There are a variety of plants which are poisonous to birds, but there are many safe plants, too. So if you are a dedicated house plant enthusiast, you can have your plants and birds, too.

How toxic a plant is for birds depends upon:

1. The plant itself
2. The amount ingested relative to the size of the bird
3. The species of the bird

For example, a cockatoo that nibbles a few bites of philodendron may experience a mild degree of toxicity, whereas, the same amount or less may be lethal for a canary.

Although there are significant differences among species as to reaction and sensitivity to various plants, most sources agree that those plants listed in Table 1 are toxic to any bird. This list may appear long but is by no means all-inclusive. There are many more toxic plants than safe plants, so stick to the "safe" list in Table 2 for plants you will keep in the bird's environment.

The most commonly observed sign of poisonous plant ingestion in birds is some form of gastric or intestinal upset – e.g., vomiting and/or diarrhea. The treatment for plant poisonings is generally symptomatic.

If you suspect your bird has ingested a toxic plant, call your veterinarian or the poison control center immediately. It may be a good idea to print this article and keep it in a handy place near the telephone so you do not have to go searching and waste time in a stressful situation.

ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center

• 1-888-4ANI-HELP or 1-888-426-4435 ($65.00 per case.) The charge is billed to caller's credit card only.

Although we are talking about plants here, it is worthy of mentioning that birds are acutely sensitive to fumes from solvents and Teflon. Do not use any Teflon coated cooking utensils, ironing board covers, or other items anywhere near a bird.