It’s a shame that the term “bird-brained” exists. It perpetuates the myth that birds don’t need as much attention and love as other pets. The fact is, birds have complex social and intellectual needs, meaning they require more nuanced care than many animals. When their needs aren’t met, they can exhibit signs of stress, which can range from feather loss to biting their owners.
Here’s how to recognize the signs of stress in birds.
Many Factors Can Cause Stress in Birds
Birds are very sensitive to their environment, and they may scream, bite, or stop eating in response to certain triggers, such as:
- Dietary changes
- Loud noises from busy households, such as those with loud children
- Other animals, including prey-driven dogs
- Dirty living conditions
- Isolation (finches, for example, thrive in groups)
- A lack of activity
Some birds may also become stressed because of unideal temperature conditions. As a rule of thumb, most pet birds need temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit to thrive. Heat lamps, fans, and other devices can help you regulate your bird’s environment, offering a stable habitat.
1. Fewer Vocalizations
Birds are going to make noise. While some birds, such as pigeons and doves, are known for being fairly quiet, a loud bird is a happy bird. Parrots and budgies will chirp, squawk, and make other vocalizations for most of the day. It’s just part of communicating and navigating the world around them!
A stressed bird might not make as many vocalizations—or not make any noise, period. Initially, this may appeal to some first-time bird owners. After all, who wants a loud animal in the house? But ultimately, having a bird that makes noise is part of responsible ownership.
If your bird suddenly stops making as much noise, they could feel threatened by something in the house, such as a cat that spends most of its day lounging around the cage. Try removing the stressor or put the cage in a place where there’s less foot traffic. Soon, your bird might start happily singing again!
2. Feather Plucking
It’s not uncommon for your bird to shed a few feathers. However, if you notice that your bird is plucking its own feathers (or has bald patches without explanation), this could indicate that something is wrong. For instance, your bird may lack enrichment activities and pluck their feathers as a way to pass the time. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine notes that feather-plucking can also result from unwanted attention, sexual frustration, or changes in the weather.
The organization notes that you can stop feather-plucking by first examining your bird’s diet. Malnutrition and a lack of proper minerals can lead to this troubling issue. You should always supplement pellets with fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. You can also combat feather-plucking by ensuring that your bird gets a good amount of sleep. They should sleep 10 to 12 hours a day.
Contrary to popular belief, birds don’t immediately fall asleep once you throw a sheet over their cage. They sleep best in quiet, dark rooms with minimal interruptions from people or other pets.
3. Biting People
It’s common to associate being bitten by a bird as an act of aggression. Yet, birds don’t act out of malice or spite; they generally act “badly” out of fear. A pet bird may lunge, peck, or bite its owner to protect itself. This can quickly put a damper on bird/owner relations. What’s more, it can make routine tasks, such as feeding, playtime, and cleaning the bird’s cage stressful for everybody.
To avoid being bitten by your bird, use positive reinforcement to create a peaceful relationship. Start by offering high-value snacks, such as fruit or nuts, to associate your interactions with rewards. Speak kindly to your bird, and more importantly, take it slow. While some birds are more social than others, chances are, you won’t become best friends overnight.
If your attempts to socialize with your bird fail, the animal could be suffering from an underlying medical condition that manifests as aggression. Consult with your veterinarian if you suspect anything amiss about your bird’s health and well-being. While many domestic birds live decades, they still require comprehensive medical care to reach old age.
4. Self-Mutilation
While feather-plucking is a form of self-mutilation, this generally refers to when the bird creates self-inflicted wounds, such as scratches, punctures, and lacerations. This can result from boredom, stress, or even a desire for attention. Birds can suffer infections from open wounds, quickly resulting in veterinary emergencies. So, you must act quickly if you notice your feathered bird hurting itself.
A veterinarian may suggest using a small e-collar (like the ones post-surgical dogs wear) to limit the damage. In the meantime, they’ll likely ask that you reflect on what could be stressing your bird. Getting to the root of self-mutilation is the best remedy for bettering your bird’s quality of life.
5. “Stress Lines” on Their Feathers
Many signs of stress in birds are behavioral, but some can have physical manifestations, too. For instance, a stressed bird may have “lines” or “bars” on their feathers, running down the shafts. This is generally accompanied by feather loss and plucking.
6. Destructive Behaviors
As a way to entertain itself, a bored bird may destroy its cage. This could include shredding bedding, turning over water dishes, and biting at the cage’s bars. If you notice this occurring, consider allowing your bird to fly around an enclosed room in your house. You could also make enrichment toys and implement regular activities to prevent the destruction that comes from boredom.
Long story short: birds have the same emotional needs as many household pets! A calm environment, adequate socialization, and proper diet can help your bird live a long, happy life.
