We have an 18 mos old tiel who has started manipulating the paper
in the bottom of it's cage, making weird little noises and posturing when
near it's cage. Also being very defensive when we approach the cage in
which she/he? sleeps. Is this bird probably a female and is this nesting
behavior? We have no other bird in the house.
Leslie
Dear Leslie,
Surely sounds like you have a hen. I've seen hens "manipulate" the paper using a couple of techniques. Some hens methodically fold back the corners, while others just tear it to shreds.
As these hens become sexually mature, their natural instincts begin to appear, even though a bird of the opposite sex may not be present. You shouldn't be too surprised when one day you discover an egg has been laid. The defensive attitude is also part of it.