COCKATEIL BEHAVIOR

Question
me and my boyfriend just inherited a cockatiel he spent alot of time alone but, when we got him he didn't make to much noise nor was he affectionate. We bought him a new cage,and new toys. His cage was in really bad shape so we bought him a new one he only saw people maybe 1 a month for a period of 2 months until we got him we try to show him affection but, he pecks at us and he doesn't want to come out of his cage. I was wondering how long will it take for him to adjust to us being here.  

Answer
Hi, Carla.  Thanks for posting!

I can't say how long it will take.  Each bird is different and it depends on his past experiences with humans.  If you just inherited this bird, you need to give him some time to adjust to his new surroundings in your home and to get adjusted to you and your boyfriend.  These things don't happen overnight.  If this bird isn't used to being around humans, it might take longer than usual.  Give the bird some space, take things 1 step at a time.  Leave the bird's cage door open and allow him to come out at his own speed...don't force him.  You don't want to force this bird to do anything until he's more comfortable around people.  Otherwise, he won't trust you.  He already mistrusts humans as it is, and you don't want to make matters worse.  Your goal with this bird is for it to trust you and your boyfriend.  When a bird trusts it's humans, you can basically do just about anything with them.

Male tiels aren't usually as affectionate as female tiels.  They are nice birds, but a male's personality is a bit different than a females.  Females are more affectionate, quiet, laid back, etc., whereas males have a beautiful song, are more active in general, etc.

Just take your time with this bird and show him that he has no reason to fear you.  Don't try to catch him inside his cage (he views this as being cornered and his cage should be his space, his territory, his private domain)...allow him to come out on his own when he's ready.

Come back with any additional questions.  My website might be helpful for you if you want to visit:

http://www.angelfire.com/falcon/birdinfo/index.html

Chrys