How to Take a Lovebird From Its Cage

Lovebirds are fun birds to keep as pets. They bond easily with their owners, are easy to care for and enjoy being handled. Once they've bonded with their owners, many lovebirds become very tame and enjoy hiding in hair and pockets. The first step to tame and bond with your lovebird is safely taking them out of their cage.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Plan on working with your lovebirds for 1 to 2 sessions a day. However, plan to make these sessions fairly short until you and your bird have bonded.

2. Be as relaxed as possible when handling your lovebirds. Take a few deep breaths if you have to. If you squeal when your bird moves or end up dropping your bird, not only could you injure your bird, but also it probably won't learn to trust you.

3. Pick up your lovebird with a towel if it seems aggressive. Most lovebirds bite until they get to know their owners.

4. Approach your lovebird slowly with a towel. Avoid suddenly lunging toward them. Gently hold them in the towel if they try to get away.

5. Wait a week or two and your bird should be safe to handle without a towel. After your bird is more comfortable with you, you can work up to petting and playing with your bird. You can try putting him onto your shoulder or in a shirt pocket.

6. Blow lightly on your lovebird's face if it bites you. Try to avoid jumping or yelling at your bird. This won't teach your bird not to bite you.

Tips & Warnings

• Males tend to be easier to care for and tame than female lovebirds.
• Never squeeze a bird, especially on the chest.
• Children probably shouldn't handle lovebirds and they should care for them with supervision.