Parrotlet

Question
Hi,

I just brought a Male Green Pacific Parrotlet home about 5 days ago. This little guy is very scared of me. He shies away from my hands and flies around the cage when I try to get him out. I let him settle in for a couple of days, talking quitely to him and just letting my hand rest beside him without touching him. I know it's going to take a while before he trusts me, but my concern is that he does not touch his toys at all or show any kind of real activity. He has progressed to whistling now and he moves about from one perch to another, which is a relief, but that's it. He is eating and drinking well. When I take him out of the cage he walks about, but tries to hide under things when I go near him. Yesterday he showed a little less fear by actually letting me give him some millet. He only ripped off a piece and then showed no interest. He doesn't seem to know what treats are either. Is this normal behaviour? I had a lovebird before, so I am used to a very vocal bird that destroyed toys. Maybe I just have a quiet bird? Is there any advice you can give on how to train a bird that seems to not be toy or treat motivated?
I bought him from a pet a store. They couldn't tell me exactly how old is, but estimated a few months.
Thanks for your help. :)


Answer
Hi Michelle!
Thank you for asking my advice!

This is not an uncommon issue with parrotlets and I find there is not a lot of training advice out there for them, resulting in a lot of parrotlets being re homed.

You seem to be doing great so far!  As long as he is eating and drinking I would not be too concerned.  As he becomes accustomed to you and his environment he will develop an interest in toys and treats.  Keep offering them to him, all birds love millet!

Keep working with him by getting him comfortable with your hands by just placing it in the cage without touching him, once he settles down remove your hand.  Talk to him in a calm and quiet voice, play music for him, whistle ect...

As far as training goes I would recommend clicker training, it can be very effective with birds.  Consistency is a must!  

Best of Luck!
Sincerely
Danielle