Amazon body language

[Birdman666]

I'm amazed at how hard Salty likes to be head scratched. He PUSHES his head into my fingers, I get worried I might be damaging his forehead feathers, buy they always seem fine after. Lady, if Kizzy will let you scratch her all like you say, handling her to put the harness on cant be far off.

Salty quivers his wings if he wants to come to someone from off his ceiling chain.

I've got two zons that do the head in the palm of the hand thing... and of course, my greenwing does it as well.

Quivering wings is generally a begging behavior.

 

[Davinchi]

I didn't see this anywhere in the thread, but what is my YNA doing when he takes my finger in his beak, then bobs his head up and down really fast. It seems really hilarious to me, but i don't want to interpret it wrong and promote bad biting behavior.

 

[texsize]

It sounds like the beginning of "feeding you"
It could be the reverse also, trying to get you to "feed him"

That's my guess after having 3 Amazon birds.

texsize

 

[Davinchi]

It sounds like the beginning of "feeding you"
It could be the reverse also, trying to get you to "feed him"

That's my guess after having 3 Amazon birds.

texsize

Well your 3 Amazons up on me, so...lol. I just wanted to make sure it wasnt bad behaviour that I was mistaking for cute stuff. I've only had Paco for about 3 weeks so far and seeing as he is 15 and I am the 3rd owner of him, I was just glad that he started to take to me.

 

[Ladyhawk]

Quivering wings is generally a begging behavior.

Maybe. Usually, when babies quiver their wings to beg, they're sort of crouched with their heads up, making their particular species' begging cry. Kizzy is upright when she does this and it only happens when I pet her head or neck. She doesn't make any noises. However, the idea it's a begging behavior makes more sense than anything I can think of. To me it looks like the head skritch feels so good she can barely stand it...sort of a birdy "skritch orgasm." Yeah, it sounds weird to me, too. So, it could be a begging behavior.

 

[Skinner36]

My 9 year old red lored amazon does all of these things , but i dont know if im doing my duties to keep my bird happy , she never wants me around , always barking at me and looks like she is fixing to lunge at me . Im the only person around her . But ive only had her for 2 weeks . But my main concern is she wont step up she tries to bite me even if i have food , what am i doing wrong

 

[Birdman666]

I didn't see this anywhere in the thread, but what is my YNA doing when he takes my finger in his beak, then bobs his head up and down really fast. It seems really hilarious to me, but i don't want to interpret it wrong and promote bad biting behavior.

THAT'S FEED ME!!!

It's a begging behavior. Your bird is trying to coax you into regurging for him...

 

[Birdman666]

My 9 year old red lored amazon does all of these things , but i dont know if im doing my duties to keep my bird happy , she never wants me around , always barking at me and looks like she is fixing to lunge at me . Im the only person around her . But ive only had her for 2 weeks . But my main concern is she wont step up she tries to bite me even if i have food , what am i doing wrong

Do a separate thread on this and I will try to help you. My guess is your bird isn't tame, and wasn't handled much.

 

[Mindy]

I've been asked to contribute my take on amazon body language. So here it is. This is by no means an exhaustive list. If anyone thinks of things I've left out, and I'm sure there is, feel free to add to this.

Amazons more than any other parrot use body language to communicate. You can usually tell just by looking at them what they are going to do before they do it. People call them “moody” but it’s more like they are 100% honest about their feelings, and they can be rather “opinionated” at times. Sometimes that means, “Sorry, I’m just not interested right now.” When they tell you something like that, especially if they continue to tell you that, and you ignore it, then don't be surprised if they bite.

Wing flapping: (Usually accompanied by squawking.) If your bird is standing upright, and flapping at you, it generally means: “HEY DUMMY, I’M TRYING TO GET YOUR ATTENTION HERE, AND I’M GETTING FRUSTRATED BECAUSE YOU DIDN’T NOTICE.”

Recoil in Horror: (Usually accompanied by growling) This one is unmistakable. Fear, bordering on panic. It means (a) get that thing away from me; or if there is no object involved, (b) get that person away from me. (Often just before, “I’m either going to fly away OR I’m going to bite the crap outta someone. I just haven’t decided which yet.”) Show them something new, and this is usually their first reaction. Give it five minutes, it'll probably change to "That's mine" once they get used to the offending person or object.

Displacement/lunge biting: Here’s a clue! See this thing?! That’s gonna be your [INSERT BODY PART HERE] if you continue to do what, it looks like you’re planning to do. Just back away from the cage, and no one gets hurt. AMAZONS DON’T BLUFF. (That would be macaws.) This is not a test. It is a simple statement of fact. I am telling you right now, I WILL BITE YOU. DON’T YOU DARE LOOK SURPRISED WHEN IT HAPPENS… You were warned!

Big Bird: This is the closest amazons come to "bluffing." Wings spread. Making themselves look bigger. Standing straight up. "I'm the big bad birdie... DO NOT mess with me." They're not actually fixing to attack you. They just want to look menacing. And they are only bluffing to a point. If he's doing that, I wouldn't be in a hurry to stick your fingers within striking range. Normally they just turn in slow circles with their wings open. As long as you're not aggressive, they won't be either.

Head down and/or head feathers raised Scratch my head.

Wing flipping. I’m kinda tired and I find that annoying. I’m ignoring you now.

Wing flipping accompanied by eye pinning Apparently you don’t take a hint. We passed annoying a few minutes ago. I’m starting to get angry now. WHAT PART OF LEAVE ME ALONE DID YOU NOT UNDERSTAND?!

Poofed up, one leg up I am calm, content and relaxed. (And I’d like to stay that way, thank you.)

Standing straight up, foot up Pick me up!

Leaning forward, wings quivering I am in launch mode. Pick me up NOW, or I’ll come to you.

Strutting around in a STRAIGHT UP stance, eyes pinning, tail flaired, while whistling/chattering, and making silly noises at you: THIS is the amazon happy to see you dance. Interaction is required. I need it now. DO NOT IGNORE ME OR I’LL BECOME VERY, VERY UNHAPPY…

[WARNING: YOUR BIRD IS NOW APPROACHING AMAZON OVERLOAD. EVEN THOUGH THE BIRD IS HAPPY TO SEE YOU AND IS CRAVING INTERACTION, HE IS ALSO “IN THE ZONE.” HE WANTS TO PLAY. AND HOW DO AMAZONS PLAY WITH THEIR TOYS?! THAT’S RIGHT, THEY ATTACK THEM. BITING IS NOT A "MOOD SWING" AT THAT POINT. IT'S AN OVERSTIMULATED PLAY THING. Your bird does not suddenly hate you. Give him a second to calm down before picking him up. He'll be fine. Pick him up in the middle of the display? He might bite, even though he's happy to see you. Not because he's moody, but because he is THAT wound up...]

Strutting around in a HUNCHED OVER stance, shoulders hunched, head down, beak open, eyes pinning, tail flaired, WINGS HELD SLIGHTLY UP AND POSSIBLY QUIVERING, while chattering TERRITORIAL INTRUSION noises at you: THIS is the AMAZON LINE OF DEATH DANCE. Often mistaken for the amazon “happy to see you” dance, it means the exact opposite. And the main difference between the two is posture: Hunched over, head down, wings up.

You are intruding on my territory, and I will defend it to the death. Take one step closer and I will rip your lips off….

Defcon 1: Strutting and displaying.

Defcon 2: Lunge mode while strutting and displaying.

Defcon 3: Wings quivering. IF THIS ONE HAS PROGRESSED TO THE WING QUIVERING STAGE THAT BIRD IS IN LAUNCH MODE, AND HE’S AIMING AT YOUR FACE… [Take IMMEDIATE steps to protect it.]

There is no Defcon 4, and there will be no further warning before launch sequence is initiated. The order to remove your lips has already been given! Seriously, defuse this one before you get to the wing quivering stage...

There are also individual facial expressions:

The quizzical look — What’s that? I’m interested. (That doesn’t necessarily mean I want it anywhere near me, until I figure out what the heck that is…)

The “is that for me” look. (Which means, Both GIMME IT! And WATCH YOUR FINGERS WHEN YOU DO!)

My bird has a “come hither” look. That means pick me up, and scratch my head.

My bird also has a “go away” look which needs no explanation.

My bird has a “I’m getting jealous” look. Which essentially means, you’re with me at the moment, don’t make me pinch you.

My bird has a “I’m coming with you look. No really, I am, you’re not leaving here without me. Dammit You get back here and pick me up!” (That last part is no longer a look. It’s a look combined with a rather distinctive flock call.)

The birdie smile, also needs no explanation.

How about head down beak open and close making kind of like a pop pop pop sound?

 

[SailBoat]

Your Question: "How about head down beak open and close making kind of like a pop pop pop sound?"

Please consider Starting a separate Thread.

In addition to basic behaviors noted in this Thread. Each Amazon will develop their own interactions, behaviors and body language that is part of their family.

Your Question requires far more information regarding the who, how, what, where and when that needs to be within its own Thread.

 

[Mindy]

Your Question: "How about head down beak open and close making kind of like a pop pop pop sound?"

Please consider Starting a separate Thread.

In addition to basic behaviors noted in this Thread. Each Amazon will develop their own interactions, behaviors and body language that is part of their family.

Your Question requires far more information regarding the who, how, what, where and when that needs to be within its own Thread.

I'm sorry, I'm not understanding how a question about Amazon body language doesn't belong in this thread. A. I am new to the species and B. I feel like other people asked specific questions about their bird's body language and got feedback.

 

[SailBoat]

Your Question: "How about head down beak open and close making kind of like a pop pop pop sound?"

Please consider Starting a separate Thread.

In addition to basic behaviors noted in this Thread. Each Amazon will develop their own interactions, behaviors and body language that is part of their family.

Your Question requires far more information regarding the who, how, what, where and when that needs to be within its own Thread.

I'm sorry, I'm not understanding how a question about Amazon body language doesn't belong in this thread. A. I am new to the species and B. I feel like other people asked specific questions about their bird's body language and got feedback.

A. You are new here and as you say, new to this Species. A 1.5 year old is just beginning to use it's hardwired Body Languages, which this Thread provides understanding of their meanings.
B. If the Amazon is older and the specific question is regarding those hardwired Wing and tail Feather positioning, Wing placement, Body, Neck, Head placement /movement, plus the feathers of those areas and last but not least the variations of the eyes in color commonly referred to as Pinning, than, Yes, it is a question that is support by this Thread.

What little you have provided seems to be begging or like response of a young parrot. As stated, far more information, as noted above, is needed to define what your Amazon is doing. Without more information and input from several individuals, including those with specific experience with young parrots, a specific answer is not likely within this Thread.

No one is being mean, only trying to get your 'Thread' in front of individuals more likely to provide the clarity that you want.

I hope this helps you understand why.

 

[AmberAndOscar]

This makes me feel a lot better about Oscar. He seems to be quite content and happy unless I approach him in his cage trying to touch him. Even then he only does the Displacement/lunge biting, it is only a small nip though

 

[Happy2bme]

Things are looking up! My birdie boy is letting me scratch his head... eyes roll back like a shark ready to go! Lifts right leg holds my finger and wants to step up. But he's bit me so badly and so often I won't let him step up any more. Baby birdie steps for the Mama. Tanks for all your help understanding the birdie who lets me live gere

 

[DiscoDuck]

I didn't see this anywhere in the thread, but what is my YNA doing when he takes my finger in his beak, then bobs his head up and down really fast. It seems really hilarious to me, but i don't want to interpret it wrong and promote bad biting behavior.

THAT'S FEED ME!!!

It's a begging behavior. Your bird is trying to coax you into regurging for him...

I have a GWM who occasionally who does this. Not so much now at nearly 3 years of age. If I let him go on too long he regurgitates. I think he is trying to feed me!

 

[Anita1]

Brilliant post xx

 

[jousze]

I've been asked to contribute my take on amazon body language. So here it is. This is by no means an exhaustive list. If anyone thinks of things I've left out, and I'm sure there is, feel free to add to this.

Amazons more than any other parrot use body language to communicate. You can usually tell just by looking at them what they are going to do before they do it. People call them “moody” but it’s more like they are 100% honest about their feelings, and they can be rather “opinionated” at times. Sometimes that means, “Sorry, I’m just not interested right now.” When they tell you something like that, especially if they continue to tell you that, and you ignore it, then don't be surprised if they bite.

Wing flapping: (Usually accompanied by squawking.) If your bird is standing upright, and flapping at you, it generally means: “HEY DUMMY, I’M TRYING TO GET YOUR ATTENTION HERE, AND I’M GETTING FRUSTRATED BECAUSE YOU DIDN’T NOTICE.”

Recoil in Horror: (Usually accompanied by growling) This one is unmistakable. Fear, bordering on panic. It means (a) get that thing away from me; or if there is no object involved, (b) get that person away from me. (Often just before, “I’m either going to fly away OR I’m going to bite the crap outta someone. I just haven’t decided which yet.”) Show them something new, and this is usually their first reaction. Give it five minutes, it'll probably change to "That's mine" once they get used to the offending person or object.

Displacement/lunge biting: Here’s a clue! See this thing?! That’s gonna be your [INSERT BODY PART HERE] if you continue to do what, it looks like you’re planning to do. Just back away from the cage, and no one gets hurt. AMAZONS DON’T BLUFF. (That would be macaws.) This is not a test. It is a simple statement of fact. I am telling you right now, I WILL BITE YOU. DON’T YOU DARE LOOK SURPRISED WHEN IT HAPPENS… You were warned!

Big Bird: This is the closest amazons come to "bluffing." Wings spread. Making themselves look bigger. Standing straight up. "I'm the big bad birdie... DO NOT mess with me." They're not actually fixing to attack you. They just want to look menacing. And they are only bluffing to a point. If he's doing that, I wouldn't be in a hurry to stick your fingers within striking range. Normally they just turn in slow circles with their wings open. As long as you're not aggressive, they won't be either.

Head down and/or head feathers raised Scratch my head.

Wing flipping. I’m kinda tired and I find that annoying. I’m ignoring you now.

Wing flipping accompanied by eye pinning Apparently you don’t take a hint. We passed annoying a few minutes ago. I’m starting to get angry now. WHAT PART OF LEAVE ME ALONE DID YOU NOT UNDERSTAND?!

Poofed up, one leg up I am calm, content and relaxed. (And I’d like to stay that way, thank you.)

Standing straight up, foot up Pick me up!

Leaning forward, wings quivering I am in launch mode. Pick me up NOW, or I’ll come to you.

Strutting around in a STRAIGHT UP stance, eyes pinning, tail flaired, while whistling/chattering, and making silly noises at you: THIS is the amazon happy to see you dance. Interaction is required. I need it now. DO NOT IGNORE ME OR I’LL BECOME VERY, VERY UNHAPPY…

[WARNING: YOUR BIRD IS NOW APPROACHING AMAZON OVERLOAD. EVEN THOUGH THE BIRD IS HAPPY TO SEE YOU AND IS CRAVING INTERACTION, HE IS ALSO “IN THE ZONE.” HE WANTS TO PLAY. AND HOW DO AMAZONS PLAY WITH THEIR TOYS?! THAT’S RIGHT, THEY ATTACK THEM. BITING IS NOT A "MOOD SWING" AT THAT POINT. IT'S AN OVERSTIMULATED PLAY THING. Your bird does not suddenly hate you. Give him a second to calm down before picking him up. He'll be fine. Pick him up in the middle of the display? He might bite, even though he's happy to see you. Not because he's moody, but because he is THAT wound up...]

Strutting around in a HUNCHED OVER stance, shoulders hunched, head down, beak open, eyes pinning, tail flaired, WINGS HELD SLIGHTLY UP AND POSSIBLY QUIVERING, while chattering TERRITORIAL INTRUSION noises at you: THIS is the AMAZON LINE OF DEATH DANCE. Often mistaken for the amazon “happy to see you” dance, it means the exact opposite. And the main difference between the two is posture: Hunched over, head down, wings up.

You are intruding on my territory, and I will defend it to the death. Take one step closer and I will rip your lips off….

Defcon 1: Strutting and displaying.

Defcon 2: Lunge mode while strutting and displaying.

Defcon 3: Wings quivering. IF THIS ONE HAS PROGRESSED TO THE WING QUIVERING STAGE THAT BIRD IS IN LAUNCH MODE, AND HE’S AIMING AT YOUR FACE… [Take IMMEDIATE steps to protect it.]

There is no Defcon 4, and there will be no further warning before launch sequence is initiated. The order to remove your lips has already been given! Seriously, defuse this one before you get to the wing quivering stage...

There are also individual facial expressions:

The quizzical look — What’s that? I’m interested. (That doesn’t necessarily mean I want it anywhere near me, until I figure out what the heck that is…)

The “is that for me” look. (Which means, Both GIMME IT! And WATCH YOUR FINGERS WHEN YOU DO!)

My bird has a “come hither” look. That means pick me up, and scratch my head.

My bird also has a “go away” look which needs no explanation.

My bird has a “I’m getting jealous” look. Which essentially means, you’re with me at the moment, don’t make me pinch you.

My bird has a “I’m coming with you look. No really, I am, you’re not leaving here without me. Dammit You get back here and pick me up!” (That last part is no longer a look. It’s a look combined with a rather distinctive flock call.)

The birdie smile, also needs no explanation.

That’s amazing, thanks for this post!!
By the way I’d like to know what do you think it means for your amazon when they growl, they do like “grrrrr”.
And also mine sometimes does like “k k kk k” I don’t really know how to write it but it’s like really sharp noises and he usually does either “k k” or “k k k”. He does this during some minutes and then he goes back into the “whistling”.

 

[SailBoat]

That’s amazing, thanks for this post!!
By the way I’d like to know what do you think it means for your amazon when they growl, they do like “grrrrr”.
And also mine sometimes does like “k k kk k” I don’t really know how to write it but it’s like really sharp noises and he usually does either “k k” or “k k k”. He does this during some minutes and then he goes back into the “whistling”.[/QUOTE]

Some Amazons growl as a warning: You're entering my space without asking first. Others growl as a acknowledgement of your entering they their space. Some Amazons will growl when someone else enters you and their joint area (together time). And, just to add confusion to it all, some Amazons just growl. It becomes your responsibility to determine when you Amazon growls and in what content.

Your Amazon maybe using this as a 'contact' call or any number of other possible applications. Pay attention as to when you Amazon is using the sound and look for possible links. The range can be from practicing new words to playing a tone off a wall.


Welcome to the Wonderful World of Amazons! Life is never boring! After all Amazon's Rule!

 

[Birdman666]

Again: Context.

Growl is a warning, when they are scared or feel threatened.

It's also a play noise.

It's also a noise they make sometimes when they wanted something, and didn't get it.

It could mean "But I don't want a bath!"

 

[texsize]

My Bingo growl’s exclusively when playing.
When playing with me on his back he is mostly gentle until he gets to the over-stimulated point.

When playing with toys he can get quite violent.
Never heard him growl any other time..