Avian Biting and Aggressive Behaviors

The typical scenario is this. You've owned your bird for a year or so. It has been your darling, adoring pet, never balking at cuddling and kisses. Then one day with no warning, your bird strikes out and bites. Most owners express shock and disappointment when their beloved pet shows such unexpected aggressive behavior. But how unexpected should this behavior really be?

According to IAABC avian behaviorist Liz Wilson, “…In their natural environments, competition and / or conflict between parrots rarely escalates to physical violence --- instead, they vocalize (scream) and/or use body language by strutting, posturing, and fluffing feathers to make themselves look bigger. Beaks are used for climbing, eating, playing (wrestling) and preening... not for biting…”

So why do our companion parrots bite us? Biting does not seem to be a part of a parrot’s life in the wild, yet many, many bird enthusiasts report being bitten by their birds. Granted, a bite from a budgie, cockatiel or finch does not carry the same shock or damage that a large cockatoo or macaw bite does, but it’s STILL a bite. Why did my bird bite me?

This is the theme for the February ABC meeting – Avian Biting Behavior.

Of all of the challenges of belonging to a companion parrot, being bitten is the most traumatic. The fact that these wonderful animals could even THINK of biting the human who takes care of them is beyond our comprehension. After being bitten, most people believe that their parrot no longer loves them, or is “…out to get them…” in some vengeful avian versus human plot. Former ABC member Joanie Doss says, “…I receive about three good bites a year. This is usually my fault for not following my own advice. My troupe, The Amazing Amazons, is asked daily to do many behaviors that put me in a vulnerable position. Although the Amazing Amazons are known for their performing abilities, they are also known for their good dispositions. As many as 250 people held them after a single performance. In over 10 years of performing, they have never bitten when handled by the public…”

Based on Joanie Doss’ statement, even those who handle birds professionally can expect to be bitten at least a few times. How do you know when your bird is “getting ready” to bite? What do you look for? What does your bird look for from you? Join us at the February meeting and find out the answers to your questions!

Gregory D. Wilkie