Some People Cannot Be Helped
I want to talk about a topic I face a lot being a trainer, working in bird rescue and rehab, and here on Instagram. You can’t help those who do not want help.
I have to admit, it’s tough. It’s so hard, especially when you care so deeply about these animals and want what is best. I’ve tried to help rescue organizations improve their ways to be dismissed to have to say goodbye to birds I worked closely with and had deep bonds with. I had to stop reaching out forcing people for updates on birds that really needed help. I have to turn my back and pretend it all isn’t going down, try not to think all that “what if...” about the bird. Sometimes, it keeps me up at night.
Some people believe they know what’s best for the bird, but don’t have the education and experience to make those calls. Ultimately, the bird suffers. Especially when it comes to aggression, the behavior will continued to be rehearsed and eventually the biting will get old for the owner. They can no longer post online the bite marks they get from their bird to get sympathy. They no longer want the bird around. Then, the bird has a long history of aggression and turns into a maniac like crazy bird who needs many many years of consistent daily training to improve. You set the fate of a bird that will outlive you when you have been given a plethora of resources. But they do not choose any of them and let the behavior continue.
For context, this post was not sparked by any of my followers. It’s someone in my personal life with a bird I love dearly that will not do the right thing and work with her bird. But it’s a good topic to discuss because reaching out for help to anyone, doesn’t even have to be me just anyone, for the well-being on your bird is always the best move. Birds are incredibly complex.
You shouldn’t be getting bit by your birds. Getting bit is not normal part of parrot ownership. It’s a normal part of not understanding your bird and pushing birds over threshold. Yes, accidents happen, but if it is consistent, there is a deeper rooted issue that will only get worse as they continue to rehearse the behavior