Birds are social animals and can form deep bonds with their owners, so it’s no surprise that they often experience separation anxiety when left alone. This can lead to unwanted behaviors like excessive noise, feather plucking, or stress. Fortunately, there are several strategies to ease your bird’s anxiety and make their alone time more manageable. Let’s look at eight ways to help your bird feel secure and reduce their anxiety when you’re not home.

1. Establish a Consistent Routine

Birds are creatures of habit, and they find comfort in routines. By sticking to a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and sleep, your bird will feel more secure. When your bird knows what to expect and when it can significantly reduce feelings of uncertainty and stress. A routine provides a sense of control and stability for your bird, helping them adjust more easily to your departures. The more predictable their day is, the less anxious they’ll be when you leave.

2. Gradually Increase Time Apart

Sudden separations can overwhelm your bird, especially if they’re not used to being alone. To ease them into longer periods of solitude, start by leaving them alone for just a few minutes at a time. Over several days or weeks, slowly increase the time you spend away. This gradual approach helps your bird build tolerance to being by themselves without triggering panic. Over time, they’ll learn that being alone doesn’t mean they’re abandoned, and their anxiety will decrease.

3. Create a Safe, Stimulating Environment

Birds are naturally curious, and providing a stimulating environment can help keep them distracted and reduce anxiety. Make sure your bird’s cage is equipped with a variety of toys, climbing structures, and perches to encourage exploration. Introducing puzzle toys or foraging mats can engage your bird’s problem-solving skills, mimicking natural behavior and keeping them busy. A mentally stimulated bird is less likely to focus on loneliness and more likely to enjoy their alone time, reducing stress.

4. Provide Comforting Background Noise

Silence can be unsettling for some birds, amplifying their feelings of isolation. Consider leaving the TV or radio on at a low volume to provide soothing background noise. Soft music, nature sounds, or even bird calls can make your bird feel less alone and more at ease. The comforting sounds can also mask the quiet of the home, creating a more pleasant and familiar atmosphere for your bird when you’re away. This simple step can help ease your bird’s anxiety during those times of separation.

5. Introduce Interactive Distractions

In addition to toys, interactive distractions can help keep your bird engaged and focused while you’re away. Foraging toys, where your bird has to search for treats or food, can provide both mental and physical stimulation. The act of working for their food mimics the natural foraging behaviors birds would exhibit in the wild, making it a fulfilling activity. Regularly rotating the toys and changing up the activities will help maintain your bird’s interest and prevent boredom during your absence.

6. Reinforce Positive Interaction Times

Your bird’s perception of your absences can be shaped by the way you interact with them before and after you leave. To reduce anxiety, spend a little extra time with your bird before you leave, offering affection or treats. When you return, greet them calmly and provide some attention to reassure them that your departure wasn’t permanent. These positive interactions will help your bird associate being left alone with calm and security, making it easier for them to cope with your absence.

7. Consider a Companion for Your Bird

For some birds, having a companion can be a great way to reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety. If your bird enjoys the company of others, adopting another bird can provide comfort during your absences. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the two birds are compatible. Some birds may not get along, so it’s important to introduce them slowly and observe their interactions. A well-matched companion can alleviate loneliness and provide emotional support when you’re not there.

8. Train for Gradual Independence

Teaching your bird to be more independent can help reduce separation anxiety over time. Start by leaving your bird in another room for short periods and gradually increase the length and distance of these separations. It’s important to keep your exits and returns low-key, as dramatic farewells or greetings can increase anxiety. Over time, your bird will become more accustomed to being alone and will feel less stressed when you need to leave.