Free Bird

if you feel guilty keeping your bird cooped up inside all day, why not give your pet a chance to explore the outside world with you?

the pak-o-bird transporter cage, available for $150 to $350 at uptown birds (522 amsterdam ave., 212-877-2473, www.uptownbirds.com), is one way to cart them around the city. this seemingly normal-looking mesh backpack actually features a wooden perch inside, providing birds with a breezy and portable method of transport. finally, your bird will get a break from its decorative bentley mahogany birdcage (also at uptown birds, $1,500), featuring elegant molding and curved claw feet.

once outside, the aviator harness and leash (uptown birds, $32) is one way to let your pet really explore the outdoors. although lorelei tibbetts, a nurse at the center for avian and exotic medicine, cautions that a harness may not be the right choice for every bird.

"they are a lot safer than the old method, the tether, which is not a great idea," tibbetts said. "the problem is that birds hate them."

however, dominick costa, manager of birdcamp bird boarding facility and store, says some animals can adjust.

"i use them religiously," costa said. "the first time around they are a bit wary about it, but i've taken the largest, meanest birds out on a leash."

costa advises to owners to make sure the harness is securely fastened. if not, you might be frantically chasing it down with the north american bird net, available for $6.99 at petco (147 e. 86th st., 212-831-8001, www.petco.com).

the harness may go over better if you provide some quality entertainment. the portable "feathered fun desktop activity center" (petco, $32.99) includes mirrors, bells, ropes and swiveling multi-colored balls. hopefully it will distract your pet from a less desirable activity: relieving himself on your head as revenge for putting him in a leash.