Hello all, I am glad I have found a community that seems so close to one another. My name is Kevin, I grew up with my grandparents who taught each family member that animals are not pets and shouldn't be treated like it. Instead each animal is a part of the family, you wouldn't mistreat your family so you will not mistreat your new addition to the family. I grew up along side a Goffin Cockatoo, Umbrella Cockatoo, and Double Yellow-Headed Amazon. Every chance I get I go back to the house to visit and spend time with each.
I believe there are one to many birds that need new homes, so I've been looking at adopting. I know this territory can be rough and training a mishandled bird can be hard, but I believe with patience and love everything will turn around.
I was browsing a website and came across a African Grey up for adoption, so I called with a list of questions. The grey was DNA tested as a male and all blood work has been preformed, the grey is healthy and no mutilation or plucking. After discussing feeding habits, cage size, toys, bed times, activities..I came across the behavior questions. The bird loves to listen to music and has no problem in his cage, however it has been disclosed to me that the bird was a breeder and no longer has a mate. It bites when a hand enters the cage and shows aggression. My thoughts are there was a bond with it's mate and no longer a bond with the current owners.
I understand this can be a handle full, but I believe this can be changed. I plan on sitting in the room with the bird and talking (for vocal recognition). After awhile start getting the bird comfortable with my hand in the cage (just sitting near the opening), and may bring some treats into play. It may take some time to get the bird to bond but I believe if this grey had someone love him that he may turn around.
Here some quick answers for those who may ask. Yes I am young (age 25), I work at home as I sell salt water coral (all tanks have lids, chemicals kept in a safe under key and lock). No I've never owned a large bird, I've shared my room growing up with the Goffin Cockatoo, and every day I spent time with her. I currently own a miniature pincher (loves birds, but stays clear away), adopted a mean sugar glider--but with love that has change very much :-)).
Please tell me if you think I may be going overboard...if you think I should walk away.