Parrots are incredibly intelligent, social, and affectionate animals, but like all pets, they can experience behavioral challenges that require attention and care. As a parrot owner, understanding and addressing these behaviors is key to maintaining a happy, healthy relationship with your feathered friend. 

1. Biting

Why It Happens:
Biting is one of the most common behavioral issues in parrots, especially among young or newly-adopted birds. Parrots bite as a form of communication when they feel threatened, scared, or overstimulated. They may also bite to establish dominance or if they are in pain or not feeling well.

How to Identify:
Biting often occurs during interactions when a parrot feels uncomfortable. Watch for signs of aggression, such as puffed-up feathers, flapping wings, and loud squawking before the bite happens. A parrot may also bite out of excitement if it’s not used to being handled or feels overwhelmed.

 

How to Address It:

• Establish boundaries: Parrots need to understand what behaviors are acceptable and what aren't. If a parrot bites, avoid reacting with anger, as this can reinforce the behavior. Instead, remain calm and gently place the bird back in its cage or on a perch.

• Use positive reinforcement: Reward calm, gentle behavior with treats, praise, and affection.

• Respect personal space: Be mindful of your parrot’s body language. If your bird looks agitated or retreating, give them space and avoid forcing interactions.

2. Screaming

Why It Happens:
Parrots are naturally very vocal, and screaming is often a form of communication. Your parrot might scream to get attention, express excitement, or voice frustration. In the wild, parrots scream to communicate with their flock, so it’s important to remember this is natural behavior. However, excessive screaming can become problematic, especially in shared living spaces.

 

How to Identify:
Screaming can range from occasional loud calls to constant squawking, often when the bird is seeking attention or if it's feeling lonely, bored, or ignored.

 

How to Address It:

• Redirect the behavior: Ignore the screaming and reward quiet moments. If your parrot screams for attention and you respond immediately, it may learn that screaming gets results.

• Provide enrichment: Make sure your parrot has plenty of toys, puzzles, and activities to keep it mentally and physically stimulated.

• Create a routine: Parrots feel more secure with a regular daily routine. Consistent interaction times for meals, play, and quiet time can help reduce the need for attention-seeking screaming.

3. Feather Plucking

Why It Happens:
Feather plucking is often a sign of stress, boredom, or health issues. Parrots that are left alone too much, not properly stimulated, or that have an underlying medical condition may start plucking their feathers. It’s important to address feather plucking promptly, as it can lead to serious health problems.

 

How to Identify:
Feather plucking is most noticeable when the bird starts pulling out feathers from its chest, belly, or wings. The areas of plucked feathers will often appear bare or irritated.

 

How to Address It:

• Ensure physical and mental stimulation: Provide a variety of toys, foraging opportunities, and social interaction to keep your parrot busy and engaged.

• Check for health problems: Schedule a vet visit to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

• Reduce stress: Ensure your parrot’s environment is calm and free from stressors, such as loud noises, sudden changes in routine, or other pets that may be stressing the bird.

 4. Destructive Chewing

Why It Happens:
Destructive chewing is another way parrots express their curiosity, boredom, or frustration. They love to explore their environment, and without appropriate outlets for their energy, they may start chewing on furniture, electrical cords, or other items in the home.

 

How to Identify:
If your parrot starts chewing on household objects, such as wood furniture, blinds, or non-toy items, it’s a clear sign of destructive chewing. The bird may chew when it’s left alone or when it’s seeking out something to do.

 

How to Address It:

• Provide appropriate toys: Make sure your parrot has plenty of safe, chewable toys, especially those designed to withstand a parrot’s strong beak.

• Encourage healthy chewing habits: Offer natural chewing items, such as untreated wood blocks, cuttlebones, or branches, to direct the bird’s chewing behavior toward safe items.

• Distraction: If you catch your parrot chewing something it shouldn't, calmly redirect them to an appropriate toy or activity.

5. Fear or Anxiety

Why It Happens: 
Parrots, especially those who have been abused, rehomed, or not properly socialized, can experience fear or anxiety. This can manifest in behaviors such as pacing, wide-eyed expressions, or hiding. Loud noises, unfamiliar people, or sudden changes in the environment can also trigger anxiety.

 

How to Identify:
Signs of fear or anxiety include a parrot being overly cautious, trembling, clinging to its cage, or retreating to a corner. A fearful parrot may also display defensive behaviors, such as biting or aggressive posturing.

 

How to Address It:

• Go slow: Avoid forcing your parrot into situations that cause anxiety. Gradually introduce new people, environments, or situations in a calm, controlled manner.

• Create a safe space: Ensure that your parrot has a designated area, such as a perch or quiet corner, where it can retreat to feel safe.

• Provide reassurance: Offer your parrot comfort through calm, gentle interaction. Over time, build trust by spending time with your bird without forcing physical contact.

Building a Strong Relationship with Your Parrot

Addressing behavioral issues is not just about correcting negative behavior but also about nurturing a positive and trusting relationship with your bird. Here are a few additional tips to strengthen the bond between you and your parrot:

• Be patient: Parrots take time to learn and adjust to their environment. Consistent, positive reinforcement will help build trust and reduce negative behaviors.

• Socialize regularly: Spend time interacting with your parrot daily. Whether it’s through training, playing, or simply talking, your bird needs regular socialization to feel secure.

• Understand their needs: Recognize your parrot’s physical and emotional needs. A healthy diet, mental stimulation, and plenty of affection are key to keeping your parrot happy.

With patience, understanding, and proper care, most behavioral issues in parrots can be addressed, leading to a rewarding and long-lasting relationship between you and your feathered friend.