Hormone season in parrots is a natural, seasonal shift—but in captivity, it can show up in ways that are confusing or challenging if you’re not expecting it. Think of hormonal season as your parrot’s biological clock telling it to nest and raise chicks. Triggers include spring/early summer, longer daylight, warmer temps, and more food/nesting—indoor birds can be hormonal year-round if conditions mimic breeding (long light, cozy spots).
This isn’t “bad behavior.” It’s communication and biology. During this time your bird may:
- Grow more aggressive (biting, lunging), act territorial, regurgitate as bonding, seek dark spaces to nest, or make loud repetitive calls.
What not to do:
- Don’t pet the back, wings, or under the tail: Safe petting areas are head, neck and feet. Avoid encouraging nesting (no boxes, tents or dark corners).
How to manage it:
- Keep consistent sleep (10–12 hours darkness), reduce access to dark or enclosed spaces and offer foraging toys and enrichment. Limit rich or warm mushy foods. #MAARS
Here, Prince Charming demonstrates appropriate head scritches ... See MoreSee Less

For the last few years parrot rescues and and sanctuaries across the country have seen a dramatic increase in the number of foundling birds, with the largest and most unmanageable number being little birds. Foundlings are birds who have been let outside with no one looking for them.
At MAARS’ sanctuary, The Landing, almost our entire flight room of little birds is comprised of these foundlings. Small parrots are sold cheaply at pet stores and are often bought impulsively without considering the 15-30+ year commitment. There is misinformation about small parrots being less work, quieter, or less destructive, which is untrue. They require the same care, attention, and financial commitment as large parrots. #MAARS www.maars.org/support-budgies/ ... See MoreSee Less