Last Updated on by Mitch Rezman
Desiree reported
First of all, I love reading your replies to members. I have a 32 year old goffin and I see a change in him since my husband passed away 3 months ago. He has always been my bird and seemed aggressive toward my husband most of the time. That is why I am stumped why he seemed to have changed.
More quiet, sleeping more, preening a lot and even plucking at times. Any ideas? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you and have a wonderful day
Catherine wrote:
Dear Desiree
I’m sorry for your loss. It’s understandable that you are concerned about the changes in your Goffin cockatoo’s behavior following your husband’s passing.
Birds, especially parrots, are highly sensitive and can be affected by changes in their environment and the emotions of their human companions. Here are some possible reasons and steps you can take:
Possible Reasons for Behavior Change:
1. **Emotional Response**: Parrots can sense the emotions of their owners. Your Goffin might be responding to your grief and the change in household dynamics.
2. **Loss of Routine**: Your husband’s presence and daily routines, even if not directly involved with the bird, could have been part of your cockatoo’s world. The absence of these routines can cause stress or confusion.
3. **Seeking Attention**: The bird might be seeking more attention and comfort from you now that your husband is no longer there, even if it was previously aggressive towards him.
4. **Stress and Anxiety**: The changes in the household might be causing stress or anxiety in your cockatoo, leading to changes in behavior.
Steps to Help Your Cockatoo:
1. **Maintain a Routine**: Try to keep a consistent daily routine to provide a sense of stability and security.
2. **Extra Attention and Comfort**: Spend more time with your bird, offering comfort and reassurance. Engage in interactive play and training sessions.
3. **Enrichment Activities**: Provide toys, puzzles, and foraging opportunities to keep your cockatoo mentally stimulated.
4. **Monitor Health**: Ensure that the change in behavior is not due to an underlying health issue. A visit to an avian vet might be a good idea to rule out any medical concerns.
5. **Socialization**: Gradually introduce your cockatoo to new social situations or people to help it adjust to the changes.
It’s normal for pets to react to significant changes in their environment and the emotions of their owners. With time, patience, and extra care, your Goffin cockatoo will likely adjust to the new situation.
Our birds may seem almost human to us and we think they understand everything, but they don’t.
Even if your bird did not care for your husband he was still a flock mate, a family member who is now GONE.
Your bird may wonder what happened, where did he go? He may have assumed he would show back up but hasn’t and may be concerned is he next?
I would consider hanging a picture up of your husband so your bird feels that his presence is still with you both. You can carry him over to it and you can talk calmly to it and to your bird. It may help.
But much like the joke where the parrot sees a turkey in the freezer and thinks that he might be next, your bird may feel vulnerable for a while. Just offer love, a regular schedule of treats, play time, etc and over time your bird will feel better.
If you have any specific concerns or need further advice, feel free to ask.
Desiree responds:
Can’t thank you enough for your time and the picture is a wonderful idea. I have plenty in the bedroom but not where he spends most of his time.
Again thank you
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