How do I greet my new buddy?

[BobbieSD]

I will be getting a new Goffin in about 3 weeks, shipped via Delta. What is the best way to greet a baby? When I get home, do I open the crate and let him come out, or try to get him out? (I have cockatoo experience, but now one this young). Also-I have read lots of stories of Goffins reverting. The breeder will not release until a vet approves, but how should I prepare?

[Conure & Macaw Mom]

Congrats on your new baby. I don't have a too but when I got my other birds I was told to put them in their cage, make sure they have food & water & let them settle in. Crystal

[Bonesy]

Usually it's best to open the crate & let the bird come out in it's own time in a subdued light room.

[BobbieSD]

Thanks-that helps

[KimBear]

How old is the baby? That might make a difference. Hopefully he's already weaned?

Probably he will be freaked out by the trip, and may be afraid of you peering in at him, even if he's not afraid of people in general. He will have had a lot of jostling around and been exposed to lots of noises.

I don't recommend letting him out while you're in the car. Wait until you get home. Then it would be a good idea to just open the carrier and let him venture out on his own. Sit right there near him so you can pick him up and put him in his cage. If he doesn't come out after 10 minutes or so, you may need to reach in for him. If you can take the whole top off the carrier that would probably be less scary for him compared to having to go through the tiny little front door these carriers often have.

Have all his stuff set up already, and place him in his cage once he's out of his carrier. Then just let him be for a while. If he doesn't seem too frightened, pull up a chair and sit near him, but don't let too many people crowd around him at once. Mostly you will take it as you see it: If he's really nervous, you will need to be more cautious than if he seems to take everything in really well.

[BobbieSD]

Thank you very much! He will be 14 weeks old when I get him, with a promise to be fully weaned.