Handling

[Sasha]

Hi had Charlie approx 1 mth now and he seems to be settling well he will step onto hand if you cover it with your sleeve but will not step onto bare hand and will fly off immediately will not sit on yr hand. Once out of the cage he will not let you approach him to get him back in his cage.Any advice have tried a piece of dowel but he just wont let anything get near him once out of the cage.

 

[Lullx]

What species of bird is he? How old is he? Did you adopt him, or is he from a store?

Many birds are wary of humans (and their hands) if they haven't been properly socialized from a young age.

I rescued a green cheek conure, Phaedrus, back in late October. He wouldn't come to anyone and would actually lunge at and bite sometimes. I had to let him come to me on his own terms, and eventually he did. Now he trusts me more and will step up when he feels like it.

I suggest finding treats that he really likes (Phae likes plain popcorn, for example) and kind of bribe him with it. Eventually he'll associate you (and your hands) with yummy food and start to become less anxious around you.

The most important thing to remember is that you have to be patient and respect Charlie's boundaries. He'll come around if you're calm and respectful and patient with him.
Talk to him a lot, and let him come out of his cage on his own. Leave the door open somewhat near you (Maybe a few feet from a couch or chair you spend a lot of time on?) and go about your business as usual. They'll sometimes get curious enough and want to come see what you're up to.

Good luck!

 

[Sasha]

Thanks for that charlie is a australian king parrot about 8 mths old and was adopted

 

[kq_fan]

He sounds beautiful! I love king parrots. I agree with Lullx, have him eat a millet spray treat and slowly put your hand towards him. This process should be taken slowly and it may take a few days to weeks till he is ok with your hand. Also, when he is okay with your hand, have him step up on a perch first before your hand because a stick if more firm and if he decides to bite, he will bite the stick, not your hand. Also, just spend time with him. While he is in his cage, talk to him about your day and ask him about his day. Read to him as well. He will enjoy the company. If he bites or screams, don't yell or get mad just put him down and walk it off. It may be hard, trust me, I know. Birds are not easy pets! But are very worth the while!

 

[weco]

Handling by humans is not a natural trait for birds and many don't view our hands as extensions of us, but may look at fingers as little snakes ready to eat them and usually establishing a trust factor sees their apprehension lessen.....

Good Luck.....