How to Grab a Parakeet Without Killing It

Parakeets are like small parrots. Sometimes called budgies, these small birds are members of the parrot family. They are intelligent and playful and make excellent pets. Like other birds, parakeets are initially wary of interaction with humans, particularly holding. Overcome this natural tension by building trust with your parakeet. Train him to eat treats out of your hand, sit on your finger and perch on your shoulder. In time, you'll be able to hold your parakeet in your hand and move him where you need to without fear and panic.

Things You'll Need

  • Parakeet cage with perches, toys, food and water
  • Millet or other parakeet treat
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place your hand near the parakeet on the outside of the cage two to three times a day for 4-7 days to develop a relationship of trust with your parakeet before attempting to hold or grab it. Keep your hand near the parakeet for 10 minutes at a time. Remain calm and quiet during these trust-building sessions.

    • 2

      Open the cage door slowly. Place your hand in the cage in a non-threatening position. Keep your hand flat against the inside of the cage or straighten out your index finger pointed out like a perch. Place your hand in the cage two to three times a day, for 10 minutes at a time, for 4-7 days.

    • 3

      Put your hand in your parakeet's cage while holding a millet stick or another treat that your parakeet enjoys. Offer treats two to three times a day for a week, moving the treat closer to your hand each day. Let the parakeet eat the treat out of your hand on the last day.

    • 4

      Place your hand into your parakeet's cage. Form your hand into a perch by sticking your index finger out and folding the rest of your fingers under into a fist. Slowly approach your parakeet and offer your index finger as a perch on which he can sit. Use a treat if necessary to get your parakeet to jump onto your hand or finger. Reward your parakeet with a treat every time he sits on your hand.

    • 5

      Fill the palm of your hand with a treat. Place your hand in the cage and wait for your parakeet to hop into your hand and eat the treat out of it. Swiftly but carefully move your hand out of the cage and set it, and the parakeet, on top of his cage. Let him hop off your hand and onto the cage. Offer him a treat as he gets comfortable being outside of his cage.

    • 6

      Practice the "step-up" move with your parakeet. Place your extended index finger against his abdomen above his feet and press gently until he hops up on your finger. Move him to the palm of your hand, where he can munch on a treat. Gently cup your other hand around his back so that he is safely contained within your hands. Move him to his cage or wherever else you want to place him.