Aggressive Behavior in a Cockatiel

According to writer Chris Davis from the Bird Channel website, cockatiels are interesting birds because they constantly exhibit new and different behaviors as they grow and learn. Unfortunately, sometimes these birds change in a negative way and become aggressive.

  1. Types

    • Cockatiels are generally docile and sweet birds with a great deal of personality. However, males of the species sometimes become aggressive when they are hormonal and ready to breed. Parrot Feather also indicates that some cockatiels are aggressive if they have been inappropriately handled.

    Effects

    • Some male cockatiels develop obsessions focused around a particular person or object. The bird becomes incensed when the object does not respond to it as a mate would and may turn on it in an aggressive way, according to Davis. A bird's training also plays a part in aggression. Birds that have been hit on the beak are fearful of humans and will bite even more.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Davis recommends changing the bird's environment to distract it from hormonal behavior. Provide it with new toys and snacks that draw its attention toward other interests. Finally, move your hand away from a biting cockatiel but do not reinforce the behavior by following the move with a reaction.