Guilt Comes With The Territory

Bintel Flucuates With Feather Destruction

Parrots, even fully feathered ones, give their caregivers an inordinate amount of guilt. But when they attack themselves with fervor, we fill with anxiety. "What are we doing wrong?" Our anxiety is transferred to them and then it all seems to escalate.

I truly think that this is what makes damaging parrot behavior so difficult to resolve. They seem to have psychic powers and we cannot hide our reactions, no matter how hard we try.

This also happens when a parrot bites. The tension and fearful anticipation changes the relationship. All parrot owners need to practice a few moments of meditation just prior to entering the parrot's area. Otherwise, our daily stresses become their daily stresses. Close your eyes and take a deep breath and lower your energy level.  Then, and only then,  address your parrot.

When the feather destruction gets really bad, a collar or medication may be necessary to detour the pattern. This is always a tough call because the collar or routine of medicating can also become a stress. It's a complicated decision to make.



Artie Happy But Naked

 Even birds that pluck and/or mutilate can be perfectly happy birds. We are the ones that suffer and feel the guilt.  All we can do is provide the optimal environment. Full spectrum lights, a healthy diet that addresses potential food allergies (cut out peanuts, corn, and wheat), frequent shower opportunities, and a happy cage space loaded with foraging, preening, and play activities. 
 
Another possible resolution is to change the relationship with the bird from being too bonded to allowing the bird to be independent and self entertaining.  If the parrot thinks of you as his mate, he/she will feel too much frustration.  Try not to cuddle too much.  It's not good for any parrot because they are hard wired with strong instincts.