Eclectus petting question

[BerryB]

Hi everyone I have a question about petting my male eclectus. He is 5 months and counting and seems to really like me. He always steps up and wants to just hang out no problem. But when I’m holding him and I go to pet him with my other hand he squawks and either jumps off or tries to bite. I respect his space so when i try to pet him at different times of the day and his body language says “don’t you dare”I don’t touch him.
So my question is should I STOP attempting to pet him and wait weeks and maybe months and than try to pet him? Or should I continue to try and pet him at least once a day so he gets used to it and eventually let’s me? I’m in no hurry either way. I just don’t want to damage our relationship. I’m a newbie to eclectuses and am just looking for suggestions. He is a happy talkative guy other than if I try to touch him with my free hand. Thanks in advanced for any insights.

 

[Flboy]

Welcome, my JoJo and I have been together 3 years. He does not like being petted..period! Some people love having their ears played with, others don’t!
Word of advice, double posting will get you nowhere. Fast!

 

[MooshieBird]

I'm no eclectus expert but some birds don't like being petted. How long have you had him? He may just not know you well enough yet. We have some good ekkie folks on the forums that may chime in when they see your post.

 

[chris-md]

Every bird is an individual but eclectus as a rule are not fans of petting like you would a Macaw or conure. I have no proof of this fact, but I personally attribute it in part because their feathers and feather structure are unique among parrots. They are less tolerant of foreign materials on their feathers than others, among other things.

They also tend to be more standoffish, which likely accounts for the majority of reasons why they don’t like excessive petting.

 

[Scott]

Welcome to you and your young ekkie!!

My sample size of ekkies is two, one male, the other female. The male hated to be petted but the female, somewhat uncharacteristically, loved such contact.

Seems yours is very typical; capable of a close bond but petting not desired!

 

[BerryB]

Thanks everyone for the useful info and advice!

 

[Soyajam]

My female eclectus much prefers sitting close, and touching you, rather than being actively pet.

If you touch her beak with your nose, or lean your head close she's fine but the moment you go to touch her with your hands, she very politely says "no thanks".

Your bird might be the same. Try some shoulder snuggling, or "snootling" (my word) - which is nuzzling your nose into their feathers.