How to Make a Bird Go in a Cage

Giving your domesticated pet birds time out of the cage is a common means of interacting with them; some birds require it. They can spread their wings, investigate their extended indoor environment and potentially initiate some TLC. They might like it so much they don't want to go back in the cage.

  1. Understanding Your Bird

    • If your domestic bird does not want to go back into his cage after spending time out of the cage, you can assume it may be because he finds the environment outside the cage more enjoyable. Part of taming and training a domesticated bird involves teaching him to behave in an appropriate manner, including following instructions. A well-trained bird will go back in his cage when you want him to.

    Your Bird's Environment

    • Make the inside of your bird's cage an appealing place for your bird to be. Make sure your bird always has an ample supply of food and water in his cage. You should also make sure the bird has plenty of interesting toys inside the cage to play with. Consider putting a second bird in the cage if you suspect your bird is lonely and needs a companion. Many birds should have a companion from the start; those who don't require being paired still may benefit from a pal.

    Training Your Bird

    • If you want your bird to willingly go back into his cage, chances are you will have to motivate him to do so. Avoid giving your bird food or treats when he is outside the cage. Decide on a command to use when you want your bird to go back in his cage, and use it every time you place your bird back in the cage after he has spent time outside the cage. Praise your bird, pet him, give him a treat or give another type of reward when he willingly goes back in the cage on your command. He will learn to associate going into the cage with a reward and will thus most likely begin responding to your verbal command to go back into the cage in order to get the treat.

    The Unwilling Bird

    • Sometimes untrained, untamed or otherwise elusive birds will escape from a cage, and you will need to lure them inside without taking the time to train them. Make sure the only source of food and water for your escaped bird is inside the cage. You can try creating a trail of food that leads into the cage and hope to lure the bird into the cage. In the event that you cannot catch the bird but must, use a bird net to catch the bird and deposit him into the cage.