How to Use a Bird Harness

Placing a bird harness over your pet will allow it to fly. In fact, bird-supply outlet Parrot University states that flying improves the intelligence, visual acuity and health of parrots. Flying is "fundamental to every component of a parrot's mind and body," they say. But the bird harness isn't only designed for parrots; other birds can use it and you can be more confident that your animal won't fly away. Getting your bird adjusted to the harness can be challenging.

Instructions

    • 1

      Slide the middle of the harness slowly over the bird's head. Some birds will be extremely resistant, but if your bird is familiar with you and you have had it for a pet since it was very young, then the bird should cooperate. Try not to push the bird off-balance as you adjust the harness or your bird could become extremely resistant. Hold food through the head of the harness to get the bird to poke its head through the first loop.

    • 2

      Lift the left wing slowly through the side loop, then lift the right wing slowly through the other side loop. Reward your parent through each phase of fitting it to the harness. You can give it a treat or a rub on the head if it likes to be touched.

    • 3

      Adjust the strap on the harness by gently sliding the fabric up the buckle. Make sure you don't adjust it so tight as to render your bird uncomfortable and unable fly. You should be able to slip your index finger between the bird and the belt.

    • 4

      Tie the end of the harness to an object or hold on to it. The harness will act as a leash, keeping your bird from flying away. Tie the leash to a rope to give your bird more flying freedom.