Nippy Conure: Tips for Scritches

If you're a bird owner, you know that giving your feathered friend scritches can be a rewarding and bonding experience. However, it's important to do so properly and safely. If you're looking at how to give your bird scritches, then the video below is for you! But if you're conure is nippy, keep reading to find out tips on how to bond with them to give them those much-needed scritches!

I got asked a great question on this video!

"What would you recommend for a conure that’s nippy when you try to scritch them?"

If you have a conure that's nippy when you try to give them scritches, it's important to approach the situation with patience, understanding and respect their boundaries. One of the first things to consider is whether your bird is comfortable with being touched in general. If they're not, it may take some time and effort to build up their trust and comfort levels.

Here are a few tips that may help:

Approach your conure slowly and calmly, and avoid sudden movements that could startle them and talk to them in a calm and reassuring tone.
Start by offering your conure a treat or toy, which can help to establish positive associations with your presence.
Begin by gently touching your conure's beak (like offering a nut or other treat) or feet (like during step-up training) rather than trying to pet them on the back or head right away. Gradually work up to more contact as your conure becomes more comfortable. Once they seem comfortable, you can slowly introduce touch by offering gentle head scritches.
Avoid petting your conure's back or wings, as these areas are often sensitive and can trigger nipping behaviour.
Pay attention to your conure's body language, and be respectful of their signals if they seem uncomfortable or agitated. If they seem uncomfortable or agitated, take a step back and try again later. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to building trust with your bird.
Provide plenty of positive reinforcement when your conure behaves well, such as offering treats, praise, or attention.

Remember that every bird is unique, and establishing a trusting relationship with your conure may take time and patience. However, with consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can help your conure feel more comfortable and confident in your presence.

Additionally, it's important to create a safe and comfortable environment for your bird. Make sure their cage is spacious and includes plenty of toys and perches for them to play on. Providing a consistent daily routine and plenty of socialization time can also help your bird feel more comfortable

Bonus: Consult a bird behaviourist/trainer or an avian veterinarian for additional advice and support. They can help you develop a customized training plan to address your conure's specific needs and behaviours.

Also, check out my video on how to BOND WITH YOUR BIRD! 😍

And how to recognize and understand your conures sounds and behaviours:

And ONE MORE, this one will help with aggressive behaviour, including biting and nipping: