Bringing a new bird into your home is an exciting experience, filled with the potential for a deep and rewarding bond. However, like any new pet, parrots come with their own unique set of behaviors that can sometimes be puzzling or challenging for owners. This article delves into common parrot behaviors, such as biting and chewing, and offers insights into fostering a strong connection with your feathered companion.
One of the most common concerns for new parrot owners is biting. Young birds often go through a “beaking” stage, which is akin to teething in mammals. During this period, they are exploring the strength and function of their beaks. This is not a deliberate act of aggression, but rather a learning process. Gently but firmly saying something like “Be gentle” can help them understand boundaries. Birds also use their beaks for balance, gripping perches or branches before stepping up, and may inadvertently grab a finger too hard. Introducing “stick training,” where the bird learns to step onto a perch rather than a finger, can be beneficial. Sometimes, a bird that seems timid initially may exhibit more challenging behaviors once it settles into its new environment.
Addressing Chewing Habits
Parrots are natural chewers, and it’s essential to provide them with appropriate outlets for this behavior. Offering a variety of toys can redirect their attention from your personal belongings, such as phones or laptops, to more suitable items. Ensuring a constant supply of chewable toys is key to a harmonious living situation.
The Nature of Parrot Bonding
It’s natural for parrots to form strong bonds with a particular person. This is simply part of their inherent nature. While steps can be taken to manage hormonal behavior, a bird may still exhibit a preference for one individual. If a bird seems overly bonded to one person, interactions in a different room away from their favored individual can sometimes help.
Managing Nesting Behavior and Freedom
If your parrot enjoys hiding in a fern, it might indicate that it has a bit too much unsupervised freedom. While some plants, like Boston Ferns, are considered safe for pet birds, allowing them to hide can inadvertently encourage nesting behaviors. If your bird roams freely, even under supervision, this can sometimes contribute to biting incidents. It’s often recommended to have your bird held by a person or provide a separate play stand for out-of-cage time. Allowing the bird to come and go from its cage at will can diminish its dependence on you.
Diet and Hormonal Balance
For a healthy bird on a balanced diet that includes fresh foods, monitoring calorie intake is generally unnecessary. Calorie monitoring becomes crucial when dealing with a chronically hormonal bird that repeatedly lays eggs. In such cases, various interventions may be necessary, including careful management of their diet.
Daylight Hours and Hormonal Cycles
While birds typically adjust to their owner’s schedule, hormonal imbalances can necessitate adjustments. Limiting daylight hours to 8-10 hours may be beneficial for a bird experiencing hormonal issues.
Natural Grooming Behaviors
Parrots may groom your beard, hair, or body hair as a natural social behavior, much like they would groom each other. If your bird becomes hormonal as it matures, it might be necessary to discourage this behavior, especially during warmer months.
For further guidance on training and diet, consider these resources:
- Caring For Your Bird
- Bird Food Guide
Understanding and working with your parrot’s natural behaviors is key to building a strong and trusting relationship. By providing appropriate outlets for their instincts, managing their environment, and ensuring a balanced diet, you can help your feathered friend thrive.
