The Problem of Jealous Parrots

Parrots can make amazing companions because they often become very attached to their owners. However, this attachment can also cause problems, such as jealousy. Parrots often become jealous of other birds or people who are receiving attention from their owner. Jealousy can make parrots act out, often aggressively. You can't train jealousy out of parrots, but there are several ways you can alleviate the situation.

  1. Identifying Jealous Behavior

    • One of the most common signs of a jealous parrot is nipping. Parrots nip in order to get attention. Therefore, although a jealous parrot may nip the bird or person it is jealous of, it's generally the owner of the bird who is bitten. Jealous parrots also become very loud, often screeching or calling out at the object of their jealousy. Some jealous parrots also begin to pluck out their feathers, which is a truly bad habit in parrots that, once begun, is incredibly difficult to stop. Jealousy can also cause stress in birds, which can lead to health problems and more severe behavior problems.

    Correctly Introducing New People or Birds

    • When a new bird or person is going to be living in your home, it's important to prepare your other birds, then correctly introduce the newcomer in order to limit jealousy. When introducing a new bird, let your parrot watch you setup the new living area. Talk to an imaginary bird or person while your parrot is with you. Parrots are very intelligent creatures, and will understand that this means someone new will soon be in the house. Introduce the parrot to the new bird or person slowly, without forcing them on each other. Ignore negative behavior and praise positive behavior, making it clear to your bird that you are in charge and will not tolerate negative behavior.

    Reacting to Jealous Behavior

    • When bitten or screeched at by a pet parrot, the first reaction is often to lash out, either by hitting or yelling back at the bird. However, these reactions will only encourage the negative behavior. Hitting confuses the parrot, because it does not understand what you are trying to communicate. Yelling only makes the parrot think it is getting attention. If the bird thinks it is receiving attention for its actions, it will repeat them. Instead, when the bird screeches or nips, simply ignore the bad behavior. This lack of reaction will tell the parrot that the behavior is not effective, and that there is no reason to continue it.

    Positive Enforcement

    • Positive enforcement is not only enjoyable for both you and your bird, but it is one of the most effective ways to limit jealousy in parrots. When the bird or person the parrot is jealous of is around, lavish affection and treats on your parrot. This attention makes the bird or person a source of pleasure instead of jealousy. If your parrot is jealous of a person, have the person give the bird attention and treats, which creates a positive bond instead of a negative one.