New cockatiel bites. How to clean cage without scaring my birds?

Question

My pet cockatiel is biting his cage and tries to bite/hiss at anyone who comes near his cage. He lives in the cage with another male cockatiel who is much more calm and abit scared. It has been a couple of days since we got them. I need to clean the cage however I cannot due to the cockatiel the bites and the scared cockatiel. I feel like if I clean out the cage the scared one will be even more scared and will be reluctant to be near me. Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | 3 months and 2 days old

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Since they are "new", they may need time to acclimate to their new home. A cage with a removable tray may make cleaning easier and safer. You can try offering some food or a treat to distract them while you clean. Acclimating them to you will take time and patience on your part. You will need to start by simply sitting near the cage daily or multiple times daily. Gradually increase the time as they get used to your presence. Move slowly and speak softly. End each session with a treat or reward. Once you gain their trust, begin again, but this time placing your hand in the cage for ever increasing periods of time. Make no attempt to pet or hold them. Again, end each session with a reward. There will be squawking and fluttering about initially, but you will know they are acclimating when this response decreases then disappears. Eventually, you will be able to teach the perch command and hold them.

New cockatiel bites. How to clean cage without scaring my birds?

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