New CAG - BirdBoard.Com - Parrot Message Board & Pet Bird Owner Forums

lgwatson · #1 (**permalink**) 02-15-2005, 03:09 AM

I have a new CAG he is about 8 months old he has been in a pet store for a bit, and seems not to like to be touched, he will get up on my hand but, he sometimes tries to bite me even after getting up. Any ideas on how to help him kick the biting habit? He does not like to be touched on the head or anywhere, not sure if he wasn't hurt somewhere in the pet store, cause he is missing a toe/nail. but that doesn't seem to bother him. looks like it healed up pretty well. Any suggestions on how to get him to feel more relaxed at my house.

Franciscus · #2 (**permalink**) 02-15-2005, 03:23 AM

I don't think it's uncommon for greys to not enjoy petting. I think it's more a need for us to pet them than anything. Parrots do preen each other on the head and neck areas where they can't preen themselves. My timneh only like to be pet on ocasion, usually in the evening. I would not force it, let him indicate when she'd like for you to give him a headscratch. As far as the biting is concerned, is it when you are petting him? If so he's trying to tell you he's not enjoying it. It may be that he's just beaking. When playing with himn have something for him to bite in your hand. If he does bite you, gently but firmly say "No" and offer the item you have in your hand for him to bite. You did not indicate how long you have had him. Perhaps he is not bonded with you yet, it may need a bit of time. I would recommend a book called "Guide to a Well-Behaved Parrot" by Mattie Sue Athan, published by Barrons. It is excellent, as are books by Sally Blanchard. Here is Sally's website: http://www.companionparrot.com

Make sure he is getting 10-12 hours of dark uninterupted sleep every night. He may be a little crabby due to lack of sleep. Also make sure the cage is placed in a spot he can hide out if he wants to. In a corner with a view of a window but not directly in front of the window is ideal.

greyburd · #3 (**permalink**) 02-15-2005, 05:51 AM

I definitely echo Franks suggestion on getting the "Guide to a Well-Behaved Parrot" book. I just picked it up over the weekend. And so far, it's very good reading.

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