Question:
How do I stop my cockatiel from biting me or anyone that comes near him? He is eight months old and beautiful.
Mary Nelson
Answer:
Biting birds are certainly not unusual. They usually do it if they feel a little frightened or out of control. They also do it for play reasons, so it depends on how hard he’s biting and what the rest of his body language says as to why he’s chomping on your fingers! What you must do though, is teach him that this is unacceptable behaviour. Handle him gently and take things slowly. If he’s frightened, don’t drag him out of the cage; just offer a finger to him. When he has had a sniff and he’s happy, try stroking his head. Offer a food treat — save his favourite thing for these therapy sessions so it’s pleasurable for him.
It might take a week or two, but if you take things slowly and he doesn’t feel threatened he will warm to the idea of being handled. If he nips, calmly put him away — soon he’ll make the connection between good behaviour and pats and food, with bad behaviour meaning back in the cage and no nice nibbles!
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