How to Hand Train a Indian Ringneck Parrot

Most birds are tame when purchased from a breeder. However, some birds that have been re-homed or rescued suffer behavioral problems induced by poor handling and inadequate cage conditions. Indian ringnecks are potentially prone to reverting to their wild instincts if not properly handled daily. To win back the trust of a freighted, aggressive ringneck you must also provide optimal living conditions along with a few hours of out-of-cage time a day to maintain their tameness.

Things You'll Need

  • Proper sized aviary
  • Several perches of different sizes
  • Ringneck pellet diet
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Interactive toys
  • One dowel of appropriate perch size
  • Favorite treat (sunflower or pinch of favorite fruit)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Arrange the inside of the cage so that it comfortably accommodates the bird, toys and food dishes. The bird should be able to stretch its wings and turn around without bumping anything to reduce anxiety and nervousness.

    • 2

      Feed a variety of quality pellet foods and fresh water daily. Feed fresh fruit and vegetables daily, and provide a mineral block to ensure that all of the bird's nutritional needs are met, and to reduce aggression.

    • 3

      Use a dowel or perch instead of your hand when asking the bird to step up to reduce anxiety and prevent bites.

    • 4

      Rotate toys often to offer a variety of textures, colors and puzzles to reduce aggression and encourage good chewing behaviors.

    • 5

      Provide time each day for the bird to get out of the cage to stretch its wings and play undisturbed on the top of the cage. This teaches the bird that the house is a safe place to play and sleep.

    • 6

      Interact with the bird daily playing games or going for walks. This maintains the bird̵7;s level of sociability making it less apt to revert to flighty behavior.

    • 7

      Interact with the bird daily by practicing learned commands and learning new tricks. This is necessary to maintain the bird in a tame state that allows the handler and veterinarian to interact with it.