Introducing your bird to a Flyper (Bird Diaper) may take a few days or even weeks. Younger birds tend to adapt to Flyper wearing quicker than older ones. While some birds accept it immediately, others need time and patience.
Here are the step-by-step videos
Step 1
Familiarize your bird with the Flyper.
Step 2
Putting the Flyper loop over your bird’s head.
Step 3
Fully fitting the Flyper.
Here are some guidelines to help you introduce your bird to its Flyper:
- Don’t Rush the Process: Avoid taking the Flyper straight out of its packet and putting it on your bird.
- Allow Gradual Exposure: Over a few days, let your bird observe the Flyper from a comfortable distance.
- Encourage Exploration: Gradually move the Flyper closer and let your bird explore and play with it. You can even pin it to your shirt while your bird sits on your shoulder.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Place your finger inside the Flyper and gently scratch your bird’s head against its feathers.
- Familiarize the Flyper: Hang the Flyper in your bird’s cage so it gets used to seeing it around.
- Gently Introduce the Straps: When the time feels right, try to put the straps over your bird’s head. Offer treats to encourage your bird to put its head through on its own, like dangling a carrot in front of a donkey.
- Keep Your Bird Distracted: When handling parrots, give them a stick or pencil to hold, preventing them from biting your fingers as you fasten the hook and loop closure. Distracting them with toys can also help.
- Supervise During the First Wear: Always keep an eye on your bird when it starts wearing the Flyper for the first time.
- Expect Some Disorientation: It’s normal for your bird to feel disoriented initially (e.g., falling over, biting, or walking backward). This behavior will diminish as it gets accustomed to wearing the Flyper.
- Create Positive Associations: Take your bird on a car ride or another fun adventure immediately after fitting the Flyper. This will help it associate the Flyper with exciting activities.
- Know Your Bird’s Adaptability: Pigeons tend to adapt quickly to Flypers. Younger parrots adjust faster than older ones, who may need more patience and care.
Final Tips: Patience, Perseverance, and Kindness
The key to successful Flyper training lies in being patient, persevering, and showing kindness. With time, your bird will enjoy fun, sanitary outings with you!
Useful Tip for Parrot Owners:
Let your parrot hold a pen or a stick in its beak during and after fitting the Flyper. this can prevent bites or nibbling on the Flyper (a great distraction!)
