Teaching an old bird new tricks is very rewarding. Somehow it happened: someone moved, or passed away, or that bargain ad in the classifieds was too good to pass up. You're now the proud owner of a slightly-used pet bird. Older birds can make wonderful pets, but they'll need a little more understanding to help them adapt to a new household.

Deciphering the past

First, consider the bird's past life. Was it a beloved pet, or an abused and neglected rescue? Parrots are capable of forming deep attachments, and if it lost its previous owner, it might go through a period of grieving. Some birds refuse to eat or play and will mope around the cage. If a veterinarian has ruled out physical causes, then the bird is probably depressed. Spend as much time as possible with your new pet, and offer treats and toys and plenty of love. It will likely respond quickly to your kindness.

On the other hand, a previously abused bird has no reason to like or trust humans, and will need some convincing that this home is different.

"Older birds come into a new home with a lot more baggage,'' said Ken Eisenberg, DVM, of All Creatures Great and Small Veterinary Practice in Downers Grove, Ill. "They might have been subject to a lot of negative reinforcement, and could also be suffering from the effects of a poor diet or unaddressed medical issues.''

If your pet came from a dubious background, start with a thorough vet check and dietary makeover. Don't force a lot of direct interaction in the beginning, but instead spend as much time as possible near the bird while engaged in another activity, such as reading, cooking, or watching television. Parrots are expert at picking up on human moods, and the goal should be to allow it to quietly observe the family in a non-threatening situation.

Eventually, the new addition will begin to solicit attention, and then it's time for interaction. "If you are taming a parrot, you have to accept that you're going to get bitten sometimes,'' Eisenberg said. Parrots use their beaks to explore, to defend themselves, and to show affection through gentle preening. A fearful bird might offer a painful warning nip, but usually only truly aggressive birds bite at full strength.

The basic commandment

At minimum, a pet parrot should learn the "step up'' command so that it can be safely moved from place to place. To execute this command, place your hand (or finger, for smaller parrots) against the bird's abdomen and say "step up.'' If the bird doesn't respond, then push against it gently as you are giving the command. A tame previously trained bird should immediately step onto an offered hand. If you're dealing with a fearful or likely-to-bite parrot, move quickly and confidently. Give the command, offer the hand, and push gently all in one swift movement. The trick is to get the bird to step up before it has a chance to consider options such as biting or running away.

Most importantly, never offer your hand and then jerk it back if the parrot reaches with its beak. It will teach a fearful bird that hands are unpredictable and scary; it will teach an aggressive bird that it can intimidate you. Either way, the relationship is off to a rocky start.

For further help, consider the following resources:

• Your veterinarian. Besides advice, he or she might have access to a treasure trove of handouts.
• Parrot behaviorists (find listings in the classified section of pet bird magazines).
• Local bird clubs. These organizations often hold educational seminars or feature helpful speakers.

Reviewed by Amy I. Attas, V.M.D.

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