How to Tell If a Parrot Likes You

1 Signs a Parrot Likes You and How to Bond

How do you know whether a parrot likes you? Parrots behave very differently from people, but they are intelligent, highly interactive birds. They show affection subtly, and because we do not always understand them we may miss it. Here is how a parrot shows it likes its owner.

1. Calls When It Sees You

A parrot that likes you will flap its wings and call loudly when you approach the cage – it is trying to get your attention to be fed or played with.

2. Lets You Touch It

If it does not flee when you come near, and preens calmly as if you were not there, it deeply trusts you. It also will not dodge or nip when you reach in to touch it.

3. Lowers Its Head to You

A parrot lowering its head in front of you is asking to be scratched – it enjoys the interaction, wants to please you, and shows great trust.

4. Flies to You

If it flies to you or hops onto your shoulder when the cage is opened, it has accepted you as family.

5. Gently Mouths Your Hand

A parrot’s beak conveys a lot. Light, repeated touches without biting mean affection and a deep bond.

6. Meet Its Basic Needs

Feed and water it on a schedule, and occasionally hand-feed a treat to build satisfaction and familiarize it with your voice and scent.

7. Give It a Sense of Security

Provide a safe, comfortable environment, keep it away from loud noise, and prevent other pets from startling it, so it feels your care.

8. Interact and Talk Often

Speak to it gently, move slowly when feeding and cleaning, and let it out to play sometimes – over time it will feel safe with you.

9. Provide Toys

Parrots love to play, so offer climbing toys and bright, noisy toys to keep it happy and more attached to you.

Parrots are emotionally rich birds; long neglect can lead to depression. If you notice poor appetite or feather-plucking, spend more time with it and give it security.