I have a question about tail flaring

[LadySiobhan]

My pionus that I got about three weeks ago will flare is tail while perched on my hand and on the odd occasion outside his cage. He sometimes does it while strutting on his cage. I know of the pionus strut, which is quite funny and adorable and I know not touch him during this, but when he is perched on my hand doing this is it excitement, aggression, or something else? He will do it when I am first home from work when I have him out, on his shower perch on occasion, and sometimes when we are just walking around. He has been very good about stepping up, is about 15-18 months old, and has allowed head scratching and such.

 

[MustLoveAnimals]

I know that this sort of body language in Amazon's often means that they could bite. I notice this in my Zon when she gets overexcited.

 

[Scott]

My Goffins frequently flare their tails - it seems somewhat coincident with the raising of a crest! There are plenty of Pionus folks on the forum who may have a better species-specific explanation.

 

[RavensGryf]

I believe that just like in Amazons, it shows excitement. This excitement CAN lead to getting bit. But it's really hard to determine what exactly he's doing without a video Just be careful during these times.

 

[Delfin]

Delfin does this when we give him a shower. Sometimes when I get home from work. I believe that he is really happy to see me. Mulawa is now fanning her tail feathers then lifts her wings up over her body, puts her wings down and makes a vocal noise when I get home. I can't explain what it sounds like. I tend to watch the eyes when Delfin and Mulawa are "performing".

 

[Birdman666]

I believe that just like in Amazons, it shows excitement. This excitement CAN lead to getting bit. But it's really hard to determine what exactly he's doing without a video Just be careful during these times.

It's exactly like amazons. And there is more to the body posture than just the tail flair.

Standing upright with a tail flair, is generally a happy to see you, come hither thing...

When they're hunched over, and holding their wings up slightly, and tail flairing means watch your fingers.

 

[LadySiobhan]

Thank you, that helps to know. I have only had experience with African parrot species and a little with Macaws. The world of Amazons is completely new to me.