Mary and Isabelle

[mary]

Hello Everyone,
I found out from Grandma that Isabelle is an Indian Ringneck. I'm pretty sure that is what she said. Maybe it will help. She has been getting on my hand when I put it to her. Only a couple bites. But it seem like she isn't so mean, because the couple times she did get me I thought it would be bad, but it wasn't. She has begun flying though. Which feathers need to be clipped. Can I do it myself carefully? I would like to take her out to garden, but the last time I took her to school, she flew far away, I was very lucky to get her back before she went too high. She has also been showing an interest in my computer, the keyboard specifically. When I am typing, she goes down on the number pad and walks all over. I am curious about toys. Are there things I can put together around the house, I think she gets board when I am at school.

[Crebain]

Ringnecks are cool! If she nips you, TRY not to pull back or wince, she'll be less likely to bite if she sees it doesn't bother you.

Trim only the tips of the longest 3 or 4 feathers, Graehstone has a cool diagram.

My birds all liked bells as toys ... hope this helps.

[smallonion]

HI Mary,

What color is your indian ringneck? They are gorgeous birds.

You can clip your bird's feathers yourself, but it is VERY IMPORTANT to watch a professional do it first. I'm sure a vet would be happy to explain as she does the clipping.

My Humphrey LOVES keyboards, too! He also thinks the lid of my husband's laptop (when it's open) is the best perch around.

THere are lots of toys you can make. Many birds like shoelaces, other birds like the cardboard tubes from the inside of toilet paper - they can shred them. What I did for Humphrey was cut the tube into 'rings' and hung up three of them on one shoe lace. He enjoys chewing it. Another great toy is natural branches - you'll have to search to find out which ones are safe for your bird. They are great because many birds love gnawing them and ripping the bark off.

If I think of anything else I'll let you know!
Michele and Humphrey