danmcq

Not sure if it's possible, but you should let your husband should not handle Yoshi in my opinion, for his and Yoshi's sake. A large angry adult can do serious damage to a 1 pound bird with hollow bones. Yoshi will be fine, but may hate your husband even more now and the next time he tries to get her could end up with Yoshi attacking even more than this first time.

Poor Spock. They certainly do show a deficiency issue. I pray the new vet finds the culprit and gets spock on the path to complete wellness.

Hang in there Spock. A fresh look by a second set of eyes connected to another human brain that thinks of different possibilities is always a wise way to go. Please keep us posted on your new vet visit.

Ah ha, your one of those rebels then.

Hahahahahahahahahahaha, been through that phase.....OUCH! The good news, is they finaly figure it out before they surgically snip off a finger with the diagonal pliers they have called a beak to hang on with. Thanks for sharing this.

If you have the means, save that grey! I would imagine if you let her have your old cage which I am sure is an upgrade compared to what she is now in. Greywings advice on a check up is spot on as well as her other comments.

Awww, how cute! Good job on getting the first perfect tail feather sprouted! No doubt many more will follow now with Jay amd Maggies loving care.

A humdifier in the bird area will keep the dander more moist, which means heavier and it will be more likely to fall to the floor more often than continuing to float around. Also, misting your cage florr before pulling out to clean will keep the dander and feathers from floating away as you take it out to clean. As others said, keeping you birds bathed and misted with aloe helps reduce it as well. One note on new world parrots like macaws and zons. The dander put off by our greys can and does affect their respiratory systems at some level. Some more than others. Jayd - Feather up your Nose....Hahahahahahahahaha.......Hahahahahahahahahahahaha, thanks for the morning laugh!

Here is a an official write up by the CDC on West Nile Virus spread. One thing I find of importance, is it seems Old World Parrots are not as suseptable to this diease as new world Parrots, poultry seems to not be harmed by it at all and the Family Corvid's (Crows) seem to be the most suseptable. One thing I gleaned from this article, is Mosquitoes do in fact bite birds and thus the cycle of disease transmission spreads. The write up: Migratory Birds and West Nile Virus in the Old World Migratory birds have long been suspected as the principal introductory hosts of West Nile virus into new regions for the following reasons: Outbreaks of the virus in temperate regions generally occur during late summer or early fall, coinciding with the arrival of large concentrations of migratory birds (and mosquitoes) (18-20); these outbreaks often occur among humans living in or near wetlands where high concentrations of birds come into contact with large numbers of ornithophilic mosquitoes (7,21,22); the principal vectors from which the virus has been isolated are mainly ornithophilic mosquitoes (Culex univittatus in the Middle East and C. pipiens in Europe) (7,13,14,18,22); antibodies to the virus have been found in the blood of many migratory bird species in Eurasia (14,15,22-24); migratory birds have been linked with transporting related viruses in the Western Hemisphere (9,25,26); West Nile virus has been isolated from some species of actively migrating birds (e.g., the Barred Warbler [Sylvia risoria] in Cyprus and the Turtle Dove [Streptopelia turtur] in Slovakia (20,23,24); viremia sufficiently long-term to infect vector mosquitoes has been documented in several bird species (18,19,27-29); and migration places substantial physiologic stress on birds. Stress has been shown to promote immunosuppression and enhanced replication of West Nile virus in rodents (30). Further support for the possibility that migratory birds play a major role in virus transport comes from study of related viruses. For instance, both Eastern (EEE) and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis alphaviruses, ecologic relatives of West Nile virus, have been isolated from actively migrating birds in the United States (25,26). Evidence also indicates that the 1962 epidemic of EEE in Jamaica resulted from transport of the virus by birds from the continental United States (31). Unlike the 1999 New York City epidemic, during which large numbers of dead and dying birds, especially crows, were observed concurrently with clinical reports of human infection with the virus (3), the Old World epidemics of West Nile virus had few concurrent reports of deaths of infected birds (7). This difference could indicate lack of both exposure and adaptation to the virus among New World avian populations compared with Old World species. Old World data indicate that susceptibility to fatal infection with the virus varies markedly for adult and young birds, with high death rates in juvenile and high incidence of circulating antibodies in adult birds (19). Susceptibility to infection also varies considerably among species. Hooded Crows (Corvus corone) had both a high death rate in young birds in laboratory experiments and high levels of circulating antibodies in adults, while Rock Doves (Columba livia) appeared to be much less susceptible to both infection and death from the virus (19). Migratory Birds and West Nile Virus in the New World As was the case for humans, the first birds documented as infected with West Nile virus in the Western Hemisphere were identified in August 1999 (6). Thereafter, large die-offs of wild and captive birds at the Bronx Zoo and other parts of the New York area coincided with the increasing number of human cases reported from the same region (1,4,6). As in several European outbreaks, the main vector in the New York City epidemic was identified as the ornithophilic mosquito C. pipiens (4). Furthermore, the outbreak in humans occurred at urban sites near wetlands where migratory birds, ornithophilic mosquitoes, and humans were concentrated. These circumstances, in conjunction with the ecology of the virus in the Old World, support the conjecture that zoo, pet, domestic, or wild birds were responsible for introducing the virus to the New World. If so, birds could have served as the source by normal migration, displacement from normal range by storms, or importation (legal and illegal). Normal Interhemispheric Migration A small percentage of the populations of a few bird species migrate regularly in August and September from breeding grounds in the Old World to wintering grounds along the eastern seaboard of North America. An example of this group is the Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope), which breeds across the entire Palearctic region from Iceland to Siberia's Kamchatka Peninsula and winters primarily in the temperate and tropical zones of the Old World (32), where contact with West Nile virus is possible. However, a few Eurasian Wigeons, presumably from the Icelandic breeding population, winter regularly along the coast of eastern North America (32,33). These birds could contract the virus from vector mosquitoes infected by biting other members of the breeding population that winter in areas where West Nile virus is prevalent and bring infectious blood to the New World on their winter migrations. Eurasian Wigeons are not the only species with such a migration pattern. Eurasian populations of several species in which evidence of exposure (e.g., antibodies) to the virus has been detected are rare migrants along the eastern seaboard of North America (Table 1). However, if normal migration were a likely pathway, the virus would likely have become established earlier in this hemisphere, since individual birds of several species known to be susceptible to the virus migrate annually from Eurasia to the United States (Table 1). However, the numbers of migrants are so small that the probability of the cooccurrence of an infectious migrant, ornithophilic vector mosquitoes, and numerous avian amplifying hosts seems low. Furthermore, the most likely form of the virus carried by migrants would be that from West Africa, because that is where most western European-breeding populations of these species winter. The New York City strain of the virus was nearly identical to that found in the Middle East, which is different from the West African strain (13). Despite these considerations, normal migration remains a distinct possibility as the mode of entry for the disease.

I know Chelsea, they are saying this is one of the worst years for Mosquitoes in decades due to the continued rain, ground soaked and pools of stagnant water lying around in too many areas for the abatement control to keep up with. There is no way to stop a rogue mosquito in the house. I have no clue how that "One gets in every once in a while, but they do. Perhaps as we open doors to go out and in one whisks by. The good news, is in the heat of the day in the valley, mosquitos are not normally out in swarms. It is the early morning an evening hours that are filled wth them actively performing their vampish evil deed. I will roll the cages out during the late morning when it's 90 and give the birds some sun and a shower for about an hour. At nnight, as always when the biirds are caged, both are completely covered and I doubt that one rogue mosquito will get to them, normally it's me or my wife that might get bit. I don't know if you have been folowing the local news but: An aerial survey of Visalia indicates there will be more pools to stock with mosquito-eating fish. Last year, workers in Visalia treated about 1,000 pools. Homeowners are not charged for the fish or the service. The same conditions hold for the Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District. Manager Tim Phillips had hoped for less pool work this year, "but we haven't seen that yet," he said. His office has a list of 1,325 pools to inspect and possibly treat. By contrast, in 2006, workers treated 400 pools, he said. "Then it went to 900 and to 1,000 and to 1,300 -- and that's where we are now." The Consolidated Mosquito Abatement District, which covers most of Clovis, has about 900 pools identified from last year. And calls about suspected breeding pools keep coming, said Manager Steve Mulligan. This year, Mulligan said, more people who have bought foreclosed homes are calling for help. The pools are in disrepair, and new homeowners cannot yet afford to fix them, he said. Wendy Christian requested mosquitofish last week at her northeast Fresno home. When she bought the house in July, the pool had been drained. She can't fill it until it's repaired. Christian, 45, tries to keep the pool empty. But that has been a never-ending battle against the weather. "We'll drain it -- and it rains," she said. The last couple of weeks, several feet of water collected in the deep end, and she called Consolidated. "We love to spend time in our backyard, but we're being eaten alive by mosquitoes," Christian said. It's difficult to predict exactly how severe West Nile virus will be this spring and summer, state health officials say. But there will be more mosquito breeding habitats than typical because of the winter rains. As the snow pack melts, rivers in the Valley will swell, creating new places for mosquitoes to nest. And federal officials have refilled the dry parts of the San Joaquin River as part of a vast restoration program. The communities of Kerman, Tranquility and Mendota could be swatting more mosquitoes than usual, said Elizabeth Cline, manager of the Fresno Westside Mosquito Abatement District. Already, "tree hole" mosquitoes have been busy. These mosquitoes like to make nests in hollowed logs along riverbeds, Cline said. They don't carry West Nile virus, but they do carry heartworm, a parasite that is potentially deadly to dogs and cats, she said. All dogs and cats in the Valley should be given a preventive medication for heartworm, said Cheryl Waterhouse, a Fresno veterinarian. Horses are susceptible to West Nile virus, and a vaccine is available for them, mosquito-control officials said. But there's no vaccine for humans. People should wear protective clothing or mosquito repellent to ward off bites. As warm weather arrives, it will kick mosquito breeding season into high gear. "Mosquitoes develop faster when the weather is warmer," said Vicki Kramer, chief of the Vector-Borne Disease Section at the California Department of Public Health. Kramer reminds people to report dead birds and squirrels to the state health department. The deaths can signal that West Nile virus is active in an area, she said. The state tracks the reports -- regardless of whether the birds or squirrels are picked up for testing, she said. Mosquito-control officials said people should report abandoned and neglected pools, and survey their backyards for anything that can hold water -- wheelbarrows, buckets, old tires. "Everything that's holding water certainly is growing mosquitoes right now," said Phillips of the Fresno mosquito control district.

We have crows and other birds being picked up nnow which died from west nile virus. I will not take my birds outside when the mosquitos are active. News Quote: "County begins bird collecting, testing for West Nile virus The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) is advising residents that the West Nile virus (WNV) season is approaching. As in previous years, the OCHD will continue surveillance efforts into next fall to ensure the safety and protection of residents. Testing of birds will be done to the entire corvid family; the most common corvids in New Jersey are crows and blue jays, said Leslie Terjesen, OCHD public information officer. “County residents can help the health department control West Nile virus by reporting dead crows or blue jays that they find on their property by calling 732-341- 9700, ext. 7502, or toll free at 800-342- 9738, ext. 7502,” said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “The location of all dead crows or blue jays is recorded and can be accessed and addressed by the Ocean County Mosquito Commission.” Terjesen said, “Dead crows and blue jays will be picked up by staff from the OCHD. If residents choose to bring a dead bird to our headquarters or remove it to another area, please use gloves when handling dead birds or any wildlife.”"

Judy and Jill gave good advice. There is never a guarantee 2 greys will get along. Also, you never place 2 in a cage that have not already established a good re;ationship that is proven and even then, they may not want to sahre the same cage. Sounds wonderful, could you post a photo or 2 of this monster?

Yes, please post some photos! I loved this update and especially the portion describing Tully's full featheredness now and outgoing personality that blossomed under your loving care. I hope Jasper remains the cuddle muffin of the flock for you. Those are the most relaxing and personal moments you can have and enjoy with them. Your updates have been missed, but with that flock it's totally understandable where your time is spent.

LOL!!! You gave me my 2nd morning smiles today. YOur mother is tickelish and her laugh made me laugh along as well. Thos Greys do seem to like feet and especially toes. Thanks for sharing this.

LOL, GreYt stories of those games your Greys play! Thanks for the morning smiles.

What the others said and when the boys get older they grow a beard and the females get boobs. Just kidding, their tails also molt out and replaced with solid red feathers.

The others have given good responses. Most will not want to go back in of their own choice. Either an stick, towel or a thick over garment will normally work until they get used to the routine and expect. The easiest way, it seems from your description. Is to get a step-up when he is NOT on the cage. Use that moment to take him and place him in the cage, if you can. Even if that moment occurs for example at 7pm, rather than 9. Use it.

He may or may not truly understand, but it certanly appears that he does by his response. Obviously you consistently use that phrase each time a cage movement occurs, thus "It's ok", is what he has verbally and mentally linked to that event. I tell Dayo "It's OK", everytime something happens that he does not need to fear. Over the last few years, he will slip or see something a little scary and well assure himself verbally "It's ok Dayo". You are on the right path and your Grey is communicating to you, in my opinion. Thanks for sharing this. I appreciate all the others comments too and look forward to this being a jam packed thread with everyones experiences.

Loved it Dave. This is a sticky!!!

I am still here after 3 years, because I enjoy reading about others Parrots, the great group of people that are and helping others if I can. I came to this forum before I had decided to get a grey. Soon after wards, I started visiting Dayo at the breeders when he was just 6 weeks old. Regardless of a few wanting to start negative comments, I still enjoy this forum and many times stop reading a thread once it becomes negative, unless it becomes so out of control that I or Penny decide to just lock it and stop the madness. I have learned a ton about Greys since joining this forum and still learn something new almost everyday from reading experiences others have with theirs. No one Grey is the same in personality, food likes etc. or issues that come up at times. We all learn through others. I have seen many people come and go over these last 3 years. It is just something that goes on in every forum and will never end. There are all types of personalities out there and sometimes they just can't get along for very long with people.or deal with being told a different point of view exists. Each person has a different point of view on almost everything in life. WE ,must learn and grow through considering those other points of view. This is because no one point of view is normally 100 percent correct and or complete. Different points of view normally brings out things others had perhaps not thought of and thus increases the knowledge they were previously lacking or perhaps brings out a fact that perhaps we have prejudices against something unjustifiably so.

Sometimes, the mental processes, emotions and speech capabilities of these Grey's just blow me away. I would like to hear others stories as well and keep this thread active, if possible. Today: Early this morning I let Dayo (CAG) and Jake (Conure) out of their cages, went through the good morning and high fives ritual. I then went out the back sliding glass door and did about 20 minutes of chores in view through the windows which both birds watch out of. When I came back in, I immediately walked over, sat down and turned the PC on to check things online. In 30 seconds, Dayo about 15 feet away on the Kitchen counter states "Shoot!"...."GOD!"..... "I'm on the Computer"...."Want some Apple and Grape". I look over in shock at his clear verbal indication that he was totally disappointed in my actions upon coming back in the house and not doing my normal task of chopping up veggies and fruit first thing. He was staring straight at me and obviously waiting for my acknowledgment. Which I did by saying "Oh, sorry, lets get some veggies and fruit" and proceeded to perform that task. I have truly been trying to multi-task mentally and pay attention to what he is saying no matter what I am doing. My theory is, if they are communicating to us and we do not respond with an appropriate statement back or action, they will decide their communication is either wrong or not affective and not be as eager to try and clearly communicate using words and phrases what they want or think. It still boggles my mind that his clear disappointment (Emotional) was clearly indicated just like that of when my children were young and disappointed we didn't do what they were expecting.

Welcome sunshine! Julie gave you great advice. Go see the grey first and get more information from the owner about what may have lead to that grey preferring the cage over being free to roam about and interact with her. It's always good if you know what baggage they are coming with and why. As Julie said, the grey is cage bound presently and it is HIS space and does not welcome fingers pocking in at him and invading his space. I am looking forward to hearing how the visit went and more information you may have on him.

They do this at this at times with no apparent explanation other than they are just feeling a little pteradactyl at the moment. I guess the spider could not be ruled out though. That would be hard to say one way or the other. I always wish I could this type of behavior on camera. But, those moments are short and the camera is normally not even in the room at that moment in time.

Perfect plan to get ozzie associating words with actions and items. Never stop being consistent with those, whether you ever hear them repeated or not. I guarnatee you, he will know what each means whether he ever uses them or not.

They sound like a normal pair of new birds getting used to one another. Get photos and video if you can. It sounds like both are enjoying being around another grey, even if it's at a careful state right now. Are they interacting verbally at all?