I rescued a pet cockatiel from an owner who treated him much like described in 'tiel in Deplorable Conditions. Luckily mine was free. I've begun giving him vitamins, a cuddle bone, fresh water and seeds other than sunflower; all things that he never had. The problem I have is that the bird constantly bites. We have to wear a glove just to change the food and water. When we approach the cage just to talk to him, he freaks out, starts climbing up and down the sides of the cage and he nips at the cage (I'm assuming he wishes that the bars weren't in the way of his beak and my face.
Will he ever be friendly? If so, how long will it take?
His feathers are in pretty bad condition. He also has a bald spot under one of his wings. He picks at it once in a while. How long will it take before his feathers grow back, and begin to look healthy?
Thanks, Kim
Kim,
Whether or not he will ever be friendly depends largely on how much time you
can devote to him and how much patience you can show. Sadly, this guy has
only known one life to this point, so you must begin by letting him know you
mean him no harm. By offering him a complete and nutritional diet you have
begun. (Don't forget the fresh vegetables).
To win the bird's trust will probably be the biggest challenge for you both. We'd start by catching him in a towel. The towel will aid you in controlling him as well as protecting you from his biting. Gently wrap the towel around the bird being careful that the wings are tucked in the proper position and the head free enough to insure there is no obstacle to block it's breathing. With the bird safely wrapped in the towel, sit down with the bird in your lap and begin building that trust by speaking softly and assuredly. You'll need to begin slowly so don't be too eager to rub his head. You will have to repeat this routine several times but eventually he should learn you mean him no harm. We'd recommend you do this every day until you see the results you are looking for. Just remember, he looks at people as his enemy so be patient because it could take a little time.