How to Train a Parrot to Stop Biting

Parrots can bite people for a variety of reasons,with the biggest reason being fear. This may be fear of mishandling, or lack of handling, which can cause the parrot to mistrust, resulting in biting. Parrots are very social creatures and the more interaction they have with humans, the more likely they will not become "fear biters."It is a good idea in the beginning phases of training to wear some type of protection. Wearing a thick leather work glove is advisable.

Things You'll Need

  • Parrot Treats
  • Heavy Leather Gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make a fist with one hand when you approach a parrot that bites. Instinctively, when we attempt to pet an animal we do so with an open hand. In the case of a parrot, any exposed appendages stand the risk of a parrot bite. By keeping a closed fist you will limit the parrot’s biting ability. After all, it is easier for the parrot to grab your finger, as opposed to your whole fist.Wear heavy leather gloves if your parrot is a biter.

    • 2

      Never pull your hand away when you are training a parrot to stop biting. When a parrot lunges to bite, and you pull away, the parrot will consider you weak and continue his bad behavior. If you stand firm and keep your fist in his personal space, you will prove to him that you are in control. Repeating this step until the parrot understands that you will not be the one to back down, will help train him to stop biting.

    • 3

      Give the parrot the "evil eye" whenever he attempts to bite. Parrots are very inquisitive creatures and spend much of their time studying facial expressions as well, as their environment. Parrots can detect human emotions such as fear, anger, and sadness, and your facial expressions are a key source of this information. If you give the parrot a dirty look after he tries to bite, he will know by the look on your face that you mean business. It is important to let him know that his behavior is unacceptable and the look of disdain on your face will prove it.

    • 4

      Give the parrot a firm “no” whenever you are training to stop biting. You should not scream, yell, hit, threaten, or cage the bird if he bites. But you should say no, and let him know that you do not approve of his biting. The no should be strong, but not harsh, and it is more a matter of tone than loudness. Parrots respond to deep voices for correction and high-pitched voices for praise. So the deeper your no, the more likely he will learn.

    • 5

      Try treats when training a parrot to stop biting. Attempting to feed the parrot a treat during your training can be an important part of gaining his trust. Placing a treat in between the fingers on your closed fist can protect your finders from being bitten, while still showing him you are not afraid to hand feed him. He will soon catch on that your hand is good for more than just biting.

    • 6

      Teach him to step up. Stepping up is one of the most common commands in parrot training, and the most important. You need to teach the parrot that you can be trusted, and that it is safe for you to handle him. By showing him your fist, and stating “step up” in a direct voice, he will eventually learn to stop biting when he sees your hand, and instead step onto it.