One of the most common problems bird owners have with their feathered friends is biting. There are several reasons why an exotic bird may bite; knowing why may help you avoid getting bitten.
- Birds may bite out of instinct. Certain instincts have not and/or cannot be bred out of a bird.
- Birds may bite out of fear or distrust of humans. A bird may bite someone he does not recognize or does not trust. Allowing an unfamiliar person to approach and try to pick up your bird may lead to a bite. A trip to the vet’s office (another strange and frightening situation) may also lead to a bite.
- Birds may bite in play. Certain breeds, like Amazons and Cockatoos, may get over-stimulated during play and start to bite. Watch the body language — your bird may have fluffed feathers, or eyes that dilate and constrict rapidly — to know if a bite is imminent.
- Birds may bite out of stress or when ill. A bird that isn’t getting enough rest may bite because he is cranky. An injured or sick bird may bite; wrap him in a towel to transport him from the cage to the carrier if you are going to the vet.
- Birds may be territorial. They may bite to protect a favorite stand or even a favorite person! A territorial bird may even bite you for attention.
- Birds may bite during breeding season. The hormonal changes can lead to aggressiveness.
Baby birds may lightly chew on your finger when they are teething. This is different from a deliberate bite!
Two major things can help reduce the chances of a bite. First and foremost, be a responsible owner. Know how your bird acts, and act accordingly. If your bird gets upset around strangers, don’t let them try to touch your bird! Always supervise your bird around non-family members. If your bird is over-stimulated, stressed, ill, or injured, leave him alone and give him time to settle down.
The other thing you can do is work on socialization. Slowly introduce your bird to new people; the younger you start, the better off you both will be. Let the bird determine the pace, and don’t push it. It may help to reserve special treats to be handed out only by strangers — this will help create a positive association with the experience of meeting new people.
Read more about birds from Families.com!