Ever wondered what it feels like to have your African Grey Parrot perched proudly on your shoulder? Maybe you’ve even imagined yourself looking like a pirate with a loyal sidekick! But hold on—before you start your “Captain Greybeard” adventures, let’s dig into whether it’s actually safe (for both of you) to let your feathered friend claim your shoulder as their throne.
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Think of your African Grey on your shoulder as having a quirky roommate. They might make you laugh, but they also might leave crumbs (or worse) on your favorite shirt. And just like a roommate, setting boundaries is key to keeping things peaceful! 🙂
Why Do African Grey Parrots Love Sitting on Shoulders?
African Grey Parrots are incredibly intelligent and curious creatures. They love to be high up where they can see everything, and what better perch than your shoulder? It’s like a front-row seat to the world, and your head is the cherry on top!
But as cute as it sounds, allowing your parrot on your shoulder comes with responsibilities—and some risks. Think of it like letting someone ride shotgun in your car. Sure, it’s fun, but they need to follow the rules, or it’s a bumpy ride for everyone.
The Perks of Letting Your African Grey Perch on Your Shoulder
- Bonding Time: Letting your African Grey sit on your shoulder can strengthen your relationship. It’s a sign of trust—like your bird saying, “You’re my person.”
- Bird’s Eye View: Your parrot gets the best seat in the house! They can observe their surroundings and feel included in your activities.
- Hands-Free Fun: Shoulder perching lets you move around freely while still keeping your parrot close. Who needs a handbag when you’ve got a parrot accessory?
The Risks of Shoulder Perching
Let’s not ignore the flip side. Shoulder perching can lead to some… let’s call them “interesting” moments.
1. Face Bites Aren’t Fun
Even the sweetest African Grey can get startled or grumpy. And when their beak is just inches from your face, that’s a recipe for a not-so-cute selfie moment. Trust me, you don’t want to explain a parrot bite to your coworkers!
2. Power Play
Some parrots might start thinking they’re the boss if they’re always on your shoulder. It’s like giving them the keys to your house—they might start setting their own rules.
3. Accidental Tumbles
Birds are clumsy sometimes. One wrong move, and they could lose their balance and hurt themselves. Plus, let’s not even get started on the potential mess if they decide to “go” while perched.
How to Safely Allow Shoulder Perching
If you’re still keen on letting your African Grey sit on your shoulder (and who could blame you?), there are ways to make it safer:
- Training First
Before your parrot graduates to “shoulder privileges,” ensure they’re well-trained. Teach them basic commands like “step up” and “no bite.” This gives you control in case things go south. - Check Their Mood
A happy, relaxed parrot is a better shoulder buddy than one who’s cranky or overexcited. Think of it as inviting a chill friend to hang out, not the one who always starts drama. - Set Time Limits
Don’t let your African Grey make your shoulder their permanent nest. Short visits are fine, but they shouldn’t think of your shoulder as a timeshare. - Protect Your Face
Keep your parrot slightly to the side rather than directly in front of your face. It’s better to be safe than to end up with an unplanned nose piercing.
When Shoulder Perching Is a No-Go
Not all parrots (or people) are shoulder-ready. Here’s when it’s best to skip the idea:
- New to Your Home: If your African Grey is still adjusting, give them time to feel comfortable first.
- Aggressive Behavior: Birds that bite or act dominant aren’t good candidates for shoulder sitting.
- Too Territorial: If your parrot refuses to come down or gets possessive, it’s time to draw the line.
My Closing Thoughts
I would say letting your African Grey Parrot perch on your shoulder can be a delightful experience—if done safely. It’s all about balance: understanding their behavior, setting boundaries, and keeping safety in mind. Whether your parrot becomes your shoulder buddy or sticks to their cage, the most important thing is building a happy, healthy relationship with them.
Now, it’s your turn! Does your African Grey enjoy shoulder time? Do you have any funny or memorable stories about it? Share your experiences in the comments below—I would love to hear from you!
If you liked this blog, please share it with your family and friends who might also find it helpful. If you love African Greys, join our community of Grey owners! You can meet other owners, share tips and learn from each other.
Stay safe and much love!
