Birds have a flock
mentality and are out of their element in a domestic environment. Bonding with
your pet helps to ease the transition and is an essential but often ignored
aspect of bird care. In any case, it would be nice to have the same
relationship with your bird as other pet owners have with their dogs or cats.
There are a few simple but effective tips that you can use to create and
strengthen the bond with your pet bird.
Share some of your meals
Sharing your own meals
helps activate the bird’s flock mentality and to perceive you as a friend.
Birds bond in the wild by regurgitating food for each other. Sharing food off
your plate can have a similar effect. Ensure that the food is safe for birds
and does not contain any salt or seasoning. Fruits are a safe bet in this
case.
The bird may be hesitant
to try the food at first. Simply put a small portion in his food bowl and eat
yours directly in front of him. Your bird should warm up to the idea of sharing
food in no time. Encouraging the bird softly as you eat can help to move things
along.
Create time to bond
This is especially
important for rescue birds or birds that have been rehomed. Some of these birds
have unfortunately had traumatic experiences with humans or simply haven’t
spent much time around them. Schedule time every day to simply sit next to your
bird and speak to him softly as you would to a child. Rehomed or rescue birds
can get nervous around people so it may take some time for your bird to warm up
to you. Sit next to the bird for 5 or 10 minutes daily while avoiding any
sudden movements. You can increase this time as the bird grows more accustomed
to your presence.
Consider grooming
sessions
Grooming is an essential
part of bonding for most animals including birds. Grooming is a great way to
create a strong relationship with your bird provided that he allows himself to
be handled. Gently scratch the back of the head to remove pinfeathers. With
time, consider investing in a shower perch to enjoy quality bath time with your
feathered friend.
Be creative with food
Remember that a proper
diet is an integral part of bird care. Birds generally do well with fresh
seeds, pellets, vegetables and fruits. Find out as much information as you can
about your particular breed’s feeding habits and quantities. Hide some of the
food in your bird toys, cardboard box or around the bird cage. This lets the
bird forage for food as he would in the wild and provides much needed
entertainment while you are away.
Listen to music
together
Birds in the wild mainly
communicate through their voices and body language. Mimicking this is an
effective way to bond with your pet. Sing to your bird or listen to music and
dance for him. Most pets cannot resist the temptation of joining in. It may
feel awkward or silly at first but it will come more naturally in your bird
care routine.
Try bribing your bird
Bribery works magic with
shy birds. Note your pet’s favorite treats and offer them every time you spend
time with him. You can also make a few homemade bird toys to spruce up the bird
cage and give him something to do while you are away.
Respect your pet’s
decision
This is in respect to
birds that are let out of the cage and is especially important for a bird that
just arrived. Getting the bird out of the cage can be challenging at first but
it is best to allow him to do as he likes. Simply open the cage and wait for
him to come out on his own. Physically removing the bird from the cage can
frighten him or create mistrust. Most bird species want to feel control over
their environment so this is a good way to allow your pet that privilege.
Bonding with your bird
is just as important as with any other pet. Ensure that you have a good avian
veterinarian on call in case of any health issues or questions about your pet.
These tips should help you create a mutually rewarding relationship with your
pet bird.
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