Bourke Parakeet Neck Biting

[Tallen234]

Our new Bourke parakeet loves hanging out on my shoulder, but also enjoys nipping "at the short hairs" on my neck. It really hurts! I'm positive that this is not malicious. I also know they like shredding toys and I have one in her cage right now. Any advice on how to stop this?

Thanks!

 

[LordTriggs]

sounds like she's preening but is just unaware she's hurting you

any time she begins, tell her "be gentle" if she nips, a calm but firm "no" and remove her from your shoulder and set her on a table or something for a minute without your attention, when she's had a moment to chill out you can interact again

 

[itzjbean]

Shoulder time should be a privilege that is earned. Biting birds should not be allowed on shoulder. You could get her a playstand to play on while outside the cage, and she should have a variety of toys to chew up and play with so as to not feel the urge to pick at your hairs on your neck (lol). Good luck!