RickM

Hi Everyone! I was just browsing the web for a few queries about my African Grey, called Jack and stumbled upon this great forum...so I thought I would introduce you all to my friend. Jack is a hand-reared 6 year old African Grey. He has been in my family since he was about 6 months old. Whilst he is VERY friendly to me (regurgitates food, climbs on my head and tries to dangle down to feed me, and has complete trust in me), he hates my parents and sister, and always has done. He will happily give my mum a kiss when its bed time, but any other time, you have a good chance of having a hole pierced in your nose or lip (and it has happened!!). I just wanted to ask people a few questions if thats ok: 1) I'm looking at getting him some new toys as he's destroyed all his current ones. Is there a 'great toy' out there that people love, or is everyone sticking to what is on offer at the pet store? 2) Baths. We have a decent sized purple water bowl, and when anyone turns the vacuum cleaner on, he thinks its bath time, so struggles to get in this little bowl and have a bath. I've looked around for YEARS for a proper bath for parrots, but only ever find budgie ones, which are too small. Any ideas? 3) Anyone know how to get him to talk in front of people? If he's alone he'll talk all day, but when people are around him (even me) he is silent. 4) About 2 weeks ago, he flew into a mirror, and fell to the floor. He had a few feathers come out, and he was a little shaken, but seemed ok after that. When I got him out the next day, he was unable to fly, and still cant fly. Am I right in saying its because he has lost a bunch of tail feathers? He doesnt seem distressed or hurt, and I've examined his wings. Thanks everyone! Attached a couple of photos