CALMING
Calming your bird may be the most important procedure in the steps toward making your Budgie a friendly and affectionate pet. Birds can't respond when they are nervous and frightened.

Budgies generally calm quickly and easily. For birds to relax they must be in a calm environment with calm people. Set the mood as you would think ideal for an intimate conversation. Even have soft music and subdued lighting. Extreme, yes, but this example should help illustrate the type of setting in which your bird will perform best.

Likewise, picture yourself reduced to the pace of a slow motion movie, tranquil and calm. In reality owners set the example for their birds.

During the calming procedure repeat the words: "I want to be your friend. Please like me."

Even though your bird has never been held before, he will accept your hands as long as nothing bad happens. Birds experience as flock animals over thousands of years developed in them a ready submission to others. They accept their place In a group (in this case the human flock) without hostility or thoughts of revenge. Birds are "team" players as long as we're good to them.

By cupping your hands you will be providing a hiding place for him, and at the same time giving him time to accept your hands as being friendly. You may prefer to bring your bird to your chest or abdomen and cup him against your body. Whichever is most comfortable and convenient for you.

After being held 5-20 minutes your birds' respiration will slow and his muscles will relax. this time you can begin socialization.

Nibbling
A little nibbling on your hand may be your bird's way of saying, "What you're doing worries me. I'd prefer you didn't do that." This is a natural response. The nibbling will stop shortly as he relaxes and accepts your hands. Rarely do Budgies bite aggressively. If biting does occur, report it to your pet store. In any case, the point is not to reciprocate in any way. A hit, pinch, punch or flick will only make things worse. It creates more fear and more biting.

Squawking
Verbal protest - squawking, squealing - may occur when catching or handling your bird. Always listen and try to understand the complaint. If the cause is simply fear of your hand, or fear of being taken from the cage, proceed cautiously with what you're doing. Take extra time to calm your bird and be a friend.