Ask Lafeber

Bonding

Hello, so I had my parrot for about a year and a half and she can eat from my hand, I can pick her up, but whenever my hand is higher (doesn’t matter if I am trying to touch her or anything) she bites. I always let her out for at least two hours if i have no time. When she is out she only walks around and picks dirt or something from the floor, carpet, etc… I talk with her, play music, but she still is scared of me. I mean her previous owners didn’t touch her either so that’s maybe it. But it’s been almost two years and I’m starting to loose hope. Is it normal for the bird to take so long to bond? Thank you

Hi Goda,

You didn’t mention what species she is, so it’s hard for me to tell you if this is common with this species. Some parrot species are not as social as others. Letting her roam takes away any dependence she has on you. When she is out of the cage she needs to be on you, or on a perch or play stand. A parrot should never be allowed to walk around on the floor. There are many dangers including being stepped on or getting sick from something that you track in from outside. It can take longer for some parrots to bond – it depends on their background and the species. I can give you the links to our bird behavior and training pages, and these can help you a lot. But again, if you let me know what she is, I can give you a better idea of what to expect from her.

Pet Bird and Parrot Behavior

Teaching Your Bird

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda