Birds are highly intelligent and social creatures and will benefit greatly from the quality and quantity of time you spend with them.

Normal Behaviors

Birds exhibit natural behaviors, and so you should expect some of the following to occur. Keep in mind that each bird is an individual and will exhibit its own unique behaviors.

• Screeching and loudness
• Occasional nipping
• Attempting to be dominant, i.e. climbing on shoulders or the highest perch
• Destructiveness to toys and perches
• Sleeping with head tucked under wings
• Messiness, i.e. throwing foods

Abnormal Behaviors

Birds sometimes exhibit negative behaviors when they are upset. If your bird exhibits these or other unusual behaviors, contact your avian veterinarian.

• Feather picking
• Excessive screaming
• Excessive aggressiveness, i.e. excessive biting
• Excessive pacing

Quality Time With Your Bird

We suggest that you spend at least two hours per day socializing with your bird outside of the cage. This is the time he or she can exercise and bond with you. Research publications, books and websites (some listed under the resources section) to learn more about your bird's behavior and for ways you can develop a strong relationship wtih him or her. The sooner you learn positive behavioral techniques, the better it will be for your bird.