How to Hand-Tame a Parrot

Parrots are intelligent and inquisitive birds, and they can make wonderful pets. Their behavior can be both stimulating and frustrating because of their high intelligence, it's best to hand-tame a parrot. Invest the time and reap the rewards of a well-behaved pet.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Purchase a parrot that has been hand-fed. Inquire with the merchant about whether the parrot was hand-fed.
2. Place the bird and its cage in a small room with a floor that has carpeted. Allow the parrot to be around people that are comfortable with pet birds. Keep skittish or nervous individuals away from the parrot at first.
3. Cover all mirrors and windows. Place the cage on the floor of the room and open the door. Allow the parrot to come out on its own or entice it with a branch. Keep your hair out of the way and wear clothing that cannot easily be snagged.
4. Use a low bird stand and two sticks of varying lengths to carry the bird around the small room. Drill the parrot by repeatedly having it go from stick to stand and back again. Move slowly and deliberately, sudden movements frighten parrots.
5. Reward the parrot with treats as it becomes tamer and performs the tasks you desire. Have the parrot perch on your shoulder or hand once you have mastered moving with the sticks.
6. Tell the parrot "No" firmly if it bites and distract it with your other hand. Keep your voice calm and do not shout.

Tips & Warnings

• Use patience and practice these simple moves with your parrot as often as possible.
• It is still possible to hand-tame a parrot that has not been hand raised. You also will avoid many sore fingers if you start off with a parrot that is comfortable around humans.
• Do not wear any jewelry while hand-taming your parrot.
• Do not grab the parrot or chase after it if it jumps to the floor.