[Addicted to Tequila]

Ok...

I will post more on how I got these guys later. But... "Lucy... we has a problem!"

The new 1 year old cherry-head/mitered conure was handled by a hesitater. You know the sort. As soon as the bird would put it's beak out to step up (which he is MORE than willing to do!)... the person would think he was going to bite and would pull away.

Now he has the lovely habit of lunging and then holding on for dear life as he steps up. I have dealt with these guys before... and usually they stop once they get the idea that you are "stable" and will NOT be tearing the arm away. Not this one. I am COVERED in bruises from thumb to elbow!

I tried wrapping a towel around before asking... he bit even harder! He does not break the skin (he did on his last owner... the hesitater) so I DO have hope. He is actually used to being picked up by the neck!!! I am unsure that I like that idea... even though he uses a foot to steady himself when you do it.

He will also lay on his back for a good 15 minutes while I rub his tummy or play with his feet (which is good... his nails are over an inch long!!!). He really IS a trusting guy... he just needs a bit of work.

I still have one good arm... but then I am sunk.

Any other suggestions?
(Yes... he will step up on a dowel... but that is sliding backwards a bit I think. It is not that he is viscous... he just knows not what he does!)