Solving Parrot Problems

When not properly cared for, socialized or trained, parrots can develop behavioral problems such as screeching, aggression, and self mutilation. Parrot owners can easily remedy these problems with proper research, care, and patience. With any relationship, sticking through the tough times always results in a stronger, lasting friendship.

Depending on a parrot companion’s background, there may be behavioral problems already in place. Purchasing a parrot from a reputable breeder rather than a pet store or shelter will lower the chances of receiving a parrot with already learned poor behavior. Most parrot breeders are well educated and provide for the needs of their particular parrot breed. Providing loving, stable care from birth will increase the chances of receiving a happy, healthy, well adjusted parrot.  Choosing to purchase from a breeder is an easy solution to troubleshooting many behavioral problems.

However, problems may still arise. Because parrots are such intelligent and sensitive creatures, they can become easily stressed. From one cage to another or from one home to another, parrots require slow and calm transitions. Providing the parrot with similar sized cage with similar toys and perches will allow the parrot to ease into their new home. This rule applies with diet changes, as well. If a new food needs to be integrated into a parrot’s diet, ease a new food into their meal plan a little at a time. Large changes, executed quickly will cause unnecessary problems that could easily be remedied with proper transitioning practices.

Aggression problems such as biting and chewing can also be solved by providing a parrot with adequate chew toys and foods to gnaw on. Biting can be a reflection of boredom or a parrot’s instinctual need to taste the world around them. Large chunks of fruits and vegetables can be hung on strings from the top of the cage, woven between the bars, or placed inside of toys.  This will not only stimulate a parrot physically, but mentally as well. Keeping their interests creatively held will solve many biting and chewing behavior problems.

Most parrot breeds are naturally vocal. Without proper speech training, they may screech and scream as a way to express themselves. Vocal exercising and trick training may serve as an outlet for their socialization and vocal needs.  Patient, routine vocal exercises should solve most screaming or screeching problems.

Whatever the behavioral problem maybe, often times the remedy is troubleshooting before the problem occurs. By researching and becoming educated about the particular parrot species chosen, many problems can be solved before they’ve even begun.  However, if problems do occur, patient, well researched, and loving correction can easily remedy most problems, turning a feathered foe into a lifelong friend!