04/08/2025
Weekly post for Companion Parrots Re-homed
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It's TAKEOVER TUESDAY with Parrot Ps and Qs!
What is your bird's experience with crates/carriers?
Do they only go into them for a trip to the vet? Or do they associate the carrier with something more positive?
I advocate for ALL birds being trained to VOLUNTARILY go into a carrier, and frequently work with the birds in the re-homing program at Companion Parrots Re-homed on this skill.
What does this mean for us and our birds?
We can put our birds in the car and run errands with them! Try going through the drive-through window with your birds and check out the reaction! I always recommend putting the bird in the middle of the backseat, secured firmly for safety in the event of an accident and away from airbags.
We can take them on outings! Depending on the size of the bird and carrier you might easily be able to carry them OR you might need a stroller or wagon to transport them. Either way, they can go to a park, a trek through your neighborhood, or even to a brewery! If my bird could talk he'd be willing to spill the beans about that last one - or should that be spill the sunflower seeds or walnuts?
If being in a carrier is associated with positive things (exposure to novel stimuli if the bird is comfortable with that, getting to experience nature and not from behind a window, getting favorite treats, being showered outside) then they will choose to go into the carrier.
Think about the amount of enrichment that is possible for the captive bird population from this!
Parrot food for thought!
P.S. I'd love to see your birds in a carrier. Please post below. And if you have a question about this, post it, too. I'll keep an eye out and answer.
Debbie Foster, CPBT-KA and CPBC, can help you learn positive training techniques to use with your parrot and address any behavioral issues.
