Cockateil that just started being aggressive

[Emerald24]

Hello everyone!

I have a handsome 9 year old grey cockateil that I've owned for his entire life. He has always been a kind, loving, little bird until recently. For about 6 months now he will attack anyone (including me) and carry on with screaming, hissing, etc. He has moments that last maybe 5 minutes about 2 times a day where he's happy and singing, but any other time he's angry and isn't afraid to show it!

My first instinct when this all started happening was that he was ill, so took him to a board certified avian specialist who told me that he is in great health and is eating a well-balanced diet. Also, his housing and location in my home hasn't changed, and I really can't imagine that anything is causing him any stress. So, does anyone have any input or suggestions? Do you think that I should leave him alone and stop handling him or should I continue to handle him despite his tantrums? Thanks a million for any feedback! I appreciate it!

-Sarah-

[birdlady49]

Do you have new friends coming over? New clothing? Are your working hours different? Have you changed your routine at all, especially now that the weather is getting colder and it's getting darker earlier?

[Chico's Mom]

Um, just a thought, and I am really not a bird expert at all, but could your bird be "frustrated", i.e., needing a little birdie girlfriend?