Dusty- my cockatiel will not go back in the cage

[jbarkan]

Hi,
I have tried everything. treats, toys.... she is extremely smart-- she will fly on my back where I can't reach her and stay here. I forgot to get her wings clipped, and I am paying the price!
I love her... but she has a mind of her own....

 

[sunnysmom]

Have you tried millet? Hanging a piece of millet spray often works. And try to stay calm. If she senses you're stressed she'll get stressed. And I'm actually not a fan of wing clipping. It's better for a bird's physical and emotional well-being to be flighted.

 

[Tiel Feathers]

You’ll have to keep her a bit hungry when she’s out of her cage so she’ll go back for food. Never force her to do anything, but always try to make everything her choice. Stay calm and give yourself plenty of time. If you walk backwards with her facing you and your hand behind her, she might not fly away as readily. I would start target training her. Also, put her in and take her right out once in a while so she doesn’t think going in her cage always means fun time is over.

 

[Alien J]

put her in and take her right out once in a while so she doesn’t think going in her cage always means fun time is over.

Great idea. TD doesn't get as much out of cage time as he should bcuz of our living situation When he does get out he doesn't want to get back in. It takes a long time to get him to go back. Sadly, I have had to force him a couple of times...like when we broke down on the side of a very busy highway and had to have the RV towed. I think the times I've had to force him in has played a big part in his refusing to go back.
@jbarkan if you find something that works for your cockatiel, please let me know! Millet doesn't work for TD. I have not found any food item that he likes enough to make him go in. Or to use as a training treat. Any ideas?

 

[Peachfaced]

Great idea. TD doesn't get as much out of cage time as he should bcuz of our living situation When he does get out he doesn't want to get back in. It takes a long time to get him to go back. Sadly, I have had to force him a couple of times...like when we broke down on the side of a very busy highway and had to have the RV towed. I think the times I've had to force him in has played a big part in his refusing to go back.
@jbarkan if you find something that works for your cockatiel, please let me know! Millet doesn't work for TD. I have not found any food item that he likes enough to make him go in. Or to use as a training treat. Any ideas?

What all does he eat on a normal basis? If millet is a no go, I'd try another seed type to start; sunflower, safflower, oat groats, or perhaps buckwheat? You could try a small piece of sliced almond or pistachio or another nut as well.