Biting

[Jojo]

Biting
Lisa Keelty
Environmental and Wildlife Technician
AFA Certified Aviculturist

Biting is a poorly understood behaviour in pet birds and most of the time what people associate with biting is not in fact biting of any kind. All parrots use their beaks as a third hand and their tongue as a thumb therefore it is natural for them to reach out with their beaks often before reaching out with their feet (birds also use their tongues to feel). To a poorly informed new parrot owner this is sometimes perceived as an aggressive motion. If the person in question pulls his or her hand away as the bird reaches out it then can become a game for the parrot. Each time the person pulls away the bird will try harder to grab them, eventually resulting in an uncomfortable (but not terrible) nip.

There will be times when a bite is merited. We all have good days and bad days and that is no different for our pets. Sometimes parrots will offer cues that they want to be left alone such as avoidance and ignoring our gestures. Unfortunately most owners persist and eventually the only thing that gets the message across that their bird wants some space is a firm bite. Once it learns it can get its point across using biting as a tool that reaction is repeated over and over again.

During the breeding season some species of parrots can become extremely territorial and exhibit high levels of aggression in their cage or chosen nesting sites around the house. Eye pinning, tail fanning and puffing out body feathers are all clear warning signs of the intentions of the bird and like in many other cases are frequently ignored by the owner resulting in what could be a very bad bite.

The best way to train your pet bird not to bite is to avoid situations where there is a high chance of getting bitten. Take the time to read your bird's body language and never persist on handling him/her if they don't want to come out of their cage. If you know there are places around the house where your bird likes to hide such as under couches, in cupboards or in closets make those areas inaccessible before your pet sees them as a potential nesting site. If your bird does bite you for no apparent reason the best reaction is to put the bird down gently, say no and then turn your back and walk away. Don't make a big fuss over the situation since that may prompt your pet to get excited and repeat the behaviour.