I have an umbrella cockatoo that I love dearly. She was given to me by someone who could no longer care for her, and since I had an African Grey, I had experience with larger birds. However, the noise is something I have grown to ignore,but my boyfriend can not tolerate. Any suggestions?
Hi Mary,
It is very difficult when there is someone new in the home who doesn’t particularly care for the bird, and wants the bird to change her habits that you have been allowing. She is probably jealous of your boyfriend and vice versa. Cockatoos are not quiet, but can certainly learn to scream less. Most will be loud in the morning and at night, and that needs to be tolerated. If the boyfriend expects this bird to never scream, then this is never going to work out. That’s when you might have to decide if this relationship is likely to last as long as your bird. LOL But realistically, your boyfriend has to be willing to meet you halfway. If he screams back at the bird, this doesn’t work – she just feels like he is joining in. If he wants the bird to be put behind closed doors, you are going to end up with a bird that plucks her feathers.
Parrots do not respond to punishment or negative reinforcement. They only learn from the reward method. This can be a treat or just positive attention. Screaming must be ignored entirely – do no more than quietly walk out of the room and do not return until she stops. If she stops for just 30 seconds, go to her and give her a treat or some praise. She will figure it out, but only if you are consistent. If you yell at her, cover her or give her any attention for the noise, you will undo every bit of progress you have made. So your boyfriend must be on board, and must understand that this can take months, or longer. You have allowed the noise, so she has to realize you changed you mind – and this takes time on her part. You can’t let him tease her or reprimand her – he needs to do what you do and he has to be patient.
Thank you for asking Lafeber,
Brenda
