When parrots live in the wild they can be observed stripping bark off trees, flinging twigs, climbing vines and communicating with fellow parrots. However, when kept as pets they are kept in cages that not only limit their flying but also restrict their methods of enjoyment.

Parrots are often bought with the intention of teaching them to speak, sing or dance but the rest of their natural behaviours are often curbed.

The most beneficial activity for a bird unsurprisingly is to be able to stretch their wings and fly. An aviary is perfect for this - whether it's long term or just used as an exercise room - you'll soon see the gesture appreciated by your pet. If an aviary is unsuitable - either because of costs or because of a lack of space - then birds also love to fly indoors. The first thing to do is to ensure that all doors and windows are closed and that everyone else in the house knows what you're doing. It's also important to cover up windows otherwise the bird - seeing the outside world - may try to fly straight through. Something, that if not fatal, will be likely to need a visit to the vet and a call to your pet insurance supplier.

This extra space to fly around - and do what birds naturally do - will have a huge positive effect on your parrot and he'll soon seem more jolly and active.

While this is a good start, it's obvious you can't keep the parrot flying free in your house long term. In his cage, however, he will also need some sort of entertainment - particularly to replicate the natural behaviours such as foraging and nest building. From small toys such as rattles to bigger ones like swings, there are plenty of options available to keep your parrot happy. Hiding food inside straw parcels can also entertain him as he has to forage to get his food.

To get the most out of your parrot you should train him to speak. As one of the few animals to mimic human speech, it's best to try to teach your pet what you want him to say. They can of course pickup words themselves, but as the jokes about the sailor's parrot go, this can often lead to social faux pas.

The more your parrot enjoys his environment and his surroundings, the more likely he is to be happy and in turn be a more enjoyable pet to have around. Although it may take a little extra financial investment as well as putting more of your own time into training and playing with your pet, the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

Oliver Gaywood is a dedicated parrot lover and writes for a digital marketing agency. This article is not intended as either advice or as a promotion but should be considered professional content.