RescueBirdRita

One thing that really helped was target training first, then building up to step-up. Give it a try — can't hurt!

I've done a ton of research on this because my cockatiel had the same issue. Here's what I learned: the most common cause is not enough quality sleep — they need 10-12 hours uninterrupted. What worked for us was adding a full-spectrum Arcadia UV light near the cage. I also started rotating toys weekly so they always have something "new" and noticed improvement within a week. It's a process but it gets better.

I could have written this post a year ago. Same situation, same frustration. Here's what I wish someone had told me: using a stainless steel cage with proper bar spacing for the species. Would have saved me weeks of stress.

Nice to meet you! Always great to connect with fellow bird owners. You're going to fit right in here!

Every time I cook, Mango sits on top of the fridge and watches with this intensely disapproving expression. When I drop something or burn something they make this little disappointed chirp. I am being critiqued by a creature that eats pellets. Anyone else feel watched in their own kitchen?

Absolutely love hearing success stories! This gives me so much hope for me and Mochi. Thank you for sharing!

Been thinking about this thread all week. I've tried a few of the suggestions and removing mirrors from the cage — can cause hormonal or aggressive behavior was the game changer for us.

Oh my bird did this for about two to three weeks and I tried everything. Honestly, time was the biggest factor. They just grew out of it.

Hang in there! It gets better. My budgie went through this too.

So I had this exact problem about a year ago. Let me share what I learned. The key thing is adding foraging opportunities to at least 3 different spots in the cage. A lot of people also recommend reading "The Parrot Problem Solver" by Barbara Heidenreich. My avian vet in Vaughan also suggested checking for dry winter air from forced-air heating which can sometimes be an underlying factor. Good luck — feel free to DM me if you have questions!

Interesting take! I see your point but I've had a completely different experience. My cockatiel actually...

Have you reached out to Bird Sitting Toronto? They really know their stuff when it comes to bird care.

This is one of those topics where I think there genuinely is no right answer. Both sides have valid points.

My advice would be covering the cage partially at night for 12 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Went through the same thing with my Hahn's macaw last year.

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

Hi everyone! I recently adopted a rescue caique from a shelter near Oakville. Their name is Clover (the shelter named them but it stuck). They're a bit shy and don't trust easily — no idea what their previous situation was. I want to give them the absolute best life possible. Any tips for helping a rescue bird settle in and learn to trust again?

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

Reading this hit home. My sun conure went through the same phase around the same age. What helped us was clicker training for 10-15 minutes a day. Also just accepting that birds are gonna bird, you know?

Switched from Harrison's to Harrison's pellets about a month ago. Here's my honest take: my umbrella cockatoo likes the taste way more (actually eats it willingly vs throwing it on the floor). Consistency of droppings improved. Feather quality seems about the same. Price is comparable. Overall I'd give it a solid 8/10. Anyone else tried this brand?

I've tried a bunch of brands and TOP's pellets is hands down the best value. My Zazu devours it.