My Pineapple Conure won't stop biting me when I pick him up.

[Squawk_SA]

I got my Pineapple Conure back in March of 2024 and he was never an aggressive bird. In the last month or so my conure has started to develop a habit for biting hands when trying to pick him up whether its out of his cage or off of my shoulder. Any other time he doesn't bite. I received him with his wings clipped and have decided to let them grow back. My theory for the biting is that his wings are sensitive so he might be trying to tell me that it hurts when he is picked up. Another theory to me is that it could be breeding season but I am unaware of when that is. If anyone has advice please let me know.

 

[Maya The Ringneck]

I got my Pineapple Conure back in March of 2024 and he was never an aggressive bird. In the last month or so my conure has started to develop a habit for biting hands when trying to pick him up whether its out of his cage or off of my shoulder. Any other time he doesn't bite. I received him with his wings clipped and have decided to let them grow back. My theory for the biting is that his wings are sensitive so he might be trying to tell me that it hurts when he is picked up. Another theory to me is that it could be breeding season but I am unaware of when that is. If anyone has advice please let me know.

If your bird is young then he could just be going through a faze, where they get a little aggressive, i have two GCC's that are going through this faze right now, you just can't let them boss you and eventually they will grow out of this phase. (Hope this helps)

 

[TeekoGreenCheek2]

Conures are often rehomed, and their bitey nature is a common reason. Especially pineapple conures (also known as Green Cheeks). How do I know? Well, you’re talking to an owner of one! It’s genuinely sad that they end up being rehomed because it leads to more issues, and owners miss out on seeing the conure’s true side—one of the most beautiful things you can experience! These birds are loyal and incredibly sweet companions. However, during the biting stage, their aggression can drive owners away. Keep in mind that birds age differently than humans. Imagine a young teenager going through adolescence—mad, slamming doors, and chattering away. That’s somewhat similar to what your conure is doing. It’s best not to force them to be held, especially since certain parts of their body act as hormone triggers, causing harder bites. Additionally, molting can make them moody. Give your conure time to grow and be patient. While you shouldn’t avoid giving attention to your feathered baby, don’t force interactions if they’re not feeling it. Stick to a balanced diet, ensuring they get their veggies, minerals, and vitamins.”

Good luck with your adorable conure!

PS: If you search for ‘biting’ in the search bar, you’ll find plenty of great parrot owners here who consistently provide excellent training exercises for biting habits on posts

 

[Maya The Ringneck]

Conures are often rehomed, and their bitey nature is a common reason. Especially pineapple conures (also known as Green Cheeks). How do I know? Well, you’re talking to an owner of one! It’s genuinely sad that they end up being rehomed because it leads to more issues, and owners miss out on seeing the conure’s true side—one of the most beautiful things you can experience! These birds are loyal and incredibly sweet companions. However, during the biting stage, their aggression can drive owners away. Keep in mind that birds age differently than humans. Imagine a young teenager going through adolescence—mad, slamming doors, and chattering away. That’s somewhat similar to what your conure is doing. It’s best not to force them to be held, especially since certain parts of their body act as hormone triggers, causing harder bites. Additionally, molting can make them moody. Give your conure time to grow and be patient. While you shouldn’t avoid giving attention to your feathered baby, don’t force interactions if they’re not feeling it. Stick to a balanced diet, ensuring they get their veggies, minerals, and vitamins.”

Good luck with your adorable conure!

PS: If you search for ‘biting’ in the search bar, you’ll find plenty of great parrot owners here who consistently provide excellent training exercises for biting habits on posts

VERY true

 

[Tim Amy Jo]

If your bird is young then he could just be going through a faze, where they get a little aggressive, i have two GCC's that are going through this faze right now, you just can't let them boss you and eventually they will grow out of this phase. (Hope this helps)

Good to know that they'll grow out of this phase! Ours is almost 2 and it hurts sometimes! She bites my ear lobe and hands as well. I have found that if I get her on my hand and hold her right at eye level, she will look right into my eyes as I'm asking her to please stop, I swear she understands me. Sometimes she stops right then, for a day or so. Praying it really does stop. She has a great life, lots of things to fly around and check out, we put her away at about 9pm and she wakes up usually at 8 ish, other than night, she is out all the time. Loves baths. Thanks for the info.