Taming a scared lovebird is easier said than done.
Lovebirds can be nippy when they aren’t happy and that can become problematic in a new environment. If they aren’t used to you or the area, they will start to go into a shell.
This is difficult to work through, but it’s possible as long as you are willing to show a bit of dedication!
Before doing anything else, you need to understand why it’s important to think about taming a scared lovebird. There are going to be specific signs that will pop up when it comes to a scared lovebird. Look for these signs right away.
The signs can include:
- Shivering
- Squawking Loudly and Constantly
- Staying in a Corner of the Cage
If you start noticing one or more of these signs, it’s time to come up with a plan for taming your scared lovebird.
This guide is going to focus on what it takes to do things the right way and why it’s important to tame a lovebird right away.
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Best Bird Treats for Lovebirds (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
- Tasty, Nutritious Treat
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Tips on Taming a Scared Lovebird
Tip #1: Keep it in a Low-Traffic Area
Where is the birdcage set up right now in your home?
This is a serious concern because you have to think hard when it comes to taming a scared lovebird. You don’t want a situation where the environment is a major issue.
Lovebirds like humans but not to the point where you can put them in the middle of a frat house!
It needs to be a semi-quiet part of the house where the birds can rest easily whenever they like.
If your lovebird is terrified all the time, it might have a lot to do with the environment.

Tip #2: Get It Used to Your Scent
Your scent is going to matter a lot.
If the lovebird is brand-new in your home, it’s time to focus on the basics. The lovebird is going to be nervous and that is something you don’t want to worsen. Instead, you want to gradually work on it by focusing on getting the lovebird used to your scent.
How do you go about doing this?
You are going to stay close to the cage and simply let it get used to you being a part of where it lives now.
You don’t need to make any noises or try to rush into the cage.
It’s going to take a bit of time and that’s natural when it comes to taming a scared lovebird.
Just stay patient and focus on staying around the cage on your own. This will allow it an opportunity to get used to at least one person in the home rather than getting confused by multiple scents.
Tip #3: Use Bird Treats
Bird treats are essential when it comes to taming a scared lovebird.
Why not win over your love bird by giving them a few treats? It’s a simple tweak that is going to earn their trust and show that you are not a threat at all!
Play around with different types of treats when taming a scared lovebird.
You will eventually find something the bird loves and that is what you want to keep by your side at all times when trying to hold the lovebird.

Tip #4: Let the Lovebird Come to You
It’s easy to want to put your hand into the cage and start gently rubbing the bird on its head.
While this may seem like a good idea, it isn’t!
The lovebird won’t like the idea of a random hand coming into the cage and immediately touching it. This is nerve-wracking for the bird and can be perceived as a serious threat especially if it is a new bird that doesn’t know much about you or your scent.
The goal should be to stay close to the birdcage and gently place your hand inside. Never thrust your hand at the bird or even in its direction.
Just keep it nearby to allow the lovebird an opportunity to come to you.
If it doesn’t, it’s okay and you continue to work on it later. It’s never a rush!
This is a must when it comes to taming a scared lovebird because they are not a robot. There is going to be a process that needs to be followed and the timeline is going to vary depending on the lovebird.
Final Thoughts
Taming a lovebird has to include strategy because this is a complex creature with several underlying habits when it comes to your presence.
A major advantage is that lovebirds prefer bonding and being around other animals or humans. It’s simply a matter of working with them and building that trust where they don’t see you as a threat.
For some, it’s going to take a few days while others require months of hard work on your part. Don’t be afraid of it and continue to follow through with the tips mentioned here!
With the right approach, you are going to start to notice a change in the bird and that’s what it all comes down to when taming a scared lovebird. If you put in the hard work, the lovebird is slowly going to start coming close to you even when you aren’t putting your hand in the birdcage.
They will want to be on your side of the cage when you’re nearby. This is a good sign.
Here are a few additional articles you can read through on birds – giving celery to lovebirds, learning more about parakeets and lovebirds, how to train a lovebird to stay put, and strategy for giving your bird a bath.