Please help with Phobic African Grey

[Pionus]

I have had my female CAG since November and she has been a sweet cuddly bird...always stepping up to me and my husband. About a month ago my husband went to put her on her play stand and he tried to pet her and she got spooked and fell to the floor screaming. we had never seen this before. She had fallen before but I always said "step up" and she did. This time she was frantic. We eventually had to pick her up with a towel because I thought maybe she was hurt. (and we could not get her to step up)
Once in her cage she stopped screaming and acted ok. However, every time we came near her cage she would lower herself and her wings and throttle them like she was going to fly..(not flapping) Her eyes looked "terrified"
When I tried to pick her up or come closer it made it worse..she would throw herself to the bottom of her cage and even on her back screaming. I left her alone for several days and would come as close as she would let me without her looking afraid. We have tried two more times to take her out and it was horrible..broken feathers..me fearing that I am going to hurt her. I just do not know what to do. I feel so bad for her. I sit by her cage and read to her and talk to her and she doesnt seem as afraid unless I start to open the cage..then I stop. She will take treats from my hand through the bars.
I cannot stand to see her like this. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Has anyone ever experienced this?

[Tinna]

I don't own an african gray, however since you just posted this if you wait until around 3 tomorrow most of the members will have come around and there will be plenty of info for you. =) Hang in there!

[Lisa B]

hiya. She is terrified of something. Has something in the room changed? something with you change? The littlest thing can set them off.
I suggest you open her cage, sit on the ground and read to her. You will have to start all over again. I know how your heart is hurting, but it has to be worked through to stop it. Other wise it becomes habit.
If you can not calm her down, I suggest a behaviorist. ONLY because this is someone who has dealt with it several times, as compared to some of us online who may have had it once. (or not at all)

I will keep checking this thread and on you. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to PM me. please keep us updated, and keep plenty of treats on hand. Its not something thats going to change overnight. It’s going to be gradual and take patience.