How to Introduce a Quaker Parrot to a Sleeping Hut

In the wild, the quaker parrot is the only parrot species that builds a nest. In captivity, we generally keep quaker parrots in a cage. They will sleep on a perch if no other option is available, but many enjoy the nest-like security of a sleeping hut if it's available. If your quaker parrot isn't used to sleeping in a hut, it will take a little patience but most quakers will eventually fall in love with their hut.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Choose a sleep hut that is the right size for your quaker parrot. Most sleeping huts look like cloth tents that are hung from the top of the cage by two fasteners. They come in variable sizes. Choose a sleeping hut that your quaker parrot fits into comfortably when standing. The bird shouldn't have to squeeze in, but the hut should be small enough to provide a "snug" environment.

2. Hang the sleep hut outside of the cage for a few days. This will allow your quaker parrot to get used to it before you actually put the hut into its living space. The bird might be shy of the hut at first, so let it hang outside the cage until your quaker accepts it without a second glance.

3. Once your quaker parrot is used to seeing the sleeping hut, hang it inside the cage. Position it with a perch in front so your quaker can easily climb inside. You may want to line the floor of the hut with paper towels for easy cleaning.

4. Leave the sleeping hut in the cage, even if your bird ignores it or seems fearful of it. Quaker parrots can take a while to adapt to change. Some will ignore a sleeping hut for weeks, then suddenly fall in love with it and sleep in it every night.

Tips & Warnings

• Sleeping huts come in a variety of materials. Some are simply made of cloth, while others are made from fluffy or furry material. If your quaker parrot doesn't like one particular kind of sleeping hut, try a different kind of material.
• Although most quaker parrots use sleeping huts for years without any problem, these huts can pose a danger if they are damaged. If there are holes or loose threads, your bird can catch a toe or leg or other body part and suffer severe injury. Inspect the sleeping hut every day for any holes or loose parts that could pose a danger. If you find any potential problems, replace it immediately.

Resources

• Website that Warns About the Potential Danger of a Sleeping Hut.
• Durable Alternative to Sleeping Hut.