How to Stop a Parrot From Squawking

Parrots are a type of bird that are common as pets. Having a parrot as a pet requires a commitment to the bird and its care. Training is an important part of having a parrot as a pet, just like it is for a dog. Parrots are a flock species which means they typically live in large groups of birds of the same species. This is important to remember when training and dealing with behavior issues with your pet parrot, such as squawking.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage cover
  • Bird food
  • Parrot toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take notes for a week as to the time of day that your parrot squawks. Keeping a record of your bird's behavior will help you pinpoint why your parrot is screaming. Often, parrots scream early in the morning to wake their flock or to get attention from flock members. Since the parrot lives in a home with humans, the humans are its flock. Also, parrots may scream because there is nothing else for them to do.

    • 2

      Decrease external stimulus that may promote screaming. This could be loud noises or the sun coming up. Covering the cage with a cover and leaving the room can quiet your parrot. Covering the cage at night will also help the morning screaming because the parrot will feel safe and calm under the cover. Also, if you are being noisy, the parrot may feel the need join in.

    • 3

      Turn off the lights around the parrot in the evening to promote quiet behavior overnight.

    • 4

      Prepare a variety of treats for your bird. Fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts or cooked egg are acceptable treats.

    • 5

      Wait for the bird to be quiet and then give it a treat. Rewards under these circumstances reinforce positive behavior.

    • 6

      Wait for the parrot to stop squawking before offering a treat. Wait a few seconds after it stops screaming so it doesn't think you are reinforcing the screaming.

    • 7

      Entertain your parrot by providing toys and foraging opportunities. This can provide the bird with activities to help reduce the screaming. Pet stores have toys specially made for parrots to chew on and interact with. Items around your home can also be used to entertain your parrots. Cardboard boxes, without tape or staples, phone books and shredded paper can provide daily enrichment.

    • 8

      Change the toys everyday to keep them interesting and exciting for your pet.