Only provide meals indoors then they will always return with out too much fuss. Do expect some chew damage around the windows and any other parts they can reach, our Greys at the Sanctuary took apart outside lights, Hardyboard wall trim and in general did more damage than the Macaws the lived inside the same enclosure for years.
My guess is preening can be a social activity, our Too's just love when daughter brushes her hair (down to knees) so do the cats. The Too's want to be brushed and the Greys seem to think of her hair as her wings and get excited when she lifts her hair outwards & up, very funny. One of the Greys enjoys groom hair and hiding under it.
Do add an air purifier on the opposite side of your Grey than the Scarlett. Those Mac's have large nostrils that can suck in too much Grey dust and develop breathing issues later, best to be cautious and take safety measures to prevent a miserable health issue. Darn dusty birds-Grey & Cockatoos both produce much feather dust, so the air cleaner will keep you all breathing free as well.
Use only natural fabrics like 100% Cotton or Linen, Silk only as small ties so it does not thread as it could be almost invisible if it wrapped around a leg. Wool as pom pom type things or ties again to avoid wrapping around any bird parts. No nylon or man made materials.
I bought a pair of toddlers Oshkosh overalls at the resale shop. I tied cotton rope and Raffia to the straps, stitched foot toys too it and stuffed the pockets with shreddables and treats. then hung from the cage roof and they had a blast even burrowing down the legs so funny. Removed after they got it too torn up so there would be no hangings or other accidents, it lasted 2 weeks. It looked cute too!
So tough when you don't really know what you are treating, so scary when you see your baby struggling and so frightening when you can't help right away. I would remove the pellets from the diet right now as sometimes they are implicated in siezures due to the high vitamin levels. Stick with fresh foods, some seed & grains even start sprouting for your Grey. Do add at least 1 to 2 hrs of unfiltered (not through glass) Sunshine to the routine as well it can only help. Just make sure he does not overheat.
Talon is correct, it seems Greys are hatched with feet issues as well as parent birds "trimming" their toes or feet through either inexperience or just very bad parenting. Don't stress out over the feathers or the regurge he is more likely to repeat it if he gets a strong reaction. Remember it has taken him many months or years to develop these behaviors and it will take time to overcome them or replace them with healthier habits-maybe never. Patience & just love him as he is everyday. >:>
Found Bird (Burnet at Penny Lane)
Date: 2012-04-06, 2:29PM CDT
Reply to: hwphz-2944001461@comm.craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Found bird. It's definitely a house bird of some kind. Mostly grey.
It was very hungry.
Please describe it and come take it.
Thanks,
Aaron
five one two nine four five twenty-eight thirty-eight.
Location: Burnet at Penny Lane
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PostingID: 2944001461
It can mean there is a health issue related to the location where they are pulling feathers. It could be just hormonal or behavioral but do have a Certified Avian Vet. check it out to be certain
Welcome fellow Texan, you will enjoy all the stories and information you can find here. We also look forward to your getting a Grey to share with us of course.
I believe that they want to do the best possible for the bird but still comply with parents wishes, the proverbial rock and a hard place for some one not of age not in their own space. No bad intentions just problem solving-no I do not like the idea.