Building trust with a pet bird takes time, patience, and consistency. Here are some tips for gaining your bird’s trust:
Let your bird get used to you
When you first bring home your bird, allow it to adjust to its new environment for several days before trying to handle it. Place the bird’s cage in a quiet room away from other pets, children, and noise. Sit near the cage and talk softly to your bird so it gets used to your presence and voice. Avoid making sudden movements or putting your hand in the cage during this adjustment period.
Move slowly when interacting with your bird
Birds are prey animals, so their instincts tell them to be wary of quick movements that may indicate danger. When opening the cage or reaching into it, move slowly and calmly. This gives the bird time to see that you don’t pose a threat. Sudden movements will startle your bird and damage the trust between you.
Offer tasty treats
All birds love treats! Offer your bird small pieces of healthy foods it enjoys, like millet spray, chopped fruits/veggies, or nut pieces. Always give treats gently by hand, not by forcing your bird to step onto your finger or hand. After a few days, your bird will start to associate you with yummy treats and look forward to your visits.
Let your bird come to you
Don’t grab at your bird or force it to step onto your hand/finger in the early stages of taming. This frightens the bird and damages trust. Instead, move slowly and place your hand/finger near the bird. Talk gently and wait to see if the bird voluntarily steps onto you to get a treat. If not, try again another time. With patience, your bird will learn your hand is safe.
Start handling training
Once your bird is comfortable taking treats from your hand, you can start actively handling it. Offer a treat and gently stroke the bird’s chest or head while it eats. Gradually work up to briefly holding/lifting the bird. Keep handling sessions very short (just a few minutes) to avoid stressing your bird. Praise and reward your bird during and after handling.
Watch body language
Pay attention to your bird’s reaction during handling. Signs of fear include fluffed feathers, leaning away, big/round eyes, and vocalizations. If your bird seems scared, stop what you’re doing and try an easier step. This teaches your bird that you will listen to its cues.
Consider the bird’s personality
Some birds are naturally more gregarious, while others tend to be shy and skittish. An extroverted bird may warm up to you quickly, while a fearful bird may take much longer. Work at your bird’s own pace and don’t force interactions until it is comfortable. Pay attention to your specific bird’s personality.
Be patient!
Gaining a bird’s trust takes a great deal of time and patience. Some birds may take weeks or even months to become comfortable being handled. Avoid feelings of disappointment or frustration by setting small, achievable goals and celebrating tiny steps forward. With regular, positive interactions, your bird will eventually come to see you as a friend.
Provide a safe environment
Make sure your bird’s living space feels secure. Select a sturdy cage large enough for exercise, and properly bird-proof any rooms your bird will spend time in. Supervise children and other pets so your bird doesn’t get frightened. By ensuring your bird feels safe in its home, you help build up feelings of security and trust towards you as the caretaker.
Spend time near the cage
Sit near your bird’s cage and talk, read, or work on a quiet activity. Getting used to your calm presence in its territory helps your bird feel at ease with you. Avoid staring directly at your bird, as this can seem threatening. Instead, go about your business while sneakily watching your bird relax.
Train using positive reinforcement
Use reward-based training to teach your bird fun tricks and build your bond. Give treats and praise whenever your bird demonstrates a desired behavior, rather than scolding for unwanted behaviors. This helps your bird view you as a source of good things, increasing its trust in you.
Avoid grabbing your bird
It’s very tempting to pick up an untamed bird and force it to sit with you. But this removes your bird’s autonomy and teaches it you can’t be trusted. Until your bird is willingly stepping onto your hand, interact with it only inside the cage using treats, target sticks, etc. Gently guide your bird – never grab.
Let your bird set the pace
Some days your bird may seem more social and solicit your attention. Other days it may want to be left alone. Respect your bird’s moods and don’t overwhelm it with too much handling on a given day. Pay attention to signals that your bird has had enough interaction for the time being.
Conclusion
Building trust with your bird is a gradual process requiring empathy, patience, and responsibility on your part. Avoid scaring or overwhelming your bird. With time and positive reinforcement, your bird will come to see you as a friend and look forward to spending time together.