biting gcc

[icemanmatt]

Im sorry to ask this, I`m sure you all have seen it a thousand times, but, I`m new, bear with me We`ve had our Gcc MaiTai for about a year, and HE STILL BITES! it doesn`t seem as though he`s being mean, he seems to do it to initiate play, but he does it CONSTANTLY. How can we break this habit?

 

[weco]

A parrot does not realize he is biting too hard until he gets a response from a human, or even another pet, a dog, a cat, etc. The most effective reactions, will, naturally, depend on your individual bird.

If you have a young parrot, one who has not had much human interaction, you can teach the bird what is acceptable by gently distracting him with a tickle or a toy every time his beak gets too nippy. Ignoring biting behavior works in some cases, although usually only when the bird is trying to get attention. Alternatively, you can say a loud clear, “No bite” or similar phrase and move your hand or finger quickly away.

If you decide to ignore your feathered friend, watch out for his displeasure. Mine have a habit of getting fed up with being ignored (actually what they perceive as being ignored), or maybe it is just that they feel one of their flockmates is getting more attention than they are. They will light on my shoulder and give me a smart nip on the ear – sometimes bringing blood.

 

[legal_eagle]

Probably the most effective way to deal with it is to avoid the situations where he is prone to biting and see if that breaks the habit. For example, if he tends to bite on the shoulder, don't let him on and see if he learns not to bite. When he bites, put him calmly back in his cage. Maybe that will help him get the message. If you can provide more details, I might have some other ideas.

 

[icemanmatt]

thanks for the advice. We have tried ignoring the bites& the firm"no bite" It seems as though he just wants a reaction. could it be he needs some new toys for stimulation? maybe hes bored?

 

[icemanmatt]

there seems to be no rhyme or reason why he bites. no trigger. hes just sitting on your shoulder, after a minute just bites your neck or ear. he could be calmly sitting on your hand and just start randomly biting your fingers. ignoring the bite seems to be a challenge to him- he bites harder,lol

 

[legal_eagle]

It sounds like a habit that he has come to enjoy. I would put him back in his cage when he bites and say "no bite." You might also limit the amount of time he is on you so that the habit is not triggered. Let him play on his play area or cage top more.

 

[MonicaMc]

thanks for the advice. We have tried ignoring the bites& the firm"no bite" It seems as though he just wants a reaction. could it be he needs some new toys for stimulation? maybe hes bored?

there seems to be no rhyme or reason why he bites. no trigger. hes just sitting on your shoulder, after a minute just bites your neck or ear. he could be calmly sitting on your hand and just start randomly biting your fingers. ignoring the bite seems to be a challenge to him- he bites harder,lol

I think you probably answered your own question. From the sounds of it, he's bored and he's decided to explore his world. Which happens to be you!

Why not redirect his attention with toys and treats? Wear birdy approved necklaces and bracelets? Give him something to do while he's with you!

Polly Wanna Necklace Bird Toy | Bird Toy | Parakeet Toys | Sun Conures Toys | African Greys Toys | Parrot Toys
Treat Cup Necklace-Medium Bird Toy
A Toy Enjoyed?. | The Bird Mama
Bird Toy Necklace


You could also give him ways to forage or teach him new behaviors!



Rather than ignoring the bites or telling him not to bite, it's better to avoid getting bitten (I know, easier said than done!). Figure out why he's nippy/bitey, then give him something to do that doesn't involve your flesh in his beak.