My Cockatiel won't let me pet him.?

Question

I recently bought a baby grey cockatiel.

I know that birds need space and time when they first get into a home.

Since he's been home, I've just been sitting in my room next to his cage, reading--so he gets used to me.

He's now come to a point where he'll eat out of my hand, and he's already learned the "Step up" command, and I can take him around in my room on my finger without him trying to get away.

He seems really comfortable around me, but whenever I gently attempt to pet his back, or stomach, he screeches at me (he won't hiss, but it sounds like an unhappy screech.)

Is there a way to get him used to me petting him?

Answer 1

well some cockateils don't like to be pet on the head,neck,chest, or their back. it is just a weird thing some cockatiels do...

Answer 2

give him more time to get to know you, thats all it takes :)

Answer 3

having cockatiels is a waiting game theyre shy even if you raise them from thier youth they are suspicious. i have experiaced that if you give them time and dont push your luck they realy do come around and are spectacular pet in appartments though on occasion are noisy. Also i found that training them things such as "step up" is very rewarding and quickens the bonding prosess

Answer 4

"Recent" is the operative word here. It can take a cockateil up to a month and maybe even more to feel so comfortable with his owner, to be petted. All in good time and before you know it, he won't want to leave your side (which can be a problem too, but that's a whole other question, lol)

Answer 5

You just need to give him more time to get used to you.  After about a week or so you can try again.  If not then give him more time.  If he's not used to you after about 3-4 weeks you should go to the vet to see if he's sick or if something is wrong with him.

Answer 6

give it some time.it just needs to get a little bit more time to know u everything will be fine

Answer 7

I had the same problem with my sun conure. Even though it felt like forever we just had to all be very patient. Food did help coax him off his cage and so did arranging a little play area for him on the floor. He really enjoys his bath time. We learned he would get really excited when we ran the water while he was on our shoulder. I just cupped my hands and he figured out the rest. Even today he still won't let us pet him unless he wants his neck scratched. Some birds are just always skittish and you have to work around that. Whatever you do, NEVER reach in the cage for your bird. That is his domain and his area of safety. Always make sure he comes out on his own will. Continue being patient it will eventually pay off!

Answer 8

Their back and belly can be very sensitive.  I don't suggest trying to try to pet him there.  Ask him for cuddles and see if he'll let you touch the top of his head, or beak.  If he tries to bite you, don't pull your hand back, or he'll learn that biting will get him what he wants.  Just push forward a little bit more, and then retreat.  Show him you're not trying to hurt him.  It's really important that he trust you completely.

Most cockatiels love a good scritching on the head, they just have to work the courage to accept the offer.  He will also let you know when he wants it by lowering his head to you.  They usually allow kisses to the head before scritches so just take your time.  You're doing great so far.