How to Love Parrots

Parrots are intelligent pets -- even as smart as cats. Acknowledging the braininess of the bird along with its natural instincts to fly and experience its physical environment requires a loving owner. Many parrots can live as long as human beings. Committing to take on a parrot as a pet is a tremendous responsibility that requires a thoroughly thought out decision. Bringing a parrot into your life, however, is a chance to enhance the whole of your life.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Perch
  • Fresh fruits
  • Healthy parrot food
  • Sheet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Raise your parrot from an early age. Take in a parrot at 4 to 6 months old, if possible. Building a nurturing relationship with a parrot from an early age boosts its trust, relaxation and acknowledgment of you as master as it ages and grows.

    • 2

      Begin training the parrot immediately. Take your time and be patient with the bird. Keep your tone calm yet assertive. Instruct the parrot to sit on its perch or to speak, for example. Feed the parrot a small slice of fresh fruit -- orange or mango, for example -- whenever the parrot heeds your request. Avoid being harsh in your tone. Assert yourself as master, but display love through a peaceful and encouraging voice.

    • 3

      Handle the bird several times a day. Pet and speak to the parrot softly when it is in your grasp. Allow the bird to perch on your fingers and forearm. Feed the bird pellets of food or slices of fruit from your own hand to build a bond. Let the parrot fly freely throughout the house for 30 minutes, at least one time per day. Allowing the parrot to experience its natural need to fly and soar prevents it from becoming overly agitated and depressed while in the cage.

    • 4

      Give the bird a stern stare and remain silent if it nips at your fingers. Practice the silent treatment -- by staring at it in the eyes -- every time it pecks inappropriately, to discipline the bird without violence. Cover the cage with a sheet or light blanket for 10 to 15 minutes at a time as another form of nonviolent discipline.

    • 5

      Keep your parrot healthy by visiting the avian veterinarian on a regular basis or at any sign of health problems. Provide the bird with any medicines and immunizations it needs. Ask for advice and updates on diet and overall care. Attending to the health and well-being of your parrot with love can provide you with a pet for at least several decades.