How to Win with your Eclectus Parrot

Eclectus parrots are very special birds, and to many owners, they are often like small children. They definitely each have their own personalities, but they also have two growing stages that can be quite trying. These growing stages are similar to a human childs terrible twos and puberty. Here is a breakdown of both of these growing stages.

Firstly I refer to what I have called The Terrible Twos which in the case of the Eclectus Parrot happens between approx. 3 to 6 months. During this time they tend to be a bit on the naughty side, seeing just how far they can go with their owner or breeder.

You must not let him get away with anything as this will make him think that he is the boss in the relationship. I don't mean that you must punish him, just be quite firm so that he knows that you are the boss. Some experts have suggested that letting your parrot sit on your shoulder during this time is not a good idea, because physically they will be higher than you, and this may lead them to think that they are the dominant one.

The stage in your parrot's developement is reached at about 9 months old and it is what is sometimes referred to as puberty. They can have very strong emotions which can last for two to three years.

It can be a difficult time for you the owner, as they do have such mood swings, but just like any teenager, they do grow out of it in time, so you just have to ride the storm for a while.

The key to getting through both of these trying times is patience " just as though you were dealing with a human child. However, discipline really isnt suggested, since the Eclectus parrot wont understand it. Instead, encourage more appropriate behavior, and understand that your beloved bird will outgrow these awkward stages, and he will become the bird that youve grown to love once again.

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