Keeping your parrot happy

Parrots are intelligent, social creatures whose emotional needs are just as real and important as a human’s. It is important as a parrot owner or potential owner that you are willing to commit to time with your bird. It may not always be convenient but it is always necessary.

Many people make the mistake of showering their new bird with so much attention that it is not possible for them to keep it up for the life of their bird. The bird does not understand why it is no longer the center of the universe. If the bird “ain’t happy, ain’t no one gonna be happy”.

Parrots generally like to be where things are happening - but use good sense, observe your bird. If you are having a family gathering or party, your bird may be more comfortable in a quieter part of the house for awhile.

Be respectful of your bird. Most birds like to nap in the early afternoon. It is best that if your bird is napping or eating that you wait to pull him/her out of the cage. If you bird is mature and it is breeding season, pay close attention to his/her body language. You may have to wait to handle your bird to prevent a negative encounter.

Change is an important part of life that a healthy bird needs to be able to handle. Change keeps things interesting and more fun. Your bird needs to know how to entertain itself. Your job is to provide the tools, aka toys, and the time for him/her to do this. Even if you are home all day and the bird really is the center of the universe to you, your bird needs to know that it is okay without you for several hours each day. It is a matter of emotional well being and survival for your bird should anything happen to change your availability to your bird.

There are different ways to give attention to your bird. Calling out to your bird occasionally when you are busy with other things is reassuring to your bird. Simple things like “Whatcha doing, I love you” may be what your bird was waiting for. Singing to your bird while doing housework can be fun for both of you especially if you insert your bird’s name into the song.
Are you a student or avid reader? Reading out loud while doing homework or enjoying time with your favorite author can also be entertaining for your bird.

Cuddling with your bird is important but should not be the only hands on your bird receives. Teaching or reinforcing good behavior is important too. Do not forget to praise your bird for his/her successes.

Teaching new tricks or skills builds confidence in your bird and keeps your bird using it’s brain. Remember that your bird has a short attention span. You will have more success if you do not spend too much time on any one lesson. Your bird may become bored or frustrated.

Playing with your bird can also teach your bird. Using a towel to play peek a boo can help a bird that is towel phobic. Just go slow introducing the towel and be sympathetic to your bird’s fear. Rolling your bird over or having your bird lay on it’s back in your hand can build more trust in your relationship. Dancing around the house like a fool with your bird can be fun. Use your imagination. Show your bird your silly side.

Time spent with your bird is never wasted time. Even if you just watch a movie together. Some days you will have more time, energy, or creativity than other days and that is okay. If you are in a bad mood, wait until you are calmer. Do not handle your bird if you have been drinking. Your bird will know when there is something off about you and will probably react negatively. Always end your time with your bird on a positive note.

Having multiple people involved with your bird not only helps avoid behavior issues, like becoming territorial around you, but also enriches your bird’s life. Keep it safe, keep it simple, keep it fun.