JeffNOK

Wonderful introduction! I can feel you enthusiasm and am so happy that your relationship with little Miss Bindi is so close. I look forward to hearing more of your life with your grey. So much is yet to come! I understand your concerns about the interaction between your grey and your Great Dane. I am not sure to what degree clipping or not clipping will help. As a young dog, your Great Dane is full of energy and curiosity and due to his size he can do damage without intent. If they are in the same room, even your clipped grey can still end up near your dog--possibly on the floor and vulnerable. Ciipping might help keep you grey on perches and less inclined to explore, but it might not. Whatever you decide, I can only advise vigilant observation and supervision. My CAG Gracie lives with me without a dog, but we often visit my parents who have a Toy Fox Terrier (11 pounds--Your Dane could swallow him in two bites ) The dog is wary of Gracie and avoids her, but sometimes Gracie flies and tries to land on his head--NOT GOOD. Whenever the dog is in the room with the bird, someone is there with him to deflect any of Gracie's landing attempts. Does your Grey seek out the dog? Is Bindi actively engaging your dog? Does your dog seek out your grey? It seems most dogs respect the parrot and stay on the sidelines, but if your dog gets excited and wants to play--well that would be a recipe for disaster. I know you don't want to separate them or keep one or the other behind doors, but if you sense any hint of risk, that may be necessary. Clipping may seem like a solution, but I wouldn't want to you rely on that as an assurance of safety. I wish you the best and am eager to read updates.

This topic brings up a lot of issues for me. The whole idea of parrots as "pets" is still controversial for many. There are far too many who are rehomed, neglected, or end up forever in a bird rescue "unsuitable for adoption".The PBS Nature program "Parrot Confidential" seemed intended to discourage anyone from getting a parrot. Sometimes I have the tendency to get judgmental when I read ads from people who no longer have time for their birds. Inara's post could have been written by me on certain days. Much of this reaction comes from the fact that my life has been transformed and blessed beyond words by my own relationship with my CAG Gracie. I relate to her as if she is my child, so I can definitely understand the comparison to a person wanting to rehome their human ten year old kid. I realize that isn't a fair comparison, though. For most people, however, parrots are pets like dogs or cats. It would be rare for a person to judge someone looking for a new home for their canine or feline. The understanding of domestic versus wild is not something many know or understand unless they do the proper research. The understanding of parrot intelligence and social needs is also not common for many who seek to get a bird. For many, animals are "just animals". I was listening to a radio program the other day where the host said he got rid of his dog for chewing the leg of a table. This seemed perfectly reasonable for him. Chew the furniture--GONE. That is the mentality of a lot of people. Animals==well they are just animals. I don't think they are bad people for thinking this way, but I have such a different view that sometimes I want to smack them! They probably would want to smack me too for "anthropomorphizing" and giving too much value to non-humans. It comes down to basic world view--and that is nearly impossible to change. The best we can do is support those who want to provide good forever homes to those parrots who need them. Many will adjust well and live happy lives. Others will not...and it breaks my heart. Unfortunately it seems that the number of people truly educated and committed to parrots is smaller than the number of parrots sold in the pet trade. This imbalance will leave us with the problem of neglected and unwanted birds for the foreseeable future. I don't see an answer to this problem. But I understand the emotion involved. One good thing is that sometimes this forum is a good place to vent and get a little judgy. Nobody gets hurt and we qet our feelings off our chest to a mostly understanding audience.

Koko's crest really adds to the flair of the dance! It is very heartwarming to see the joy that music gives Toos. It is interesting because my CAG Gracie loves when I sing to her, and she learns the songs and sings with great gusto (no dancing or head bobbing though), but she doesn't seem to respond to music played through radio, CD, MP3, video, etc. I'm curious how other greys react to professionally produced music versus when we sing to them.

Glad you were there to help. I know it was scary, but thankfully you took matters in hand. The scariest thing that happened with my CAG Gracie was when she got tangled in a climbing net (made specifically for parrots). She was still a baby and unsure how to untangle herself. I got a nasty bite helping her, but in the end I think she learned that I would be there to rescue her. Hopefully, your grey sees you now more as a protector and rescuer. Glad it worked out with all involved happy and healthy.

It looks like a bit of chewing and overpreening. It isn't too bad. Have you tried spraying with aloe juice? My CAG Gracie had a small feather picking episode a couple months ago and aloe spray and more sunshine helped a lot.

Great testimony to trust.

Nancy, it is really great to hear about Sophie growing and changing and bonding differently as she gets older. Greys are always evolving. I continually see changes in Gracie--all good changes. It is so much like living with a maturing child. She loves you so much and you are a good mama to her. Sorry about your back though. Hope you are on the mend.

Nice to see Dayo again! I have a question for you. Does Dayo make many "parrotese" sounds? Recently I have been reading posts about our greys' vocalizations, and it seems most have greys who speak English but also vocalize in natural grey parrotese. My CAG Gracie never vocalizes in anything natural for a bird. Everything--I mean 100% of the time--she speaks English or makes household noises. When I see videos of Dayo--he seems to be similar--no birdie sounds. Is this common? Can it be related to both Dayo and Gracie being in one grey homes? I was just curious. I would hate to think Gracie forgot her natural bird language. But then again, she doesn't have anyone to talk to but me, and I don't speak parrotese.

It is interesting that many observe that when a grey talks it is often in the voice of the "less favored" person. I also had to laugh at the observation of her yawning and stretching in imitation of your husband. I recently noticed my CAG Gracie lifting her wings and making a sort of "morning groan." I realized that I lift my elbows up and make that same sound. She not only imitates the sound. but the action too. It is priceless.

Thanks for the summary. Inara is quite a character and you certainly entered her life prepared and able to give her the home she deserves. I like the HRH reference. Greys do have a majestic quality about them. Even when they are silly monkeys. When I read about Inara, I can't help but be reminded of my CAG Gracie. They are the same age and have many of the same endearing quirks. Gracie isn't a rehome, but otherwise they seem very similar. It is awesome to imagine spending the next decades with our greys and growing and changing and learning about them and ourselves.

Hi Lori. You are right when you say there are many POVs on clipping. You will find several threads here on the subject if you do an advanced search. In a nut shell, clipping may offer security from accidents in the home and some believe it helps the grey rely and depend on the owner more. However, in general you will find that the majority on this forum (80% based on an informal survey) do not clip their birds. I hope you will get numerous opinions to help with your decision. I am opposed to clipping for the following reasons, but I hope others with different views will post as well. 1. Birds fly. Flying is part of essential "birdness". It seems unnatural to deny or limit this fundamental intrinsic aspect of their nature. 2. Flying builds confidence. Barbara Heidenreich ,the well respected parrot expert, wrote that this is especially true with African Greys. If Greys fly they know that when they feel threatened or uncomfortable, they can choose to fly away from the source of stress. It gives them a sense of self efficacy and control over their lives. This in turn limits phobic or fearful behavior and allows greys to socialize and explore their worlds more readily. 3. If a parrot escapes, flying skills will increase their chance of survival. Clipped parrots are much more likely to fall victim to predators. 4. Hazards in the home can be limited by proactive owners who are vigilant about creating and maintaining a parrot safe home. No situation is 100% safe, but we have the ability to create an environment where accidents can be prevented. 5. Although some Greys may be more compliant and "obedient" when clipped, this is only because they don't have any choice. They are dependent on the owner. 6. Flighted parrots tend to fly more. Flying builds muscle, stamina, and lung capacity. It is also a heck of a lot of fun for them! My grey loves to visit my parents house because they have huge rooms with high ceilings and she can zoom zoom zoom all over. She squeals with delight and her joy is tangible. I love to see it. I would feel a loss if she couldn't do that. Now, if you do choose to clip, just be very sure that the job is done by an experienced trimmer. A bad wing clip can have devastating results on the well being of your grey. With a good clip, you bird should maintain some flight skills and will most likely be happy and well adjusted. I suppose my question for you is why do you wish to clip your parrot? What benefits are you seeking? How will that decision improve the life of your grey? Again, I don't judge anyone who chooses to responsibly trim their birds. There are many respected members here who have made that choice and have happy, healthy, joyful, well adjusted greys. But I do encourage you to think about it and get as much information as you can before making that decision. Best Wishes Jeff

Very interesting article. Thank you for sharing this. Science is just getting started uncovering the amazing minds and social structures of parrots.

Thank you so much for posting the video. I have never been able to scratch Gracie--not once. To be honest, I haven't tried since she was 6 months old. I would love to be able to do that, but not sure how to go about it. The whole--touchy thing--is alien for both of us. Did you wait for an invitation or just proceed with caution. I am torn. There is nothing seriously lacking in my relationship with Gracie, but I wonder if she might enjoy some tactile affection. Any advice on bridging the gap?

My CAG had a recent feather picking episode. I started to mist her twice a day with aloe vera juice and took her out for daily sunshine and replaced my avian lamp. I saw improvement almost immediately and now-after six weeks--she is back to normal.

Thanks Dave. I am glad to know that changes in the years ahead don't appear to be too dramatic based on what you shared. As I mentioned, when Gracie turned two, I did see some changes that have seemed to come into balance, but worried I might encounter something else in the next few years. As things stand now, I couldn't be happier. I know there may be some moodiness during certain seasons as she matures, but it looks like it will be manageable as long as I give her space and choices.

Glad you are back, and I hope you continue to post and let us in on all the news with your Grey. I am happy to know that what appeared to be "outside" was a patio--great place for sunshine but safe! Sometimes we on the forum may get on a "soapbox" as Luvparrots mentioned, but it is never meant as a judgment or criticism--we just love parrots so much and need to speak if we see anything that may appear to be a hazard. On sad occasions there have been tragedies with forum members, and it's always better to say something when in doubt. Tequila is a gem. Can't wait to hear and see more.

Enjoy offering formula as long as your bird wants it. One thing that greys need is the security of abundance weaning as Dave mentioned. It is also a nice way to bond. Greys tend to wean later than most parrots, so don't worry.

Welcome to both Mr Allens! I have a 3 yr old CAG female. I am so glad you have joined us. I look forward to hearing more about you and your grey. African Greys are so fantastic to share life with, and it is a wonderful resource to be part of this forum to share the joys, and sometimes heartaches, with people who care and understand.

Another one who has caught the "Amazon Bug". I may need to get a vaccination or I may succumb as well! I am very happy for you and your new buddy.

So great to see it working out so well for you! Nothing like fresh air and sunshine for our fids. Hopefully the Pacific NW with have a loooong Fall and Indian Summer for your birds to enjoy!

I feel for you. My Gracie has a similarly irritating sound she makes when she is uncomfortable or wants my attention. Thankfully she doesn't use it that often. I don't have any advice but can offer sympathy. Ear plugs might be an option. I saw a woman on Parrot Confidential PBS Nature--with a Cockatoo who lived with earplugs permanently attached. Hopefully this is just a phase.

Sounds like Felony is healthy! I love when I see my CAG Gracie chow down. She is very small boned (only 380 grams). She has held steady at that weight since she was a year old (now 3). Sounds like the diet you are feeding Felony is balanced, so all looks good.

I have a few questions about what is in store for Gracie and I in the next few years ahead. Gracie definitely went through a terrible twos phase where she was nippy, stubborn, cage territorial, and willful. Now she is three, and although she went through a brief feather picking stage about 6 weeks ago (now fully recovered thanks to aloe baths and sunshine) has emerged as a nearly perfect little fid. I know that she is still growing and maturing, but changes are still in the works--especially hormones which will affect her more and more in the next couple of years. Much is said in the forum about the terrible twos, but less about the what happens as sexual maturity approaches. I just would like some input from grey parronts who have weathered this stage of life. Do females and males have significant differences? I have a female, so very interested in that. Are there big noticeable changes from 3-5? Tips on coping? Advice in general? I am so happy with how things are now, but I want to be prepared and proactive for the next stage.

Wow! He can really bust some moves.

These are issues that need much prayer-- for our countrymen and the thousands that are being butchered, beheaded, and crucified all through Iraq and Syria--women and children among them. The evil acts rival Nazism and the Rwanda genocide.