Height Dominance Behavior Training

[Spiritbird]

OK parrot ladies and gentlemen. Here is a chance to give you opinions. I will start out the thead by saying I think the height dominence theory is old and worn out. I have been told by people with parrot knowledge greater than mine and also read that it can be detrimental to the relationship with your bird because you would be fighting the parrots natural instinct to seek out the higher places to perch. I have a very tall parrot stand that Rosie stands on frequently and she in no way behaves alpha.

Opinions welcome!!

 

[Riley's mom]

I have heard and read the same thing and I'm not really buying it either. Riley's cage is about 5ft tall and then with the playtop makes it even higher. I have no trouble getting him off the top of the playstand. Even tho I can't reach him, all I have to say it "come on down" and he does.

 

[Auggie's Dad]

The whole idea of dominance is the most over used and misused idea in all of pet ownership. Animals do often have dominance hierarchies (as do humans) - but it is just (almost) never relevant to situations between owners and pets.

Anyone have tall kids with behavioral problems? Would anyone suspect that wearing stilts would help the problem? 'Your son is misbehaving because he thinks he is dominant due to his height.'

A load of crap.

 

[caliopi]

I am so frustrated! I really wish I had found this forum before I bought my first parrot!

Ever since I saw my first macaw I wanted one and I did so much research on them but the one thing I kept reading was " Never put a macaw on your shoulder as they will fight for dominance" . There were warnings about putting them on your shoulder regarding the risks of the screeching being able to burst ear drums and the risks of serious bites to the facial areas as well but this height dominance was repeatedly an issue.

As I really wanted a parrot I could walk around on my shoulder these warnings made me change my mind and I opted for an Eclectus instead and I would never regret getting Puffin, I love him like mad but I have to wonder how many people do not pick a bigger parrot because of all the outdated or incorrect information.