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My parrot is scared of me and hides. How can I build its trust?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male

MY parrot is scared of me. Whenever I go near him, he enters his hole or home. What should i do?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2017

You have to be patient. Some birds are not very social or have had bad experiences with people and it takes longer to get them tame. The longer you can sit still by his cage and wait for him to come out and explore, the better. He needs to gain some trust that you aren't going to hurt or eat him, and this can take many weeks/months with some birds. If you can leave the cage door open and try to tempt him with a fruit or veggie treat, he will eventually become curious and come out and visit.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 3rd, 2017

    It probably depends on how long you have had your bird. The longer you’ve had him the more and more he will become used to you. Try to encourage him to interact with you, not just with his regular food, but with special treats he only gets when he is with you. Be patient and go at his pace. If you push him too quickly he may retreat further and it will become even harder to gain his trust. Just be patient and consistent and he will come around. Best of luck. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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