Not sure what he is doing..

[Rhylie]

Hi guys,

I recently bought a Sun Conure from a previous owner who could no longer keep him. He is 15 months old with a lovely temperament. However, recently I've noticed he is biting rather hard, not drawing blood but it still hurts, usually fingers. He also bobs his head up and down simulating regurgitation (sometimes does actually regurgitate). I thought that maybe he is going through a hormonal stage. He is so spoilt, lots of foraging/wooden toys in his cage to keep him entertained. I spent nearly all day everyday with him too. He is lovely at night, digging his way into my jumper, turning in to a ball of feathers. I can handle him without him biting me and getting lippy.

I would like to understand a bit more of this behavior, is it hormonal behavior or trust issues? I believe I have come to the right place!

 

[BoomBoom]

Sounds like he is being a hormonal sun conure, especially at that age. Actually my sun is 1 year and 4 months, almost your sun's age. Mine also head bobs a lot and attempts to regurg on me. He can also nip sometimes, but I think that is because he gets carried away playing or preening me.

With your bird, it's important to note what makes him bite. Is it when you try to pick him up? Perhaps it is best to avoid those triggers.

Whenever your sun conure nips, I would just show him that you are not pleased. Give a firm NO. If he does not heed, take him someplace else or redirect his attention to something else. The less he bites, the less it can become a potential habit. Good luck!

 

[weco]

I agree with Boomer but will add that he may also be testing his boundaries & since parrots are very body language conscious/aware a stern NO along with putting him in his cage & an upset look on your face often works wonders...though he may not get it the first time around, but if you stay consistent, it shouldn't take long.....

Good luck.....