Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 3/21/2007

Question
Hi Chris,
I have raised many parakeets in my long life and I know each has its own peculiarities. My latest one, about 18 months old) has its own cage (three levels tall) and I am home most of the day (retired).
I decided to get a small budgie mirror two weeks ago and Rocco (the bird) has become 100 fixated. He sits on the perch next to the mirror all day long and no longer plays with his toys.
Moreover, despite being carefully hand trained, he has become more agressive when I put my hand in to fetch him on my finger. So... I have a dilemma. If I remove the mirror, I might depress Rocco (unless he forgets after a short while). If I leave it there, his immobility and fixation will continue. If I remove it and replace it every few days, he might become neurotic.
What are your thoughts.
Regards,
Richard

Answer
Hi, Richard.  Thanks for posting!

Your budgie thinks the bird in the mirror is real and he has taken this "bird" for a mate.  He is aggressive toward you now because he has a new "friend."  You are a threat to this new relationship!  If I were you, I'd remove the mirror if you want your buddy back again.  Your bird might be depressed and he might not...just depends on his personality.  However, if this bird is tame, it has imprinted on humans, and this tameness will return quickly as long as you show your bird the same attention you had previously.  Remove the mirror ASAP so this new relationship doesn't go any further!

Come back with any additional questions.

Chrys