Indian ringneck parakeets are one of the most popular pet birds in the world. They're cuddly and intelligent, yet not as common as dogs or cats. When you think about adopting a pet, do you consider an Indian Ringneck?
Indian Ringnecks can be very cuddling pets-especially if they've been hand-fed from a young age and have grown up with human contact. They are also known for their strong ability to mimic sounds which have contributed to them being able to speak back words to their owners. These fascinating creatures are ideal for homes with lots of space and time who want a pet that is energetic but easy enough to care for on their own. They're smart too!
A Tame Bird Is A Cuddly Bird
If you want your Indian Ringneck to be more affectionate with you this must start when they are a baby bird. Like all companion birds, they need taming and a lot of human handling to become cuddly with you.
Here are some taming tips to ensure your bird is a cuddly one:
- Start handling your bird from day 1 and don't stop until they are used to being held in the palm of your hand for as long as you like.
- Feed them treats from your hand and praise them when they take it from you. Treats are a great way to get your bird used to being handled-especially if you have more than one bird in the house.
- Put your hand out of sight at first so they think there's food underneath it then quickly pull your hand up with treats on top. Pet birds learn to associate your hand with good things so do this often. This way, you'll get your bird used to seeing you as a great source of very yummy treats.
- When your birds seem relaxed around your hands and fingers begin gently touching their feet, legs, wings, or tail feathers. Praise them when they don't move away and talk in a soft tone so they get used to you as a familiar voice.
- As your bird becomes more comfortable with gentle touching, slowly begin to move up their body towards their head. Get them used to this by slowly increasing the time they spend thus exposed until they are OK with you touching their head and cheeks.
My Indian Ringneck Is Aggressive & Doesn't Like Me
If you have been trying to tame your bird but you still can't hold them and they are aggressive or don't like being held then it is highly likely that they are not happy or do not feel safe. It is also possible they were not/are not being hand-fed enough.
Though I would not recommend removing food for long periods of time, you could try removing its food dish for a couple of hours and then feeding it from your hand. Do this often enough and gradually, your bird will grow to trust your hand.
Conclusion: Are Indian Ringnecks Cuddly?
If you want your Indian Ringneck to be more cuddly with you this must start when they are a baby bird. Like all companion birds, they need taming and a lot of human handling to become affectionate with you. Try the taming tips above and remember to be consistent and persistent with it or your bird can forget.
To reiterate, start handling your bird from day 1, and don't stop until they are used to being held or standing on your finger. Feed them treats from your hand and praise them when they take them from you. Treats are a great way to get your bird used to being handled-especially if you have more than one bird in the house.
Over time, your bird will begin to come to you, climb up your arm onto your shoulder and display other signs of affection.
