Many inexperienced bird owners don't realize that a lot of bird species, especially certain breeds of parrots, consider touch below the neck to be a kind of breeding ritual. As a result, frequently petting a bird around its back, wings, or tail can lead to all kinds of behavioural problems later on.
Is it bad to pet a bird?
If you offer your bird full body strokes, you are actually stimulating the production of sexual hormones. Petting down the back or under the wings can lead to a sexually frustrated bird, or a bird who perceives you as his mate rather than a companion.
Do birds understand petting?
Just how not all humans like contact, neither do all birds. If trying to pet a bird that isn't your own, understand that most birds require some level of trust before letting anybody get close to them. A complete stranger isn't going to have a lot of success with receiving affection from them.
Is it bad to cuddle with your bird?
Read your bird's mood As we all know, parrots like it best when something is on their terms; cuddling or stroking should always be when you're both happy about it.
Where should I not pet my bird?
There are a few places you should avoid on your bird where they won't want to be touched. Many owners will caution you against petting your bird's wings and tail since you don't want to encourage mating hormones in your animal. There can be exceptions to this but start with the head, neck, and feet.
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