With bright colors, affectionate, and easy-going, parrots are wonderful pets for bird lovers of all ages. Whether you are a new “parent” to a parrot or have had one for a few years, here are 6 simple ways to show how much you care for and love your parrot!
#1 – Don’t rush them: let them take the first step
Just like many other animals, parrots that are not used to their environment, a new routine, strange noises, or a new owner can be fickle and nervous. Whether your parrot is new to you or not, before trying to intensify your attachment “ritual,” let them come to you. Make yourself available by sitting nearby when they are out of their habitat, but don’t approach them right away. Let them get used to your presence first.
Who knows? Maybe after a while, they will feel comfortable and confident enough to approach you themselves.
#2 – Share a meal with your parrot
In the wild, parrots often share meals. When you do the same with your pet parrot, you show them that you are part of their tribe or “family”. Make sure that what you feed your animal is safe for them and low in salt and seasonings. Avoid especially:
- chocolate;
- junk food;
- large amounts of dairy products like hard cheeses and yogurts;
- avocados;
- processed meats;
- onions;
- sprouted beans;
- fruit pits and apple seeds;
- and rhubarb.
If your parrot is too hesitant to take a bite, try our next tip.
Parrots communicate in two ways: through their voice and through their body language.
You can communicate using the methods they prefer by talking to them softly, playing music, and singing gently to them.
#4 – If they like music, try dancing
As we mentioned in point 3, parrots communicate through body language and sounds.
So, how do you combine these communication methods?
By dancing!
Put on something catchy with a good rhythm, and you and your parrot can dance together.
If your new parrot is a cockatoo, dancing should certainly appeal to them as they have a natural love for dancing!
5# – Give them treats
Do you know how you feel when someone offers you a warm homemade cookie or cake right out of the oven?
That’s exactly how parrots feel when they are given treats.
There are tons of delicious treats for parrots and macaws! You can find them at specialty bird stores.
6# – Hold them and pet them
Please note that new parrot owners will need to get used to this form of affection. Once your parrot feels comfortable with you and is happy being in your presence, start by gently touching their beak. If that goes well, try gently petting the sides of their head. Then you may be able to pet the back of their head and neck. We have found that many parrots love having their ears scratched… if you can find them!
Don’t rush things and be patient with yourself and your pet.
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