training not to bite

Question
I have an Indian ring neck, which is quite moody ( I'm told this is normal) and it can be aggressive when you try to pick it up. How can I train it not to bite and to hop on my hand with out much fuss?  

Answer
Hi Michael,
Although I don't have any experience with Indian Ringnecks, I have read up on them, being one of my other fav parrots. And, most parrots behaviour is the same, give or take. As far as aggression goes, being owned by a Quaker, I know how difficult it can be to put yourself in the position of the dominant one. That's the key. Really with all parrots. Is being the dominant one of the 'flock' in their eyes. By doing that, being where parrots live in social communities, and have a pecking order, you gain and maintain control. Now, it does take time and patience. Trust is really the main key here. And sometimes, depending on the bird, that trust takes times. I always suggest that people observe their birds, to gain some sort of sense of their personality. I think Indian Ringnecks might be right up there with Quakers. It's said that Quakers are one of the most territorial birds when it comes to their cages, and never to attempt to handle them while in their cage. Well, Michael, I'm here to dispell that myth. For, I can do it. What you need to do, is always show your bird that you are in control, calmly and deliberately, and even if he/she "pops" at you, you don't care. Reprimand, of course, but always try not to pull back. With some aggressive parrots, ONE pullback from you means they win. It sort of strokes their ego. hehe What you might want to do is work with him with a training perch/stick. Get him used to being up on that, always using the command STEP UP, in a definate, but calm manner. It's not volume that is important, its how 'matter of fact' you sound. Always sound confident. And, always, always, always praise! I can't impress upon that too much. A parrot is very good at mirroring your moods. If you are commanding, they will take you seriously. If you are excited over something good they do, they feel this also. Using a perching stick (a dowel works fine), press it gently between his belly and his feet, sort of gently pushing back on it, forcing him to either come up, or fall off. They will usually opt to come up. Once up, get VERY excited, and praise him. Once you get him to do that, then try using your hand. I would do this away from his cage, though. Parrots on or in their cage display a territorial behaviour. It's a natural instinct. Away from his cage, he feels a little bit more 'insecure', and is more apt to behave the way you want him too. I hope this helps you some, Michael, I could go on for pages and pages and pages here. I'll stop here, let you digest this, and maybe give this a try. If you need further advice, please ask. And, I'll do my best to try to help you both out.
Best regards,
Linnie :)