Birds and mirrors

by Aimee
(Australia)

Hi I have a 1 year old cockatiel that has become attached to his mirror. I gave it to him not long after I got him so that he would have company when I was at school. He is now attached to it and I am not sure if or how I can get him to live without it? I have tried to take it away from him once before but all he did was scream. Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks

Answer:

Hi Aimee,

Many of the smaller species of birds can become very attached to their mirrors. I think a mirror is only harmful if it causes your bird to become territorial or start isolating himself from you.

If you are giving your bird the attention he needs and are providing toys to play with, you don’t need to worry that he will be lonely.

If you feel that taking the mirror away would be best, you can safely take it away (though you will need to deal with the screaming). You can also slowly wean him off of it.

God bless,

Michelle Jay