How to Safely Pick Up and Tame Your African Grey Parrot for the First Time?
Learn the correct method to pick up your African Grey Parrot and build trust in just 5 simple steps. It's a multi-decade commitment, so start right.
Physical Pickup Technique
When picking up your African Grey, support their body with one hand. Place your hand under their chest, just behind their wings, to support their weight. Use your other hand to gently cup their lower back and tail. This position keeps their body aligned and prevents injury.
African Greys have a long tail and a delicate body structure. Avoid picking them up by their tail or wings, as this can cause injury or stress. Keep the bird's body level with your chest to maintain balance and comfort. It's important to lift them at a 45-degree angle to avoid startling them.
Ensure your hands are warm, as cold hands can be a shock to the bird. The ideal temperature for your hands is 70–80°F (21–27°C).
- Support the chest with one hand.
- Cup the lower back and tail with the other hand.
- Keep the bird's body level with your chest.
- Lift at a 45-degree angle.
- Keep hands warm at 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Trust-Building Sequence
Start by spending time near the cage, speaking softly and offering treats. This familiarizes the bird with your presence and scent. Spend at least 30 minutes a day to build trust.
Gradually increase the time you spend near the cage, and slowly reach in to offer treats. Allow the bird to come to you on their terms. The first few weeks should be about 5-10 minutes of interaction.
Once the bird is comfortable, try gently petting their head and neck. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. The petting should be gentle and consistent, for about 5 minutes at a time.
- Start by spending time near the cage.
- Gradually increase interaction time.
- Offer treats and allow the bird to approach you.
- Pet gently for 5 minutes at a time.
- Spend 30 minutes a day building trust.
When Not to Handle
Avoid handling your African Grey immediately after feeding. This can disrupt their digestion and cause stress. Wait at least 2 hours after feeding.
Do not handle them during shedding, as they are more sensitive and prone to injury. The shedding period can last up to 3 weeks.
Respect their need for sleep. Avoid handling them while they are asleep or resting. They need at least 10-12 hours of sleep per night.
Never handle your African Grey when you are rushed or in a hurry. This can lead to accidents and stress for both you and the bird. Always approach handling with a calm demeanor.
- Avoid handling after feeding.
- Do not handle during shedding.
- Respect their need for sleep.
- Do not handle when rushed.
Stress Signals to Watch For
Pay attention to any changes in behavior, such as aggression, hissing, or fluffing up their feathers. These can be signs of stress.
If you notice your African Grey holding their wings close to their body, this could be a sign of stress. This is a natural response to feeling threatened.
A change in appetite or vocalization patterns can also indicate stress. If you notice these changes, it's best to give your bird some space. Monitor their eating habits and vocalizations daily.
- Watch for changes in behavior.
- Look for wing tucking as a stress signal.
- Monitor appetite and vocalization changes.
Handling Frequency
Start with short, daily sessions of about 5-10 minutes to allow your bird to get comfortable with your presence. Consistency is key.
Gradually increase the handling time to about 15-20 minutes per session. This helps build trust and allows for more interaction.
It's important to handle your African Grey at least 3 times a day, but not more than 5 times to avoid overwhelming them. The frequency should be regular and consistent.
- Start with 5-10 minutes of daily handling.
- Increase to 15-20 minutes per session.
- Handle at least 3 times a day, but no more than 5 times.
Keep reading about African Grey Parrot: African Grey Parrot care sheet
Related questions
How often should I handle my African Grey for the first time?
Start with short, daily sessions of about 5-10 minutes to allow your bird to get comfortable with your presence. Gradually increase to 15-20 minutes per session.
What should I do if my African Grey becomes stressed during handling?
If your bird shows signs of stress, such as fluffing up or aggression, stop handling immediately and give them space. Try again later when they are more relaxed.
Can I pick up my African Grey from behind?
No, it's not recommended. Picking up your African Grey from behind can cause them to feel threatened and stressed. Always approach from the front.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your african grey parrot is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.