How Do You Know If Your Parakeet Likes You?
Parakeets are very sociable birds and humans often form strong bonds with their pets very quickly.
However, this friendship is created through the owner understanding the needs of their parakeet and also gaining a good understanding of how they feel throughout the day.
Once you and your parakeet are on the same wavelengths, then nothing will come between you and you’ll find it very rewarding.
If you’re not sure if your parakeet likes you or not, then we’ll be guiding you through some signs or movements that will indicate that you’re a friend in their eyes. We’ll also be giving you some tips to become friendlier with your parakeet to make sure that you two are on good terms.
Parakeets can be very vocal pets, however, this is not a bad thing. If you’re ever listening to music, singing a little tune, or whistling away in the room and your parakeet joins in, then this is a sign that they are relaxed, happy, and want to join in with you because they love you.
If your parakeet talks or mimics you when they speak to them then it’s a clear indicator that you’re considered a true friend to them, even so much so that they can even make jokes at you.
Your parakeet may pick up words or phrases throughout the time that you have together and they may randomly repeat them back to you to try and gain acceptance and to become a part of your family – how cute!
If a parakeet loves spending time with you and wants more attention, then they may also click their tongue against their break to grab your attention so you’ll interact with them more.
Parakeets do indeed like cuddling too especially when they have a strong bond with their owners or the people they live with. If your parakeet happily jumps on you without any encouragement and nuzzles against parts of your body, especially the face when they’re on your shoulder then this is a clear sign that they like you and feel comfortable around you.
This may be common knowledge to some but a surprise to others, but parakeets do actually purr like a cat when they’re content.
If they’re sitting on your shoulder or perching on your hand, maybe even if you’re gently stroking them down their back, you’ll begin to hear purring noises.
This means they are completely content within your company and will probably settle down for a nap as they feel so protected by you.
Mouth Movements
Your parakeets’ mouth movements can also give away some signs of whether they like you or not. If your bird is grinding their beak left to right as humans do, then this is a sign that they’re content.
If they’re opening and closing their mouth without speaking or attempting to bite you, then this is a sign of affection and is often the way that they play with other parakeets in the wild.
If your parakeet bobs their head or slightly leans their body into you, then this signifies that they’d like some attention in the form of a gentle stroke like a regular pet would.
However, don’t be disheartened if your parakeet doesn’t do this yet, some are more shy and cautious and will take a few attempts before they feel ready to make this step.
Wings
The wings on a parakeet are not only an instrument for flying but also a way of showing how happy they are. If your bird is flapping their wings when you enter a room, come near or when they’re perching on a part of your body then they’re just trying to show their appreciation for you and display their happiness.
More subtle signs that your parakeet likes you are if they fluff their feathers up when you return into a room, or they’ll happily wake up from a nap and be more alert around you.
If you’re walking around a room doing some chores, then they’ll eagerly watch you with interest in the hopes that you’ll let them out of the cage or go up to them and speak to them.
Tail
Another body movement that your parakeet might make to show their love for you, is wagging their tail or their behind as a dog does. This just means they’re happy to see you.
However, beware this could also mean that your parakeet is preparing to relieve themselves so stay cautious if they’re sitting on you when this happens.
Head Bobbing
They may also bob their head (this is very common) when they’re excited to see you if you’ve been away from the room or home for a while. Some parakeets may also jingle some of their toys inside their cage to try and get your attention as they want you to go and see them and make a fuss.
Parakeets are quite clean animals and when supplied with a water bowl, you’ll find them splashing around to clean their feathers of any dirt or oils that they cannot reach by preening themselves.
If your parakeet is particularly fond of you, then they might take it upon themselves to preen you when they’re resting on your shoulder. Don’t be alarmed if you feel a tickle of their beak in your ear or rummaging through your hair, they’re just trying to clean you and they don’t mean any harm.
If your parakeet is happy to be handled in and out of their cage, around the home without a fuss, then they’re very comfortable within your company and have a lot of trust in you.
Rigidness
However, if your parakeet feels rigid when you’re handling them, or they’re ruffling their feathers a lot, then this could mean they’re irritated or restless, so it’s probably best to gently place them back into their cage so they can have some alone time.
Parakeets who are happy and comfortable within the company of their owners will feel more inclined to hang upside down on their perch in their cage. This is very common for birds to do, however, it leaves them in a vulnerable position so only those who feel safe will do this.
So if your parakeet hangs upside down in their cage when you’re around, take this as a huge compliment as they feel safe within your company.
If you’re worried that your parakeet doesn’t like you, then there are some things that you can do to ensure you’re keeping them as happy as possible. Make sure to give your parakeet plenty of fresh water and a healthy diet with all the foods that they love.
Don’t allow any dogs, cats, or other pets in the home to come near them as this will make them feel threatened and they won’t feel safe around you either then.
Make sure their cage is big enough, placed at eye level so they feel safe and out the way and also away from bright lights in front of the window and loud noises from entertainment systems.
Parakeets are playful and if they don’t like playing with you yet, then give them some bird toys so they can entertain themselves in their cage.
Build up trust with your parakeet by feeding them food from your hands or fingers inside their cage. They may not feel comfortable approaching you in the beginning, but if you perceive you’ll find that eventually they’ll come and sit on your fingers as they’ll associate them with treats or food.
This process will take time, but hopefully, your parakeet will become comfortable and happy enough to spend time with you outside their cage.