Budgie question

[Tish]

I will be getting two budgies soon and have a question that I haven't seen asked before. Because of bird's complex respiratory system would it be okay to use alcohol-based makers, for example, Copic markers around them? The brand I have is low odor and labeled as non-toxic but I still often open up a window for extra ventilation. If I did open a window around the birds I would, of course, use a screen. Would it still be okay to use the markers?

 

[marrmarr]

Definitely would be better to use the markers away from the birds and let the room air out.
They’ll be alright as long as you don’t put it in their face and you don’t spend lots of time using the markers around them. If you use them for extended periods of time then I suggest you take your birds to another room.

 

[bug_n_flock]

I would vote no. While probably not "toxic fumes", alcohol vapors are highly irritating even to humans' much more robust respiratory systems. In the lab we use alcohols under a fume hood if above a certain concentration (or if we just don't want to deal with the vapors). I know these are pens and not straight up fluids, but even still. That's just my opinion tho and I don't even use hand sanitizer in the same room as my birds so I may be overly cautious.

From phone

 

[GaleriaGila]

I always like to say (about myself)... BETTER PARANOID THAN SORRY!
Death by toxin/particulate inhalation is a horrible thing.
Good for you for being careful and vigilant!

 

[Owlet]

Personally I have no problem with copic markers (specifically copic brand, I can't vouch for any others) and fumes. I barely smell anything, the only time there's a slight fume is when they are new. Still, always better safe than sorry.