-
ability to
entertain oneself
-
freedom to
make choices regarding eating, playing, bathing and sleeping
-
ability to
self-reward by choosing activities that are pleasurable and fun
-
ability to
channel their energy appropriately
How do you help your parrot develop of sense of
independence?
A parrot develops most of it's sense of
independence when it is very young. It is very important to avoid
giving excessive attention to a bird when it is a baby (i.e., always
cuddling it). This kind of attention does not meet a young bird's
emotional needs and will interfere with the development of independent
behaviors. What this kind of attention will do is create a very
needy bird that is over-dependent on it's owner and prone to incessant screaming
for attention.
From a very young age, a bird should be provided
with safe opportunities for play, exploration, privacy and decision making
within it's cage. It mostly comes down to providing your bird with plenty
of opportunities to make choices. Variety is the key!
-
Providing
a wide variety of
toys
that incorporate a range of colors, textures and functions will expand their
learning opportunities, increase curiosity and promote exploration of their
environment, develop confidence and reduce fear of new objects.
-
Exposing
your bird to a varied and healthy diet at a young age will allow them to
make food choices and will foster long term flexibility in their eating
habits.
-
Providing
a variety of
perches and
hideaways will give your bird the opportunity to
make choices as to where to hang out and sleep within it's cage.
Your bird's natural inquisitive behaviors
will be stimulated when he is confronted with mental challenges and plenty of
opportunities to make choices.
Keeping your bird
engaged in these activities will help to prevent the development of
stereotypical behaviors.
Parrots also need to have
their choices respected when it comes to developing relationships. Rule
number one, you can not force a relationship with your bird, train by earning
trust and through the consistent thoughtful application of
positive guidance.
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