebecca shares stories about flying falcons, working with parrots and training cheetahs, as well as information on her nine books.


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Episode 33 - Enrichment On A Shoestring

In this week’s episode, Robin talks with Philadelphia Zoo keeper and bird trainer, Catherine Vine. They discuss how to provide enrichment on a budget. Catherine also introduces us to one of her favorite projects, The Feather Distribution Project.


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Episode 32 - Bird Boarding

Finding someone qualified to care for your beloved parrot when you are out of town can be a challenge. Robin interviews Karen Anderson of Avian Suites, a professional bird boarding facility. Karen shares her advice on how to find a facility or person to care for your parrot and what you can do to make your birds boarding experience as positive as possible.


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Episode 31 - Training And Enrichment Made Easy

Training and enrichment can be and should be easy! Robin and Barbara explore ways to keep your training and enrichment program thriving even if you have little time, little finances and lots of birds.


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Episode 30 - Bringing Home Your Baby Parrot

Barbara and Robin discuss some tips to help you get off to a good start with your baby parrot. Those uncoordinated, yet curious babies have different enrichment needs from your adult parrot. They also present some excellent training opportunities due to an important sensitive period of development. Prevention of behavior problems is also explored, such as biting a bit too hard during play and exploration.


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Episode 29 - Exploring Different Types of Training and Enrichment

This week Barbara and Robin discuss the many ways to keep your training and enrichment programs stimulating. Not only are there are a number of different senses to enrich, there are countless types of behaviors parrot caregivers can train. This episode is loaded with tips and ideas to ensure your parrot has a very rich and interesting life.


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Episode 28 - Meet Sid Price of Avian Ambassadors

Sid Price is a professional bird trainer, President Elect of the International Association of Avian Trainers and Educators and a regular contributor to online training discussions in the companion parrot community. He and Barbara chat about some of the hot topics in parrot training.


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Episode 27 - Let’s Talk Wild Amazons with Michael Schindlinger

In this week’s episode Robin interviews bioacoustic researcher, Michael Schindlinger. Michael is probably best known for his field work with wild Amazons in the creation of the film Stalking the Wild Amazons. Robin and Michael discuss his findings and how they relate to caring for your companion parrot. Michael also shares an exciting ecotourism project that is helping parrots in the wild.


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Episode 26 - Australian Aviculture and the Next Generation

Vice President of the Parrot Society of Australia, Shane Hancock gives insights into the differences between aviculture in the United States and Australia. He also shares his efforts to get kids excited about birds via the very innovative “Fledglings” program.


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Episode 25 - Conservation of Spix Macaws through Training

Australian bird trainer Nicholas Bishop shares his love of birds and his ground breaking adventure training the highly endangered Spix Macaw for a medical procedure at Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation.


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Episode 24 - Finding Reinforcers & Creative Forms of Enrichment

So much to talk about…so little time! In this week’s episode Barbara and Robin discuss reinforcers for training and offer numerous suggestions for creating a vast menu of options for your parrot.


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Episode 23 - Einstein

Meet Einstein! A very articulate parrot who lives in Texas. To clarify….. this is not the Einstein featured on Animal Planet’s Pet Star, but she can give that one a run for her money. This chatty parrot runs through her vocabulary, including phrases such as “What does E=?” “Look at the grackle” and “Who let the dogs out? Who?” Barbara also interviews Einstein’s caregivers Marcia and Jeff to find out how they came to have such a special parrot in their home.


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Episode 22 - Feather Destructive Behavior... Possible Causes and Cures

In this week’s episode Barbara and Robin tackle a widespread issue in the companion parrot community, Feather Destructive Behavior. They review some of the many causes and make suggestions for alleviating this very common behavior.


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Episode 21 - Screaming for Attention

In this week’s episode Barbara and Robin discuss the often lamented challenge of the screaming parrot. Training and enrichment strategies that address this behavior are reviewed.


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Episode 20 - A Visit to the Avian Veterinarian

In this week's episode Barbara and Robin discuss choosing an avian vet and ways to build a relationship with that avian professional that will most benefit you and your companion bird. Some training techniques for preparing for the visit are also discussed.


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Episode 19 - Meet the New Hosts

In this week's episode the new hosts of Wings and Things Barbara Heidenreich of Good Bird Inc., and Robin Shewokis of The Leather Elves give an introduction of themselves and share some of their passion for training and enrichment.


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Episode 18 - From Macaws to Membership!

Learn about macaws, the gentle giants of the avian world. These colorful denizens of South American can make wonderful, affectionate pets if you have the space and the right living arrangements! Apartment dwellers, ask your neighbors first!

Have you ever thought about joining or starting a bird club? These helpful avian organizations have evolved from breeders sittin' around talking to real service organizations! A bird club can be a valuable resource for the pet bird owner! Fly through the legal issues, state your mission and start a club or join one!


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Episode 17 - Mad About Macaws!

Join Wings 'n Things for a big Q&A session! We'll discuss air filters, fat Amazon parrots, birds and children and the pros and cons of cage litter.

Blue and gold macaws are gentle giants. We'll discuss some amazing facts about these big beauties!


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Episode 16 - Living Areas & Quaker Parakeets

Feeling cramped? Perhaps you can stretch your living area by keeping your birds in a finished basement or remodeled garage. Check out these helpful hints!

Quaker parakeets are popular pets and they also survive quite nicely in feral colonies from Maine to Florida. Learn about these sassy little survivors! Are you ready for a career as a bird sitter? Here's how!


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Episode 15 - Bird-Watching Vacations

Ready to fly south? We've got some budget hints for that great exotic bird watching vacation you've always wanted to take. Get the most for your dollar when traveling to bird shows or the Outback of Australia!

Eclectus parrots are elegant and beautiful. Learn about their habits and qualities that make them good pets. Traveling with your bird? Share our Top Ten Travel Tips right here!


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Episode 14 - Bird Bucks

A no-nonsense approach to making the most of your avian dollars! Are you spending too much for bird food, accessories and other things? Maximize yur spending power without sacrificing quality for your feathered friends! Join us for a review of conure species and personalities. These little clowns of the avian world are sure to captivate...which one is right for you? Gimme shelter! Learn how a New York bird club is coping with the problem of unwanted pet birds!


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Episode 13 - Household Safety Audit

A "Household Safety Audit" takes you on a tour of accidents waiting to happen around your home! If there's mischief to be found, your bird will find it! Learn how to reduce risk of avian injuries and how important it is to have a plan in case of fire or natural disaster. Guest Roberta Fabiano, accompanied by her mitred conure, Ratchet, joins the show for a rousing round of 'Featherbrains', a quiz game all about birds! See how many of the multiple choice questions you can answer! Then join us for a spotlight on cockatoos!


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Episode 12 - Gimme Shelter... Cages and Accessories to Rock Your Bird's World

We'll explore the basic necessities you need for your bird's home tweet home, from cages to dishes and play stands. During this segment we'll even get specific about bar spacing and cage size for different species. Caiques are like little clowns in bird suits! Learn about this lively, sassy species from South America in our Species Spotlight segment.


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Episode 11 - Your Bird's Not Bad...He's Doing What Comes Naturally!

Understanding why your bird chews, screams, bites and makes a mess will help you devise clever ways of coping with unwanted behavior and adjusting your bird's environment to make your birdkeeping experience more pleasant! Enjoy an introduction to African grey parrots, renowned for talking and mimicking almost any sound you can imagine! Did you know the 'bare' part of the African grey's face is actually covered with very fine, hair-like feathers? We'll also take ten steps toward bird-proofing your home..with special mention about bird-proofing your family and friends!!


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Episode 10 - Cage Rage and Recovering Escaped Birds

Does your bird hate its cage or suffer from night frights? The solution may be right in front of you! Think like a bird and get quick results! Every bird owner's nightmare: Your bird flies away and you're in a panic! Believe it or not, there are things you can do to increase the odds of getting your bird back! Learn some of the ways that you can 'escape-proof' your bird too!


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Episode 9 - Holiday Hazards and Supplementary Heat and Lighting

Deck the Halls With Boughs of Polly! Have a fun and bird-safe Holiday season! Learn what hazards to avoid to keep your feathered friend safe during this festive time of year!

Cracker, it's cold outside! Learn how to keep your bird warm and toasty during the chilly winter months. Do you get depressed because it gets dark so early? Your bird suffers effects from shortened hours of daylight too, but you can help with supplementary, full-spectrum lighting.


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Episode 8 - Your Questions Answered

Have you ever wondered about the pros and cons of a planted aviary? Despaired at the amount of poop produced by your parrot? Considered traveling abroad or by air with your pet bird? Roberta Fabiano joins the show for a lively discussion of all three topics!


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Episode 7 - Seven Days in Parrotdise!

Put on your explorer's helmet and join me for an adventure in 'parrotdise'! Alexander the Great's troops brought parrots to Europe from India in 327BC. Later, Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus were captivated by the parrots they saw during their journeys. Now it's our turn to discover the joys, responsibilities and revelations of parrot parenthood! Folllow me as I navigate through Seven Days in Parrotdise! Later, we'll answer questions about using natural branches in your bird's cage and the dangers of non-stick cookware. It's a jungle in here!


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Episode 6 - All Amazons, All the Time!

Imagine spending your life with a quartet of spirited Amazon parrots! If one is this much fun, will two or more be even more of a party? Explore the history, care and characteristics of these personality-packed green guys! They're not for everyone, but if you're up for the challenge, Amazon parrots can be lifelong companions!


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Episode 5 - Can We Talk!

A lively Q&A session featuring some thought provoking dilemmas faced by companion bird owners. Is your spouse endangering your bird with over-zealous cleaning? Is there any safe-non sitck cookware? What's the best way to keep your bird away from ceiling fans? Tune in for the answers to these and other questions.

The second segment of this parrot podcast of Wings 'n Things is all about teaching your bird to talk! Try these easy and effective methods to encourage your feathered friend to speak your language...and learn to translate what he's saying in his!


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Episode 4 - Bird-Proofing Your Home

Susan talks about keeping your pet birds safe and sound in your house. Roberta Fabiano joins Susan to discuss "silly parrot questions".


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Episode 3 - Crazy 'Bout Conures?

Meet Roberta Fabiano and mitred conure, 'Ratchet'! An overview of conure habitats, behavior and preferences. Yes, birds certainly do have strong preferences, and conures are no exception! These lively little clowns can be noisy, busy and very lovable. Roberta shares her experiences with the 'Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill' along with a very special song she wrote about three of the birds in Mark Bittner's book of the same title.


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Episode 2 - Bird Care for Birdbrains!

The least you need to know when you decide to share your home with a pet bird...it's not a hobby; it's a lifestyle! You'll learn what things around the house may be dangerous to your bird, the pros and cons of wing clipping, and valuable shortcuts to your new career as a bird servant!


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Episode 1 - Welcome to Wings 'n Things

Susan Chamberlain welcomes everyone to her new show, Wings 'n Things on PetLifeRadio.com, and discusses the topics she will be covering all about pet birds in future bird podcast episodes.


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