Just as the question can they sense fear? And do they use it against you? (Im talking like conures) Archived post. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast.
What Scares Your Pet Bird
A few of their scariest things …
Halloween is just around the corner. We fear ghosts and zombies, and maybe even the idea of a whole neighborhood full of kids consuming sugar. However, what frightens your small companion bird, and what can you do to help it if it does?
First, recognize that our companion birds are naturally endowed with survival instincts. As a large predator species, we may not always see things that frighten small prey species. Think like a bird in order to minimize scary moments.
Your small bird’s body language will let you know if it is afraid. Frightened birds hold their feathers in close to their body. Cockatiels put their crests up. They could rock back and forth or gather in a corner. Terrified birds will hiss and stick out their necks as a form of intimidation. These are all bad indicators, and you run the risk of getting bitten if you try to calm a scared bird down. Since predators have their eyes on the front of their heads, facing forward, try to calm your bird down with gentle words, turn only one eye toward it, and take a small step back. Give your bird space and time to calm down. When faced with a threat, birds should choose to “fly” rather than “fight.” A bird perceives something as frightening if it seems like it wants to take off.
Predators, such as the dogs or cats we also own as pets, terrify prey species. Consider your small bird’s safety and make sure he stays in the cage with the resident dog or cat. Find a way to keep your pet and any other pet apart if they are both staring at your bird. Just think of the anxiety your bird would experience if he thought he might end up as dinner.
Modifications to the interior and exterior décor of your bird’s cage may make him uncomfortable. For instance, hanging a vibrant picture close to the cage could be dangerous. A small bird may perceive a ceiling fan or nearly anything above as a raptor, which is its natural predator, looming over him. When you redecorate and your bird starts acting differently, try to identify the cause of the behavior.
I’m speaking like a conjurer when I ask if they can sense fear and if they turn it against you. Archived post New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast.
Hands or Handling
Certain birds simply detest hands, particularly when those hands are in their cage, which serves as their personal safe haven. Teach your bird to exit the cage using a perch, a ladder, or by himself when a special treat is presented to him outside the cage. Practice managing your bird in a small area and away from the cage. When you’re getting to know your bird, give it treats by hand, like dropping a treat in a food cup. Gradually become adept at holding the treat and utilizing it to lure your bird from its cage. To avoid bird fright or a bite to an enquiring child’s finger, it might be a good idea to establish a rule requiring adults to keep children inside the house a certain distance away from the birdcage.