https://www.chewy.com/education/bird/cockatiel/tone-down-cockatiel-hormones
*Cockatiels are charming and affectionate pets with unique care needs. In the Cockatiel Education Hub, you’ll find information on vocalization, social bonding, nutrition, and creating a safe and engaging environment tailored to your cockatiel’s personality.
Chewy editorial team explains that hormonal behavior in cockatiels - especially during breeding season- is not limited to larger parrots. Even small birds like cockatiels can display mood swings, aggression, or obsessive behavior toward people, toys, or objects they have imprinted on.
A male cockatiel might shower an object or person with affection and suddenly act aggressively when that attention is not returned, often out of frustration rooted in mixed communication.
When a cockatiel perceives its human companion as a mate, it can become confused or even bite if its expectations are not met.
Managing this behavior starts with reducing physical triggers, such as avoiding excessive petting on the back or rump, limiting time on your shoulder, and maintaining appropriate handling boundaries until the bird learns basic behavioral rules like no biting.
To help redirect a hormonally driven cockatiel, it is recommended that environmental adjustments and increased mental engagement.
Changes like moving the cage, removing potential nesting spots, and avoiding enclosed dark areas can help reduce hormone triggers. Introducing new toys, teaching your cockatiel words or tricks, and involving it in your daily activities - like going for car rides - can shift focus from mating behaviors to interactive stimulation.
Reducing daylight exposure by putting your bird to bed earlier may also help regulate hormonal cycles.
Avoid reinforcing negative behavior with attention and use tools like hand held perches during aggressive moments.
With consistent changes and boundaries, most cockatiels gradually move past hormonally driven behaviors and return to their friendly, curious selves.
