When me and my dad are petting our cockatiel, sometimes it exhibits mating behaviour and makes sounds like this : https://youtu.be/QiUTG-hUA0Q
We both do not pet it on the back or wings, we only pet the head and the upper neck. Sometime he even does this when not being petted, just by sitting on us. Also, he’s a male. Is this normal? How can it be stopped?
Hi,
First, I’d like to point out that the majority of the pet bird videos you see on YouTube, posted by owners, are simply wrong, as far as what the owner thinks the bird is doing. Most of the owners are sadly clueless about bird behavior and often simple care and feeding.
Your little guy is probably just communicating with you. If he is quivering a lot, then stop what you are doing and distract him with something else. He is going to vocalize to you, and not all vocalizing is related to wanting a mate or being hormonal. Hormonal behavior and calling tends to be very loud and excessive to the point that you really want him to stop. Soft calling or vocalizing is fine. It’s a sign of a happy bird. The best way to avoid hormone triggers is just what you are doing – pet him only on the head and neck area. Don’t let him roam freely around the house or get into cozy places. Even a male cockatiel will look for a nesting spot! Never give him a bird hut, tent or any type of house or bed. Should he ever get too obsessive with a toy, such as feeding it or mating with it, take the toy away. Try some good activities such as teaching him to forage or work on some easy training with him. The webinars below will give you some ideas.
Thank you for asking Lafeber,
Brenda
