Regurgitating Macaw - What is the issue?

[Congobongo]

So, Lola my B&G is totally in love with me and I am convinced thinks I am her mate. I have NOT encouraged this behaviour and when she does the regurgitating thing I walk away and ignore it. However, as of now that doesn't seem to discourage her from doing it.

She turns her backside to me instead of stepping up. I pull my hand away.

She likes to 'preen' my fingernails. I pull my hand away when she does that.

I guess my question is, if you don't discourage this behaviour, what are the consequences?

[LovelySydney]

I would say aggression towards other animals (pets, if you have any) because she thinks you are hers and only hers. She might try to take down others who take your attention away from her. Maybe behavioral issues down the road if you aren't acting on her sexual frustration, she might become needy or aggressive towards YOU even. I have luckily not dealt with this behavior (I guess I can say YET?) so I dont have much to offer but Im interested to see what those who have been there say. I always wondered what happens if you simply cannot stop the behavior. Good question, thanks for posting.

[silvercb67]

I'm glad you brought this up... I know what you mean & the hardest part is that I would never get to hold her as she does these things all the time. Doesn't matter if it is me or hubby holding her she still behaves this way all year it seems. We do not touch her anywhere but the head for scritches. I do everything that is required for this behavior but it still continues. I want to hear what others say about this post.

[Congobongo]

Well, my Doberman is totally jealous of her but then again, he is jealous of anything. But she and he have had their squabbles. Unbelievable to all of you, he will back down to the bird.

I just want to know. Everyone says if they regurg. for you to walk away and if they display mating behaviour discourage it. Well, what truly is the downside or the consequence if you don't?

[Greycloud]

You get a wet arm! LOL! I've had many.

[Congobongo]

OK, so is that it? I thought they would go nuts and bite your head off!

[Greycloud]

Well some can get frustrated and become agressive. Especially if you are holding them and someone else comes near you. They go into protection mode and will attack you to try and scare you off away from danger.
I had a red-lored once who was sitting on the back of the sofa, at my shoulder. My husband came over to give me a kiss before he went to the store. The zon bit me on the cheek. So my hubby learned not to come near when I had her out. The bird of course could attack the person too. My U2 masturbates and regurges for me but doesn't seem bothered if my hub comes near. So it all depends on the bird.

[Congobongo]

birquospi - WTF link did you send?

[Greycloud]

That is a troll!

[Greycloud]

That person is a troll and needs to be removed!