I just wanted to post an update on what I once thought would be my first cockatiel. Piper has been with us for 9 months now. He has quite the big personality, big temper and has no problem letting you know what he wants and when. He has a way of communicationg those things to you that my other parrots don't even come close to.
Well 9 months later and he still hates me. I have accepted the fact that he probably will never like me, and that's okay with me. Ihave no idea why he feels as he does, but I have come to terms with it with no sadness on my part. After all, those of us that have parrots clearly understand that you can't force a bond or love, or a like on them.
Anytime I go near him to change his water and give fresh food or snacks, or to close up his cage at night and cover him for bed, he hisses and spits at me, I actually find it very amusing and giggle when he does.
He adores my daughter, I told her he is HER bird and although I do the daily care, she cleans his cage and spends time with him. She brings him to the ou ter and shares her breakfast with him. When I walk by, he hides next to the potty basket as though I can't see him....) My youngest son and my daughters boyfriend has been accepted into the Piper I Like You Club, they can handle him and he is fine with them.
Another cute the g he does, is every time he hears my daughter opening the garage door as sheis driving up the driveway, he screams until she comes inside and says hi to him.....I don't know how he knows it's her, but he does....incredibly smart!!!!
Okay, just wanted to share the update........I don't need another bird, I am at my max, probably a bit over with 6 birds, working 3 jobs and the dogs and cats and kids.....but the way I see it, is I made the commitment, and I owe it to them all to make it work and provide them with the best care I can and spend the most time I can with them, and it is working for now!