Caique Behavior Question

[deedee]

Hi, I just adopted 2 caiques. Their owner passed. I was told they are between 4 and 5 years old. Supposedly a male and female. They both came out of their travel cage very easily. They do know the step up command and are good eaters, etc. The female is very docile and wants to just be with everyone and is super gentle. The male seems like he wants to be with us all of the time and often steps up and comes out, however, has bitten several of us super hard. Yes, he has drawn blood. He is also loud in comparison.

So, I guess what I am asking is this just a difference of personality? Any suggestions to help curb his biting and noise? Any help would be great! Thanks!

 

[MonicaMc]

Good Bird Inc Parrot Training Talk: Respecting the Bite
Living With Parrots Cage Free: Bite
A “Bird Attacking” Question « Lara Joseph
A Question About an Issue with Nipping « Lara Joseph
RP - Biting


Those links may help. I have found that with my mitred conure, the more training and exercise he gets, the better behaved he typically is.

 

[JerseyWendy]

Give them time, please. They are probably still quite uneasy because they are in a brand new environment. New home, new sights, new sounds, new routine, new everything.

And yes, Caiques can be drastically different in their behavior, and their behavior can change in a blink of an eye (actually, a lot of parrots are like this )

How are you housing them? Together, in the same cage, or in separate cages? If housed together, hormones will play a huge factor in how they act.

 

[deedee]

They came housed together. I had to change the cage though because the one they came in is in pretty bad condition. I set up a ton of toys, etc. I have to take them to get wings clipped, etc. I am thinking that I might have to get a second cage. I know it will take time. Just want to make sure I am doing the best I can.

 

[Irishj9]

I agree with JerseyWendy that it is too soon to tell and you must let them settle in. But heres 2C worth to think about.

My guys play VERY vigorously. Maybe the male is provoking a play session with you?. Fingers, my SUPER TAME guy will do this often. he LOOOOVES play fighting.

Second, dont overlook the female. I have 4 of them. None of them are gentle. She may just be reticient as she settles in. My 4 have BIG ATTITUDES, and will clearly show me who is boss if I step on their toes lol

JP