how do I stop my cockatiel bird from biting me?

Answer 1

to add to kelsmile's answer you also do not want to jerk away or say "ouch!" when you are bitten.. it can make them think that you are playing or that they are actually a threat to you and they will keep doing it. As much as it hurts it is best not to give any reaction to it at all.

I have a fairly young one and she nibbles a little... I avoid making any reaction and she stops.. .and has gotten much better about NOT doing it as it has no effect what so ever. Our sun conure was taught not to bite in this manor as well and I will tell you he drew some blood! But still no reaction at all and he learned it was not doing anything and therefore not worth doing it.
Again our birds are young so it may be different for an older bird.
good luck!

Answer 2

To adequately answer your question, I need more info. How old is your bird and how long have you had him? Is he hand raised or hand fed?

What I did to stop mine from biting is I started hand feeding him. I gave him seeds to take from my fingers and once he learned that I wasn't a threat, he climbed right up on my shoulder. It's best to take him out and let him stand on top of the cage when doing this...he won't feel trapped and threatened. Also, when handling him to take him out of the cage, pick him up backwards - with his head towards your wrist, instead of towards your fingers where he can really bite hard.

If he's still young, you have a great chance at getting him to trust you! Just keep talking to him and working with him...don't give up! They're the sweetest brids and will give you back all the love you give them once they know that you are a friend.

Answer 3

He or she may be looking for a mate. In a lot of parrot species, biting is considered fore play. Try "kelsmile's" approach and if your bird still bites, buy another to keep him/her company.
Don't forget that cockatiels are very bright.and social animals. They get bored very easily sitting in a cage all day. You also might try getting some toys to keep him/her amused.

Answer 4

You could use a method I use with a conure. I had what is called a 'bad box". it was just simply a small cardboard pet carrier box that the pet stores use for temporary transport.

each time she bit me, I would place in the "bad box" and close it up . Leave her in there only for about 5 minutes. Don't have any kind of interaction with her while she is in there. She will soon associate biting with going into the "bad box" and will stop the biting.