Taming an older cockatiel can be tricky, especially when you are not fond of taming older birds, as they can be challenging to handle with a minimum of basic knowledge. However, this article broadly covers the topic of How to tame an older cockatiel and more. So, read on for more information!
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to tame an older cockatiel:
1. Let the Cockatiel Grow Fond of the New Environment
Everything will always be new to a new cockatiel, such as scent, sights, cages, colors, and people. Giving your cockatiel time to take everything in before you start taming it is best. It can take at least three to eight days to get used to its new environment. This step requires a lot of patience, as the cockatiel is still shy and does not associate much with you.
2. Be Closer to the Cage
Taming an older cockatiel needs you to spend more time in its cage to create fresh and raw memories. You must also show your face regularly by sitting next to its cage. Talk gently to your bird to avoid a sense of violence. Speak closely to your bird, using shorter phrases. Ensure that you are consistent enough to make the process simpler.
3. Gently Introduce Your Hand to the Bird
Since you will be using your hand for feeding, perching, and playing, it is essential to gently insert your hand into the cockatiel’s cage. Be gentle enough to avoid shaking the cage, as this may terrify your cockatiel. Train your bird to use your hand for perching. Always be patient, since training an older cockatiel can take some time.
4. Hand Feeding Your Cockatiel
This is another step that enables you to win your cockatiel over. Find the food that your cockatiel loves and ensure it is a healthy feed. Put the meal in your hand and gently slide it through the bird’s cage. The cockatiel will gladly feed from your hand. Sometimes, consider providing it outside its cage to feel free and bond with you; this only happens after you trim its feathers to prevent it from flying away.
5. Train Your Cockatiel to Step Up
This is a very sensitive step for a cockatiel. It is imperative to teach your cockatiel to step up on your hand using the phrase “up,” “step up,” “get up,” etc. This only happens after your cockatiel starts to trust you; hence, it may take a while before you conduct this step. Place your hand flatly with the thumb tucked in to avoid scaring the cockatiel. A finger can be a little riskier.
6. Free the Cockatiel by Taking It Out of Its Cage
Older cockatiels like having the freedom to exercise and get fresh air out of their cages. Play with your cockatiel out of its cage. Close the windows and door so that the cockatiel cannot fly away. Play good music for it to dance to the tune. Ensure it perches on your hand more often, as this shows you are bonding.
7. Pet Your Cockatiel
Cockatiels are usually petted with cuddles and scratches around their heads, necks, and backs. Scratch the feathers of your cockatiel gently when it perches on your hand. Always massage your cockatiel to strengthen your bond.
8. Spend Quality Time with Your Cockatiel
Older cockatiels love attention from their owners, especially when caged alone. Ensure you spend quality time with your bird to bond through playing, dancing, and scratching. Teach your cockatiel to talk to make it the best companion.
How Do You Get an Old Cockatiel to Trust You?
It is best to use these ten tips to get an old cockatiel to trust you:
1. Provide a conducive environment, more so a spacious cage that will be comfortable, and place it in a corner with a beautiful view.
2. Offer a balanced diet, fresh water, and a bird bath.
3. Give it some space to take in the new environment.
4. Always sit near its cage with your face next to its cage. Always talk gently to it while teaching it some simple phrases.
5. Offer favorite treats, especially millet spray, more often.
6. Play with your cockatiel using its toys. You can also play some favorite music to let it sing along and dance to the tune.
7. Take your cockatiel outside the cage to exercise.
8. Let the cockatiel perch on you, either on your hand, chest, arms, thighs, etc.
9. Scratch the head and around the neck, as these birds love being petted.
10. Set aside the quality time you spend with your bird daily.
How Do You Bond with an Older Bird?
Bonding with an older bird is very easy when you follow the correct procedure. However, this process always takes time, so be patient and consistent.
Below is a nine-phase guide on how to bond with an older bird:
1. Put your bird’s cage where it will see you every time you enter the house. This gives it the best exposure to know you are its owner and caretaker.
2. Always be gentle enough when talking to it. Avoid shouting at it, as it will perceive you as violent and thus scared of you.
3. Avoid shaking the cage when sliding in your hand. Sudden movements may startle your bird.
4. Always offer the bird its favorite treat. This will make the bird love you and associate you with good things.
5. Ensure your bird is always comfortable in its cage by offering favorite toys such as ladders, bells, perches, etc.
6. Socialize with your bird by playing with it. Ensure you spend quality time with your bird for interactions by teaching it simple phrases. This helps in creating a bond.
7. Cuddle your bird. Some birds, such as parakeets and cockatiels, love being petted every time. Therefore, let it perch on your hand and scratch its feathers, especially on the head and around the neck. This calms your bird, even when it feels sick and stressed.
8. Take your bird outside its cage. This will help your bird feel free to exercise and fly.
9. Have an avian vet check up on your bird regularly to ensure it is in the best health state. Once you notice any unusual behavior, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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