Acclimating My New Parrotlet

[Lynda C]

I got a parrotlet (about 9 months old) a month ago from someone who had gotten her and then the cats were all upset. I think it was a stressful situation for all concerned. My parrotlet either hates me or is afraid of me and I can't seem to get her out of the cage without her putting up a big fuss. If I do get her out she tries to fly away.

How do I get her comfortable with me and have it so she will get on my finger or shoulder? Also, how long should this adjustment take? I don't want her to spend all her time alone in a cage. Any suggestions? Let me know.

[Emmilyy]

She doesn't hate you - she's scared.

Look at it this way.. You're taken to from the only home you've ever known with you're mom and brother and sisters.. Possibly moved to a pet store with lots of prodding fingers.. Then you're taken to a new home, but didn't get to stay long because of the cats, and then you move to another new home.. you're already stressed out and scared from all the moving, but then this bigger person comes in and forces you out of you're room.. you're still scared and don't know what to do, so you run. You don't know the person, you don't trust them..

You have to gain her trust - and it might take a long time. Don't force her into anything, you'll only damage the relationship you might already have with her. Do activities around her cage, get her used to your voice. Feed her and take care of her like normal, but don't force her out of the cage. Once she seems used to you (maybe not trying to get away when you put new food and water in..) try teaching her to step up, if she doesn't already know how.. it might take awhile.. do short sessions - 15-20 minutes a couple times a day.. bribe her with treats if you have to, just, again, don't force her into anything. I think she's seeing you as a threat, and you have to teach her that you're not. She should get it eventually.

Keep in mind, though, she may never be a super tame cuddly bird. We've worked and worked with my sisters parrotlet, and he'll still only step up for us. absalutely NO touching is tolerated with him :P

Good luck, though! i really hope you have some progress with her! Parrotlets are soo cute! Do you have any pics? we love pics! LOL

[Lynda C]

Thank you for your suggestions. That is the whole thing - I don't want to make her more nervous and I feel bad for her. Plus, I have to take her for wing clipping soon and that will be another trauma. I don't necessarily need cuddily, just more comfortable. Thanks again.

[Emmilyy]

no problem! I really hope you can get somewhere with her, just remember patience! LOL. i don't think i even knew the meaning of the word before i got my birds, lmao