An Overview by SPBE Co-Chairman and judge, Pat Tucker
Parrots do not bite out of viciousness, it is always in response to a situation. Biting is a form of communication, whether it is to say "leave me alone", "I'm afraid", "I'm the boss of you", "I'm busy", 'I don't feel well", or "I want to breed". Parrots are prey animals which makes them hard-wired to be cautious of predators. In addition, they are psychologically delicate by nature, so much so that biting is most often a defensive reaction to perceived danger, an attempt to control their environment, or confusion due to circumstances. This can happen not only with a newly acquired bird but also with a sweet, long-term pet.
There are warning signs - hissing and/or rocking, tail fanning, fluffing up with an open beak, or eye pinning are signals to back off. Backing into a corner or thrashing are clear signs of extreme fear. Holding feathers close to the body with an erect posture means the bird senses danger. Continued interaction with your parrot under any of these conditions creates a confrontational situation in which the bird's fear or aggression will escalate..
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