Socialising and Training

How to handle me

Once you have purchased your bird you must let it settle into its new cage and surroundings for a few days, then start by sitting next to the cage and letting the bird get used to you. Remember not to make any sudden movements as birds are easily frightened. Find out what your bird likes to eat and start to offer this through the bars by hand, although it may take many days for the bird to take the food from you. Once the bird will take the food through the bars you can try putting your hand in the cage, hopefully then it shouldn't be too long until the bird will step onto your hand.

Only at this point should you allow the bird out of its cage, if it is not comfortable stepping onto your hand, when you have to catch the bird to put it back in its cage whatever trust you have built up will be forgotten. Remember to be aware of hazards around the home. One of the biggest causes of injury to pet birds is flying into windows. The main thing to remember is that these birds will not become tame overnight, demanding a lot of patience and time If you persevere the hard work and effort will be well worth it in the end.

Do I like company?

Most birds like the company of their own kind so it is wise to consider buying more than one, but birds kept in groups prefer to interact with each other rather than their owner. Therefore if you wish to teach a budgie or cockatiel to talk it is best to keep one alone.