How do I resocialize a cockatiel who's lived in a neglectful environment?

[thetinytowelhead]

I've just rescued a cockatiel. We are going to the vet early this week to definitively determine her age, gender, and any other health issues I should know about. She's been kept in a very small cage with no toys and no socialization. She is probably around ten years old and I would like her to be happy. Does anybody have any advice as to how I could bond with her and rehabilitate her into a happy little birdie? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Renee]

He is just really going to be happy with things now and thank you for what you are doing. The things with neglected birds is that they are so used to being in their cage so once you get him out of the cage I find it easier to go to a small room like a bath room or laundry room. This gives him less places to go. Just sit with him and talk little whistles, give him some treats. Do this every day. I like to take out cereal and seeds and fresh fruits and veggies and have a couple plates on the table and you eat some and let him eat some. He may not but that is okay try presenting them in different ways like chopped carrots or shredded carrots mine eat shredded ones. I bought one of those mirror perches and when I would "get ready" I would bring mine in the bathroom with me and he would too. I would brush my teeth and he would clean his feathers while I did my hair and make up, he really loves this. It is amazing how resilient they are. Just remember he is so much more happy than he was before. Also sit by the cage or bring the cage to you while you are reading or watching TV. Good luck