Simple petting question

[Grinder]

I was told by someone it is not a good idea to pet my Macaw down her back. Essentially she lets me pet her anyway I want - head, neck, beak, wings, legs, tail. So should I stop petting her down the back?

 

[LoveMyParrots]

It's ok to pet their back and it's also fine to pet one wing. But don't pet under both wings at the same time, and don't touch near their tail feathers on their back, if you do, you will cause mating behavior, and will cause aggression.

Hope this helped

 

[Grinder]

This is a big help. Thank you so much.

 

[sodakat]

Here is a very worthwhile read that explains petting and other human/bird handling:

RP - Mating Rational Parrot -- How not to be a Tease

 

[plax]

In my experience each bird is different as far as which areas trigger mating urges. With some birds it can be the skin on their face or finger contact with their tongue. With others it can be any of several areas in addition. Sometimes you don't even have to touch them; your mere presence is enough. To me it seems to go on a bird-by-bird basis.

 

[BeakersBro]

This link is very eye opening. I had no idea about this. I will have to watch out for signs.

I have a question. I am a male, so a male parrot won't get attracted to me in this way, right?

 

[Featheredsamurai]

This link is very eye opening. I had no idea about this. I will have to watch out for signs.

I have a question. I am a male, so a male parrot won't get attracted to me in this way, right?

They can still be attracted to you in that manner.

 

[JJones1719]

I agree with Plax. Each bird is different. What triggers one bird my not trigger another.
My Male Eclectus is horney year round and if the wind blows, anything is fair game.
As for my GW, He is a complete cuddle bug with me and gets cranky if I do not pet every inch of his body. He will press his body, use his beak to direct me where he would like to be scratched or rubbed. Best of luck to all now that spring is soon to arrive and love will be in the air. LOL. Joe

 

[LoveMyParrots]

This is a big help. Thank you so much.

You're welcome