Instructions
The first safety rule when handling cockatoos is keep them away from your face. Facial bites are painful but can be prevented by keeping the cockatoo off your shoulder and holding it at waist level at all times. Extend your arm all the way out when the bird is performing, and lightly put your thumb on its toes to remind it who is in control.
The second safety rule is to keep your energy levels calm. Cockatoos can see your excitement and get excited themselves. If a cockatoo taps its beak on your hand or arm, set it down gently but quickly. Cockatoos sometimes use this to signal hyperactivity and may follow this behavior with a painful bite. Remain calm and your cockatoo will, too.
Handle the bird with your opposite hand. So if you are right handed, handle the bird with your left. This helps you build confidence in yourself and stifle fears of being bitten on your primary hand. You should, however, eventually learn to use both hands to handle your cockatoo.
Be flexible and go with the flow. If your cockatoo wants to swing, then you should swing him. And be gentle, yet confident in your approach as you both learn how to play with each other. Learn your cockatoo's playful habits and tendencies. If it clamps onto your wrist to help keep its balance, take note of this for future reference, so you'll remember what to expect and try to help it stay balanced.
How to Handle a Cockatoo
Some cockatoos like Moluccan Cockatoos and Umbrella Cockatoos love to be handled by their owners. They raise their crests, flap their wings, dance and scream happily in the hands of their owners when played with properly. Play time can be just as enjoyable for you, if you just take the time to practice safety, relax and let the bird be your guide regarding how he wants to play.