Cockatiel that is starting to like to be pet... how can i make him really enjoy it?

Question

well i got my cockatiel at a pet store a year ago, but he was three when i got him. he was not hand fed and he was a meanie for the longest time. a few months ago he started to accept being held without jumping away or biting and just two weeks ago he let me pet him! i was so happy because the pet store lady said he would be untameable. he still lets me pet him a bit, but only a certain way (on top of his head like you would to a dog, or on his neck backwards). he lets me do it but without liking it much, and if i do it for too long he'll get all mean and mad and try to push me away or nip. how can i make him enjoy it more?

Answer 1

Taking your time and allowing him to accept you at his own pace is the best way to go. Just keep doing what you are doing and take your own time too. Dont try and rush him or he may change his mind again.

Answer 2

Congratulations!  It sounds like you're doing a wonderful job :-)

Be patient and go at his own pace.  Each bird is an individual and some will learn to enjoy petting more than others.  But cockatiels for the post part are very sweet birds.  It sounds like your's is just beginning to appreciate your touch.

Remember that trust is the basis of any good relationship.  Show your bird that you will withdraw your hand as soon as he wants you too.  Once he realizes that you won't force him that trust will grow and keep on growing.  

You're doing fine so far.  Just keep at it, slow and steady :-)

Colette

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Parro...

Answer 3

Well every bird is different. I can tell you what mine likes, he likes it on the head, under the beak ( "chin" area)  and around his orange patches. My little guy loves it between the eye and his beak too, but be careful with that one. Good Luck with him.  OH one more thing, I don't know if it will help but when you pet him try doing it out of sight of his cage. I don't know might help might not....it did with mine.