Attack of the blood parrots

So in my research for blood parrots, I have seen some people report that their BPs try to "bite" their arms and hands when doing tank maintenance. I have never had a large fish before, or a fish that tried to attack me, and this really freaks me out. How common is it that BPs try to attack you when you've got body parts in their tank??

 

Probably not common at all, as their mouths are so deformed they cannot bite anything. They may bump into you, but I would not worry about any injury because they are such a slow-moving fish.

 

Hello,

I consider them kisses and not bites. I have never been harmed by my Bloody Parrots in the past 15 years. My largest to date has been 10" (L) x 8" (T). Their mouth area is so soft it is amazing.

They can be a bit more aggressive during mating time but still, no harm done to my hand or arm.

Thread moved to Hybrid Fish/Parrot Cichlid section of the forum.

Thanks!

Ken

 

Thank you for the replies, happygolucky and Aquarist! That is really good to hear. I was starting to get scared. LOL!

 

I've got one that likes to chase after my hand/arm when I'm cleaning the tank. It scares you more than hurts I'd say. My brothers parrots do the same to him. I bought a pair of long gloves that I wear now so it doesn't bother me anymore. Puts the fear factor right to bed!!

 

Gloves! Yes! I will be getting some gloves. LOL

 

The ones I bought were on Amazon for under $12 - They're big and yellow and actually have some grit to the palm and fingers so it doubles as a glass cleaner!!
Trust me... you'll love them!
arty0011:

 

The only time I've been bitten by mine is when they spawned a bunch of eggs that I didn't see right away. I was doing tank maintenance and one of them got me when I got too close. Didn't hurt, so if he meant business, he didn't do any damage. It sure scared the heck out of me though.