My male parakeet bullies the female. Is this a problem? What to do?

Question

I own two parakeets and the male seems to bully the female which from my research is usually the other way around. Can this become a problem or is it normal? Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male

Allison Newth, VMD · Accepted Answer

While it is not uncommon for one bird to bully another, it certainly isn't behavior we want to allow or encourage. Birds can become ill, withdrawn, malnourished, and experience physical trauma from bullying behavior. I usually recommend owners try to determine what might be causing the bullying (disputes over food, water, toys, perches, cage space, attention, etc.). If you can figure out what the cause is you might be able to stop it. For instance, if the female is being picked on every time she sits on a particular perch you can remove that perch and add a few more options so they don't have to share. I have also had owners who have gotten a second cage and will separate the two birds for a few days when one bird starts to pick on the other. It is also not a bad idea take these guys to your veterinarian to make sure there isn't a medical problem with either bird. It can certainly happen that if one bird gets sick the cagemate will target the sick bird with bullying behavior. Best of luck with your little pair, I hope this was helpful!

My male parakeet bullies the female. Is this a problem? What to do?

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