It’s true: cockatoos are beautiful, playful birds in the parrot family, full of personality and charm that makes them wonderful pets. Seeing how these feathered friends can live up tp 25 years, that means building a trusting bond with them is all the more important. However, understanding your pet bird can sometimes be tricky. That’s why we gathered 7 signs your pet cockatoo trusts you, so you’ll know exactly what behaviors to look out for that show they feel comfortable with you and love you.

Of course, trust is something that you have to build and it doesn’t happen overnight. Though, the good news is, cockatoos are naturally drawn to humans. “Most cockatoos form extremely strong pair bonds—even stronger than in most other parrots—so a companion bird seeks the same relationship with a human,” says Rosemary Low, parrot expert and author of 30 books on parrots.

In fact, cockatoos are sometimes called “velcro” birds due to their affectionate nature and desire to be close to humans. That’s why spending quality time with your pet cockatoo, as well as offering them love and attention, and understanding their unique cockatoo behavior is key to creating a strong, trusting bond. With that in mind, here are the biggest signs your pet cockatoo trusts you, according to experts.

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7 Signs Your Cockatoo Trusts You

Every cockatoo is also an individual, and each will show their trust in slightly different ways. Here’s how to tell if your cockatoo trusts you or not through a cockatoo’s behavior and body language. Once you recognize these signs that your cockatoo is comfortable with you, you’ll be able to have a stronger connection.

Your Cockatoo Vocalizes When You’re Around

You know your cockatoo’s go-to vocalizations better than anyone. But a cockatoo will tend to vocalize more when you’re around if they trust you, says Tara M. Harrison, DVM, professor of Zoo and Exotic Animal Medicine at NC State College of Veterinary Medicine. That may mean mimicking you or whistling.

Your Cockatoo Cuddles With You

One of the sweetest signs your pet cockatoo trusts you is when they snuggle up and cuddle. Hand-reared cockatoos or birds raised from a young age tend to do this more often, Low says, while older cockatoos may take a bit longer to feel comfortable enough to get close. Regardless of age, most cockatoos will only cuddle with humans they truly trust, making this affectionate bird behavior a clear sign of a strong cockatoo-human bond. How sweet!

Your Pet Seems Interested in You

A pet cockatoo that truly trusts you will want to know what’s going on in your world. Harrison says this can show up as following you around the room, watching your movements, or even “talking” to you with chirps and whistles. This curiosity and attention are clear signs of a strong cockatoo-human relationship and indicate your feathered friend feels safe and connected to you.

Your Bird Raises Its Crest

One charming way a pet cockatoo shows trust is by raising its crest when it’s excited or happy to see you. While flat feathers usually signal a relaxed bird, Low says a raised crest is often a sign that your pet cockatoo feels safe and delighted to be near you. This subtle gesture is a fun and unmistakable part of cockatoo behavior that signals a strong bond with their human.

Your Cockatoo Comes to You

A trusting cockatoo will usually come to you when you open their cage, according to Harrison. But be aware that every bird is different when it involves coming back to you while flying around. “If your bird trusts you, they’ll more likely come to you, but it’s not a guarantee,” Harrison says. If, say, your phone rings or another pet startles your bird, it could throw them off, she points out.

Your Cockatoo Listens to You

Another Cockatoo trust sign is if they listen to you. A trusting pet cockatoo is more likely to respond to your cues and follow gentle guidance. Harrison notes that while some cockatoos can be a bit stubborn, birds who listen and cooperate often have a stronger bond with their human. Paying attention to your instructions and responding positively shows that your cockatoo trusts you and values your relationship.

Cockatoos Nibbles On Your Ear

One more adorable sign your pet cockatoo trusts you is gentle nibbling on your ear, cheek, or fingers. Low says this cockatoo behavior is a clear display of trust and affection, showing that your feathered friend feels safe and connected to you. These sweet little gestures are part of cockatoo bonding and a sure sign that your bird truly loves spending time with you.

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How to Strengthen Your Bond With Your Pet Cockatoo

If you want to build even more trust with your pet cockatoo, focus on keeping every interaction positive. Harrison recommends offering treats, gentle attention, or calming moments to make your bird feel safe and happy.

It’s also important to let your cockatoo come to you on its own instead of forcing interactions. “Sometimes people try to force things, which can make the bird concerned or scared,” Harrison says. Giving your bird space to approach you on its own helps strengthen your cockatoo-human bond naturally.

And if you ever feel unsure about your bird’s trust or notice unusual behavior, it’s always a good idea to check in with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice to help you foster a stronger, happier, and more trusting relationship with your feathered friend.

Sources:

• Rosemary Low, parrot expert, former curator of birds of Loro Parque, Tenerife, and author of 30 books on birds

• Tara M. Harrison, DVM, professor of Zoo and Exotic Animal Medicine at NC State College of Veterinary Medicine

This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the Birds section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.