Taming a bird is all about patience and trust. You cannot rush it, and you must never force it — but with short, gentle daily sessions, most birds learn to enjoy your company.
Start by letting it settle
A new or nervous bird needs time to feel safe first. For the first days, simply sit near the cage and talk softly, without reaching in. Let the bird get used to your presence, voice and movements before you ask anything of it. Rushing this stage sets taming back.
Win trust with treats
Once the bird is calm around you, offer a favourite treat such as millet through the cage bars. When it takes food from you confidently, progress to offering the treat on your flat hand inside the cage. This teaches the bird that your hand means good things, not danger.
Teach step-up, and keep it positive
Next, gently encourage the bird to step onto your finger for a treat, pressing lightly against its lower chest so it steps up. Reward every success, keep sessions short and daily, and end on a good note. Never grab, chase or punish a bird — it destroys trust and makes taming far harder.