Getting Comfortable with Petting

Getting Comfortable with Petting
You can do a little bit of training to get your bird more comfortable with the idea of being petted. As with other forms of training, practice in short frequent sessions and stick to small steps at first.

Choose a quiet time when your bird is relaxed.
Keep your hand in full view of the bird.
Speak to your bird before petting him or her.
Try just lightly touching and petting the beak at first.
If your bird lets you touch his/her beak, try gradually moving your fingers to the skin on the face just behind the beak.
Use a very gentle touch.
Work your way around the side of the head.
Work with the natural orientation of the feathers -- petting the "wrong way" can be irritating. Pet either in the direction the feathers naturally lay down, or gently scratch side to side between the feathers.
Eventually, as the bird relaxes (a bird that is enjoying being petted will often ruffle its feathers and bow its head) you can work your way around to the back of the head and neck.
Don't try to force your bird to like petting.
Don't expect your bird to accept petting from strangers.
Not Too Much, and Stick With the Head
A good cuddle is nice for you and your bird, but it is a good idea to avoid excessive petting and to avoid petting the back and body of your bird. A mature bird may find this stimulating and may result in a sexually frustrated bird, which in turn may lead to behavior issues. Make sure petting doesn't become the only way to interact with your bird; ensure you are socializing with your bird in other ways (tricks, games, exploring, toys, talking, just being together).