Birds are intelligent, popular, and quite attractive pets. However, birds should not be treated like dogs, cats or rabbits. Birds should be treated gently. Most people don't know how to pet a bird properly. Sometimes it's hard to pet a bird, but when done right, the bird will enjoy being petted.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Approaching the Bird
Step 1. Understand that not all birds can be petted
Birds are unique and quite individualistic animals. Some types of birds may like to be petted by humans. Some birds may not like being petted or touched by their owners.
- If you want to pet a bird that doesn't belong to you, it may need to get to know you before it can be petted. It's best to approach the bird and gain its trust first before touching it.
- If you keep these birds, understand that not all birds can be petted. Some birds may not like to be touched, and prefer to be left alone. If the bird doesn't like being touched, don't force it to pet it. Instead, find other ways to interact with them, such as teaching the bird a new trick or allowing it to perch near you while you're working.
Step 2. Gently approach the bird before petting it
Make sure the bird is aware of your presence and movement. Talk to him before bringing your hands close to his body. Don't directly touch the bird! Make sure he's used to your presence. Also, make sure the bird is aware of what you want to do to him. This is best done if the bird has never been petted by a human.
Step 3. Observe the bird's body language and make sure it is comfortable
Birds have quite a variety of ways of communicating. However, birds generally communicate nonverbally. Therefore, it is important to observe the bird's body language before touching it.
- Is the bird very stiff and glares at you when approached? Does he walk away, or reject you? Is he trying to bite your hand? These are bird traits that are uncomfortable with your presence and movement. If the bird behaves like this, you need to stop.
- Does the bird turn or lower its head when approached? Did he close his eyes? Does it grow its fur? These are the traits of birds that are comfortable and trust you! This is a good sign!
Method 2 of 2: Petting Birds
Step 1. Don't pet the bird under its neck
This is very important! Most new bird owners don't realize that some bird species, such as parrots, consider touching below the neck as a mating ritual. If a bird is petted too often under the neck, wings, or tail, its behavior may be disrupted later in life.
Although not all birds have these characteristics, most birds prefer to be petted on the head and neck because birds cannot reach these areas. Therefore, you should stroke the bird on the head and neck. By doing this, the bird will be more likely to be petted
Step 2. Start by gently touching or stroking the bird's beak
This is a good start as the bird can get used to your touch. Gently pet the bird, especially if it has never been petted before.
Step 3. Stroke the bird towards its beak, not its tail
Unlike most other pets, birds prefer to be petted against the direction of the feathers, rather than from head to tail. Do this when you are about to pet the bird.
Step 4. Stroke the side of the bird's head
If the bird is comfortable, you can stroke the area between the back of the beak and the side of its head. Most birds also like to be petted in the ear. (Be careful when stroking the bird around the eyes)
Step 5. Caress the back of the bird's head and neck when it's more used to being touched
Most birds like to be petted on the underside of their beaks. However, don't rub the area under the bird's neck to keep it comfortable.
Step 6. Be patient
Most birds need time to get to know and trust humans before they can be petted or touched. However, once the bird trusts you, it will be very loyal to you. Touch the bird gently and patiently. Over time, the bird will be able to be petted and touched by you.
Warning
- Do not stroke the bottom of the bird's neck. Since birds consider this a mating ritual, stroking the bottom of the bird's neck can stimulate him and over time, he will consider you a potential mate. Since you are not a bird, the bird will be confused and frustrated. Eventually, the bird's behavior may be disrupted. Birds may become more aggressive, regurgitate their food, scream, or pluck their own feathers.
- If your bird behaves in this way, immediately consult a veterinarian or ornithologist. This behavior is treatable, especially if you notice it right away. However, this problem must be addressed immediately so that the bird remains healthy.
