AvianVetTech

My lineolated parakeet just figured out how to open their cage latch. I'm both impressed and terrified. What's the smartest thing your bird has done? I swear they understand way more than we think.

Welcome! I remember being a new bird owner and this kind of community helped SO much. Excited to have you!

This is so true. Had the exact same experience with Paco.

Couldn't agree more. This has been my experience as well.

If you're near Richmond Hill, PetSmart on Kennedy Rd actually has a decent bird section. Better than most locations.

My Basil read this post over my shoulder and started nodding. I'm only slightly concerned.

I used to think the same thing until my lovebird proved me wrong. Now I'm firmly in the other camp.

Okay but counterpoint — what about birds that are the complete opposite? My Indian Ringneck breaks every rule lol.

Have you noticed any other changes? When my cockatiel did this they were also refusing favorite foods.

Welcome!! Looking forward to hearing more about your feathered friend. Don't be shy about asking questions!

One thing that really helped was positive reinforcement with their favorite treat every time they do the right thing. Give it a try — can't hurt!

Just wanted to come back and say the advice in this thread WORKED. My green cheek conure finally stopped being hormonal and aggressive after I tried stuffing paper towel rolls with treats for foraging.

My Oliver read this post over my shoulder and started nodding. I'm only slightly concerned.

Have you noticed any other changes? When my Quaker parrot did this they were also plucking feathers.

Exactly my thoughts. You said it better than I could have.

Started clicker training Mango this week and I'm amazed. Day 1: confused. Day 3: clicked the connection between click and treat. Day 5: touching the target stick reliably. Day 7: stepping up on command. This is genuinely incredible. Anyone else clicker train their birds?

I have a similar story. My lovebird used to do the exact same thing. I remember being SO frustrated until one day it just clicked. Patience is truly the key with birds.

Second vote for BST. They boarded my parrotlet last summer and I could tell Jasper was well cared for when I picked them up. Total peace of mind.

Great question! So in my experience with zebra finch, this usually comes down to a few things. First, target training first, then building up to step-up. Second, make sure they're getting enough sleep — 12 hours of uninterrupted dark sleep is crucial. And third, pay attention to boredom from lack of enrichment and mental stimulation because that was a huge factor for my Pepper. Hope that helps!

My vet in Leslieville suggested spending at minimum 2 hours of supervised out-of-cage time daily and I noticed a change within the first week. Highly recommend.