Bird afraid of hands

[Shyld]

Hi guys! My cousin got a sweet parrotlet recently (about a month or 2 ago). He offers him treats and he likes to stay on his shoulder, but doesnt step up and retreats in his cage when approached with only a hand without food.

Is this normal? Are there any little tricks that could help him be less afraid or its just that he hasnt settled in yet?

Thanks for your help!

 

[expressmailtome]

Bump.

 

[Jas]

A few months isn't that long so still be expecting the bird to still be adjusting to its. New life.

The cage is its safe place and home, so not only is your cousin invading its territory,its forcing it to interact as it has nowhere to go. Also it leaves the bird no choice and can't choose what it wants to do.

Building trust takes time so keep up the talking and treat giving. Some clicker training and target training would help building some trust. Never forcefully go in the bird's cage, just open the door and see what they do. Putting some perches on the outside can encourage the out. A bird will step up with motivation (you wouldn't go to work for 50 years and not get paid) so treats are very important to build that bond and encourage wanted behaviour (positive reinforcement) .