Social enrichment involves direct or indirect contact with humans such as visual or auditory interactions.Friedman SG, Edling TM, Cheney CD. (2006). Concepts in behavior: section I: the natural science of behavior. In: Harrison GJ, Lightfoot TL, editors. Clinical avian medicine, vol. 1. Palm Beach (FL): Spix Publishing., 46–59. Since parrots communicate in a rich and subtle way, it is important to understand their common communication signals to maintain a healthy interaction between the parrot and humans. Some common aggressive warnings seen from parrots are turning to opponent with head and neck extended, pecking at opponent without contact, wing flapping, bill gape, rapid sideways approach, and raised nape feathers and growling.Grindol D. (1998). Is your cockatiel being weird?. In: Grindol G, editor. The complete book of cockatiels. New York: Macmillan Publishing., 99–104. In contrast, affiliative behaviors include allopreening, allofeeding, spending time in proximity, reproductive behaviors, blinking mimicry, and unilateral stretching of wing and ipsilateral leg. Other submissive behaviors include crouching, fluffed feathers, head wagging, foot lifting and avoidance. Some behaviors can be similar, for instance, beak grinding or grating is exhibited when content which should not be confused with the short sharp sound of beak clicking that is expressed as a threat. Observation of these communication behaviors help reinforce the human-parrot bond and shape undesired behaviors. The parrot should feel confident, playful, and adaptable rather than fearful of interactions.Hooimeijer J. (2003). Organizing a parrot walk/parrot picnic. Proceedings of the Annu Conf Assoc Avian Vet. By raising the height of the enclosure and making eye contact at side-long glances, it can increase the sense of security for a timid bird.Welle K. (1999) Psittacine behavior handbook. Bedford (TX): Association of Avian Veterinarians Publication. Positive reinforcement training is another source of social enrichment that builds upon the mutual relationship and bond.Shewokis R. (2008). Educating your clients on avian enrichment. Proceedings of the Annu Conf Assoc Avian Vet. For example, it can be used to teach the parrot to stay calm and comfortable when the owner approaches its cage, opens the door, reaches inside, feeds by hand, touches its wings, beak and feet, and other commands including step up, step down, and stay. Consistent positive reinforcement throughout the parrot’s life will facilitate learning and develop the skills needed to live comfortably with humans.
