If you pet your parakeet only to notice that suddenly his eyes are fully shut and he looks asleep, don't worry that he's brushing you off or that you're boring him. In birdie world, closed eyes are in many ways the greatest compliment -- a sign of sincere appreciation.
Joy
If your parakeet closes his eyes when you touch him, it usually indicates that he feels 100 percent cozy and safe while in your presence -- a true honor. He's taking great pleasure in your petting, and may even tilt his head downward as a way of encouraging even more of it. This cutie knows that you have no intention of harming him.
Other Hints
During petting sessions, joyous and comfy parakeets may also give off other useful hints that show just how they're feeling. He may elevate the wee feathers on the sides of his face, for example. He also may press the bottom and top parts of his beak together.
Just One Eye Shut
If only one of your parakeet's eyes appears to be shut when you touch him, it still means that the little guy is comfy and in "serene" mode. However, the fact that he's leaving a single eye open -- usually the one further away from you -- may indicate that he still feels the need to be vigilant regarding his surroundings.
Wide Open Eyes
Wide open eyes in parakeets and other birds, however, tends to point to the polar opposite of relaxation and happiness. If your parakeet's eyes remain open and blink-free, it often signifies anxiety, fear and uncertainty. Apart from lack of blinking, birds also frequently widen or decrease the size of their pupils when they're frightened, inquisitive or worried about the situation at hand. As with humans, the patterns of birds' eyes can communicate a lot regarding their present emotions.
Veterinarian Appointment
If your parakeet's eyes always seem to be shut, even when you're not touching him, it may be an indication of sickness. Set up an appointment with an avian veterinarian to figure out what may be the cause for his often-closed peepers.