Ask Lafeber

Question:

March 29, 2021

Inherited a parakeet from a friend


How do I get him used to to a new environment? And… a new owner?


Answer:

Hi Vivianne,

Most birds will settle in just fine with time. It varies depending on the bird, and whether this is a tame bird or not. Mainly you need to be patient with and understand he needs time to feel safe in a new home. He should be around people, but not where you are walking past him a lot, and not too close to a door or entry to the room. He should be able to see someone approaching or walking away. Since birds are prey animals, they don’t like for someone to suddenly be next to them. With some birds, it helps to cover part of the cage to offer him some privacy when he needs it. It gives him the option to move behind the cover and peek out to see what is going on. Speak softly to him and give him treats if there is anything special he likes. Do not ever grab him. If he is tame, you can get him used to you and your hand slowly by talking to him and sitting by his cage. I’ll give you a link with more details on helping a bird settle in and how to work with him if that is the plan.

Teaching Your Bird

Pet Bird and Parrot Behavior

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda

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