Expert: Teresa Weingart - 11/16/2011

Question
Hi

Sorry to trouble you but wondered if you could shed some light?  I have a cockatiel who is approximately 14 years old.  By way of background - He has had a couple of homes (I don't think he was very well looked after in one of those) then he went to my sister-in-laws and now he lives with me and my husband.  We've had him for about 3 years now.  When we got him, he had a tiny cage.  I don't agree with caged birds but he would not come out at all and just huddled next to his mirror.  So, I got him a brand new big cage.  It took him about 5 days but he got used to it and loves it now.  I never close the cage and he sits on his top perch peering over.  He's not very friendly but we trained him and he used to come out and sit on our shoulders - he has now stopped doing that and just goes for our hands if we go near him.  We had a baby 19 months ago and Charlie loves her to bits and sings to her and comes down his cage to see her when she goes over.  Only her though.  So, recently, Charlie has started to scream continuously.  He doesn't stop.  Last night he started dive bombing me!  He did it about 5 times and actually went for me, not over my head.  I've tried covering him up (which does quiten him down) but he screams again when I take the cover off.  I'm wondering if he's going a bit mad with his age or is he jealous of my relationship with my daughter?  I don't know.  I was wondering if you could offer any thoughts?  We have recently moved him to a different corner of the room.  Could it be that?

Any help would be appreciated.

Many thanks

Lindsey

Answer
Hello Lindsey -

Thank you for sending your question.

Sounds like Charlie needs a time-out :)

Cockatiels in general can become very attached to their initial owner or surroundings and can
be extremely sensitive to anything (or anyone) "new."   Cockatiels are also extremely smart and have very good memories.  It's always easier for a baby bird to acclimate to a new environment than it is for one that is 14 years old.  

That said, here are some things you can try now that he is with you:

- Obviously don't scream or yell at him (I'm sure it's tempting sometimes).

- Some Cockatiels actually need a lot (a lot, as in several hours) of darkness.  This is ok as long as their not neglected.  For now, try keep him in the cage more frequently than out, and talk to him soothingly even if he doesn't respond or gives you a suspicious look.  Do this often, a couple of weeks at a minimum, and try to do it on a regular schedule.  Slowly work up to a schedule of having him out of the cage for longer periods.

- Try having a radio or music recording (soothing music) when you're not in the room.

- Make sure he has some sort of treat --spray millet is good -- whether he is inside or outside the cage.  I suggest starting off giving it to him while he's inside for now.  Offer it frequently and whistle to him when you give it to him.

- This may sound silly, but make sure his mirror is big enough.  Male Cockatiels will sometimes spend hours talking to themselves in the mirror (females generally care less about their image).  Some pet stores sell three-way mirrors so the bird can see himself from multiple angles.  I've had to put a make up mirror on top of the cage when I have mine out.  They completely ignore me but love to talk to themselves.

-Check his beak and nails.  If these aren't trim, it makes them uncomfortable
Make sure he has the proper perches and chew toys.

Once he is calmed down, and this might be months from now, try spraying him with water using a little spray bottle. Start slowly, one or two sprays.   Most Cockatiels love this and will open their wings while you do it.

--Have him checked by a vet if you think he might be sick

Doesn't sound like Charlie is going crazy.  Just back track and sort of "start over" and I think he'll adapt.

Good luck to you.

TAW