Spring Fever?

Spring can cause sweet birds to become screaming nippy nut cases. Parrots can go through cycles of hormonal craziness. They also molt this time of year. Having a body full of pin feathers just can’t be comfortable. Patience is going to be needed during this time. It will end. It does NOT mean your bird needs to be bred.

 Try to have more activities for your parrot. Hide their nuts around their cage for them to hunt. Work on “flying” them in your hands around the house. We learned this technique from Sheri at Parrot Island, and it has been great fun. We’d love to explain it in detail if asked. Make sure your parrot is getting a good 10 hours of sleep. Teach your parrot how to throw a mini Frisbee. Play on the floor with them with stacking blocks or a whiffle ball.

 Don’t add to the problem by petting your parrot on its back, and for some birds under their wing, or allowing them to regurgitate on you. This can stimulate them to want to mate. Also don’t give them a nest area or nesting materials. If you have a bird that does become an egg layer do talk to your Avian Vet. You will need to add calcium in their diet, but there may be drugs they can offer to help.

 Don’t punish your parrot for screaming by covering their cage or spraying them with water. They don’t understand this is unacceptable behavior. Praise them when they are quiet, and ignore the screaming. You can even try speaking to them quietly. Sometimes this will get them to be quiet to find out what you are saying. They will react from your mood, so stay calm.

 Some parrots breeze through this without a notice, while others, well- let’s just say “oh my!” Please let us know if we can help you with specific problems.

 Enjoy the weather!

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Last modified: 03/26/08