Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why does my female budgie bite my finger when she's on it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

They've started to become more comfortable with my finger. They're eating off my hand and most of the time when I press my finger they'll hop on. The male budgie sits on my finger calmly whereas the female one is sitting but she'll start biting my finger while she is sitting. I don't understand why!? I don't think she's scared as she hops on a lot of the times and eats as well while shes's on my finger she bites it. Why!?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on October 13th, 2018

She may be curious, nervous still or stressed. When she begins to bite, drop your hand about 2-3 inches rapidly. This will put her off balance and distract her from biting. Do it each time and she will learn biting is not allowed. Praise and reward her each time if she stops biting. If not, place her back in or on the cage until she settles down then try again.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 5th, 2018

    It is hard to tell what the cause could be. It may be that she is jealous of you or the other bird and so is biting as a way to stop you/get attention, or she is stressed out a bit by you. You can try offering a favorite treat every time you visit, to see if it helps build some trust, or work with her one on one without the male around to see if her behavior changes. Offering a treat such as millet or a toy that can be played with in her mouth while you handle her may also help keep her occupied and prevent her from biting you while you interact.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored