Playing with Parrots

Playing with Parrots

Playing with your parrot is key to their happiness and makes them a better adjusted companion.  It will help you bond to play interactively with your bird.  You will keep your older parrot more mentally sharp and physically active by playing games.  Playing can the highlight of their day-interacting and getting attention from their human.

Surprisingly, parrots love to hear us laugh.  Some will laugh with you.  Actually as they learn to laugh, parrots will even call to you by laughing to request playing.

They, like most animals like praise.  So, remember to praise and tell your pet you love them.  Stroke them lovingly.

The Moluccan Cackatoo is considered the neediest of all parrots.  They are often not independent, nor do they entertain themselves well.   Playing with these birds is very important.  Owners who have began interactive play with these pets say that their birds are happier, less needy, and more independent.

Repeated playing of the same game with your parrot will help develop their skills in that game.  Try and determine what your birds skills are, and play games that help them tune that skill.  Your pet will feel accomplished and be happier.

Games to play with your bird:

Koosh ball toss, or fetch and catch.  You can also use a small soft stuffed toy too.  Play catch back in forth.  Many birds love the ball even if they can't toss it.  When you toss it, toss it a few inches to the side of the bird.

Parrot Surprise box- place parrot treats or favorite toys in a drawer or box that the bird can get into.   Then let him/her find them.

Singing with your parrot-try holding your bird and singing.  Raise the bird up high during some of the song, and swing him/her during other parts.  Make it fun.

Roller coaster-hold your bird carefully and walk fast through the house and show him/her all types of visuals to engage their minds. Just go easy on them to not make them ill.

Blinking game-blink at them and see if they learn to blink at you.

Copy Cat-or should I say Copy Bird-mimic their behavior and see if they learn to mimic or copy you.

Peek a boo-cover the bird with a light towel and lift the towel saying peek a boo

Teach them to lay on their back in your lap.  You can tickle their tummies or give them toys to fight with upside down.

Finger Walker-Tap your fingers on the table and walk your fingers towards the bird and then either pet them, or tickle their tummy.

Straws on the bed:  If you're willing, take the bird up on your bed, probably with a sheet down over your bedspread.  Dump out some straws and play with him/her.

Handshake- when the bird offers you it's foot, shake it, and set it back down.  Try and teach your bird to wave, or kiss their foot.

Let your bird enjoy the outdoors.  Take it out with a harness.  Talk with your bird as you explore the world.

Rip and Tear-buy some tissue paper and let him/her tear it up and make a mess.  Tear it up along with them.

Spoon feeding-try to see if they will enjoy eating from a spoon.  Realize they will not do this well, and when it spills, laugh and enjoy it with the bird.

Kissing-You may find as you play, your pet will lean over and give you a kiss.

Remember to have fun, praise, and laugh.  Enjoy your pet !