Having a pet bird that bites can be a frustrating and painful experience! However, understanding why your bird is biting and taking the right steps can help address this behaviour.
If you've watched all the videos on biting and you are still wondering what to do, let's go over some steps!
This blog was written to help answer this comment:
1. Understand the Cause
Before addressing the biting, it’s essential to understand why your bird is biting. Birds bite for various reasons, including:
Fear: New environments, people, or objects can be intimidating.
Territorial Behavior: Defending their cage or favourite person.
Hormonal Changes: Especially common during the breeding season.
Lack of Socialization: Not being used to human interaction.
Health Issues: Pain or discomfort can cause irritability.
Trauma: Maybe you or something present is triggering for the bird because of past traumas.
& more!
2. Build Trust Gradually
If your bird is biting out of fear or lack of socialization, you’ll need to build trust slowly:
Spend Time Near the Cage: Talk to your bird calmly and reassuringly.
Treatos: Offer treats from your hand to create positive associations.
Avoid Sudden Movements: Move slowly and predictably around your bird.
Training: Start with step-up training; you can use a perch or stand for step up instead of your hand. Proper handling techniques can prevent biting. If your bird is hand-shy, use a perch to move them instead.
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3. Respect Their Space
Birds, like all animals, need their personal space. If your bird is biting when you approach their cage or certain areas, respect their boundaries:
Avoid Forced Interaction: Let your bird come to you.
Create Safe Zones: Designate areas where your bird can feel secure and not be disturbed.
Create Enrichment Areas: Designate birb areas where your bird has somewhere to hang out and something to do to distract/redirect. Tree stands with toys, foraging, puzzle toys and fun climbing are great things to include.
4. Reinforce Positive Behaviour
Positive reinforcement can go a long way in shaping your bird’s behaviour:
Reward Good Behavior: Use treats, praise, and attention when your bird behaves well.
Ignore Negative Behavior: Sometimes, ignoring the biting can help as any reaction can reinforce the behaviour.
5. Provide Enrichment
Boredom can lead to behavioural issues in birds. Keep your bird mentally and physically stimulated:
Toys and Puzzles: Rotate toys regularly to keep things interesting.
Interactive Play: Spend time playing and engaging with your bird.
Flight Time: Allow your bird some free-flight time outside the cage.
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6. Consult a Veterinarian
If you suspect health issues might be causing the biting, consult a vet:
Regular Check-ups: Ensure your bird is in good health.
7. Professional Help
Consider professional help:
Behavioural Consultation: Find professionals who specialize in avian behaviour and can provide valuable insights and a plan to overcome the behaviours. I recommend Best Behaved Birds! Use code THEPARROTPOD for a freebie when booking a consult!
Bird Training Classes: Look for local classes or workshops.
8. Patience and Consistency
Changing behaviour takes time and consistency:
Be Patient: Progress may be slow, but consistency is key.
Stay Calm: Birds can pick up on your stress and frustration, exacerbating the problem.
Remember, every bird is unique, so what works for one might not work for another. Stay committed to finding the right approach for your feathered friend.❤️
