Excessive Vocalisation in Parrots: Why It Happens and How to Manage It

Excessive Vocalisation in Parrots: Why It Happens and How to Manage It

Why Do Parrots Scream?

Parrots are naturally loud animals. In the wild, they call out to their flock to communicate across long distances. However, excessive screaming in a home can be frustrating and often means your parrot is trying to tell you something. With some changes in behaviour and environment, you can help reduce unwanted screaming.

Parrots scream for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Boredom or lack of stimulation
  • Wanting attention
  • Hunger or discomfort
  • Hormonal changes
  • Reacting to loud or sudden noises
  • ‘Flock calls’, which are normal vocalisations used to communicate within their flock

When Is It a Problem?

Screaming is a concern when it becomes excessive, frequent, or disruptive to your household. If it’s accompanied by other changes such as feather plucking or aggression, a vet visit is recommended to rule out medical causes.

How to Reduce Excessive Screaming

Here are ways to reduce or manage your parrot’s screaming:

  • Stay calm and avoid reacting to the screaming or yelling (this can reinforce the behaviour, or be interpreted as flock calling)
  • Reward quiet moments with treats, praise, or attention
  • Provide plenty of toys and activities to reduce boredom
  • Establish a daily routine to help your parrot feel secure

Training a Flock Call

Parrots call out to find their flock, and if you don’t answer, they may scream louder. You can train a gentle ‘flock call’ to reassure your bird you’re nearby:

  • Choose a short, soft sound like a whistle or word (e.g. “Hello”)
  • Use the call consistently when entering or leaving a room
  • Wait for a pause in the screaming before using the call, to avoid rewarding the noise
  • Over time, your parrot may begin using the soft flock call instead of screaming


Some noise is normal for parrots, but excessive vocalisation can usually be improved with training and enrichment. If the behaviour continues or worsens, we recommend booking a consult to assess for underlying behavioural or medical issues.

Concerned your bird is excessively vocalising? 

If your bird is excessively vocalising or showing unusual behaviours, The Wild Vet is here to help. You can book a general health consultation to rule out any underlying medical issues, or for more complex cases, we offer comprehensive behaviour consultations tailored to your bird’s needs.

If you’re ready to Book, or if you have any questions, give us a call on 1300 WILD VET (1300 945 383)