Pacing back and forth on the perch
This is an indication of happy excitement. "You're home! You're home! Come get me."

Banging their toys
Turning around and hitting toys. "I'm so happy. I'll do it again." Full of energy and feeling great.

Opening up the feathers on face and neck
Head may appear puffed. Symbolizes calm contentment - happy, pleased.

Wing twitch
Not a real obvious display and most easily noticed when holding your bird. The wings lift away from the body as if to let air circulate between the wing and the body. The wings lift and then snap back to their regular position. Only performed when birds are extremely happy.

Biting at you, but not biting
Reaching out toward you or leaning forward as if to bite. Possibly repeated. There could be physical contact but only a non-painful bite. Next step would be a painful bite. Bird is upset. "I don't want that."

Nibble, nibble, nibble - fast
Bird is saying, "Don't bother me now." This action should not alarm owners. Bird may accept what you want to do 30 seconds later.

Head bobbing
This is an attention getter. Usually means they would like to come out of their cage. "I want to sit on your finger."

Preening themselves when receiving attention
May be initiated when you scratch their neck or just when they are sitting with you. "Thank you. For you I'll make myself look better."

Lowering head - bowing
A greeting or sign of submission. Bird acknowledges you and asks to be petted or have neck preened.

*Steve Madonick Golden Cockatoo Boca Raton, Florida.