JeffNOK

I remember when I thought cell phones were a narcisistic indulgence. I thought "who could possibly be so important that they had to be available at all times?"

You know, Greys have such a reputation for talking-- a well deserved one. I admit that the grey's intelligence is one reason I decided to get one. However, in the last few weeks that I have been visiting my grey at the breeders, I have to admit I couldn't care less if my little Gracie ever speaks a word of English. I'm just totally in love with her. As I have been reading the posts here from other grey parronts, I see one thing over and over--just a love and respect for their fids. Talking is a bonus (and perhaps a liability at times). There is so much more to be mined and discovered from these amazing creatures. If human speech is in the cards--GREAT! If not, I doubt you'll really care much in the long run.

Missy is a wonderful name. It sounds very elegant--although even elegant ladies can be messy (guaranteed with a grey!). Best of luck. I'm so glad you are welcoming a new fid into your household. I know she will be one lucky girl!

It sounds like he was a little traumatized by the experience. Be gentle with him and give him some time and space. I'm sure things will return to normal in time.

When I first considered getting a parrot, I was also a bit nervous about being bitten. I have basically adopted the view expressed above--"Ok its a bird bite--not a T-Rex--life will go on." My bird is still at the breeders, and I try to visit and handle her every day. She is sweet, but yesterday when I tried to put her back in her cage before leaving, she grabbed on to the bars of the cage in protest and then when I persisted she gave me a "pinch"--I wouldn't say "bite" because it was restrained and didn't break the skin or anything. It did hurt though. I didn't let her have her way and proceeded to put her little red feathered butt back in the cage without reacting. Hopefully she will learn that her beak is not going to be the most effective way to get what she wants. When she went back in her cage, I praised her and gave her a treat.

Your baby doesn't seem scared at all!

I love all the name suggestions. The ideas just run the gamut--Tupac (urban and bad-a$$) and Sunny(sweet and cheerful) give off such a different vibe! I think names reflect as much about the owners as the they reflect the bird. I chose Gracie for my fid who will be home in about 6 weeks. I'm counting the days!

Welcome! We are gald you are here. Definately post pics

Congratulations on your baby. Welcome to the forum.

My baby Gracie is a young CAG--about 12 weeks old. She looks very much like the picture of the supposed hybrid. Her tail feathers are darker at the tips too, and she isn't very big--only about 375 g. I'd say she is small boned because next to her cage are 2 CAG babies only 10 weeks old and they are already 450 g. They look like little grey feathered footballs next to her! She is going to be a svelte elegant lady--lol.

Lovely photos.

I bring my baby (Gracie) home in December too. I know how your are feeling--lots of anticipation.

Wingy, as far as your time away--just budget time into you day to sepnd an hour a day giving direct attention to your fid (playing/talking/holding etc) and 3 hours of "out of cage time". As far as big beak fears. I had the same concerns. I am getting my baby in a December and have been visiting her at the breeder almost daily. She has never bitten me or even nipped. She steps up nicely. I do think babies are less likely to bite that older birds--though there are exceptions of course. Visiting her once a week should be a great start.

Adorable baby. Does she have a name yet?

Welcome. I also joined the forum well in advance of me getting my grey, so that I'd be well prepared. I joined in January 2011 and I'll be getting my grey (Gracie) in December. I've learned a lot and feel much more confident. Have fun and enjoy this phase of the journey.

From what I understand most CAGs start late (about a year). The most important thing is that Ajax seems to love you. Everything else is just icing.

Welcome--just poke around the forums a bit and you will probably see a lot of your questions already answered. And don't hesitate to ask new questions as well. That is why everyone is here.

I have a soft spot for amazons too. I'm getting my first parrot--a grey in 2 months, but maybe someday I will have a zon in my flock as well. In the mean time I'm glad there is a place for amazons on the grey forum. I can enjoy them vicarioulsy.

What will his living situation be when you leave? Greys need to have interaction while you are away. Otherwise they may feel abandoned, and that might set him back a bit. Are you boarding him with a vet? Will you get a pet sitter? As long as he is not alone, he will do fine from what I have read. I travel a lot too, so this is a concern for me as well. Of course he will remember you! Just plan carefully and I'm sure all will be fine.

I know you think he "hates" you after this experience, but don't lose heart. I'm sure he sees you as his world and he will get over it.Greys are very empathetic and deep down he knows you love him to bits and in the long run I'm sure that will make all the difference.

Gorgeous bird, but from what I've read they are more of an aviary bird than companion bird.

You are in the right place. I've learned tons. I'm new to birds in general let alone greys. I bring my baby home in a couple of months and the knowledge I've gained here has been invaluable. I'm feeling more confident. Best wishes.

Hi Pks. Welcome to the forum. I know it's a difficult decision when you decide to rehome your bird. I know that many people will be interested in the opportunty. Take your time and get to know the people who show interest. I'm sure there will be "candidates" that will offer the perfect home. I know that life changes offen happen and maybe it's best for your bird to be rehomed. I wish you the best, but I also encourage you to take another look at the situation and see if there may be some way it can still work with your family so that you may be able to keep your grey. I know you will make the choice that is best for all.Is there an avian society or bird club in your area? I'm sure that would be a good place to start. Best wishes and good luck.

Jill, bless you for what you are doing. I don't think I'd be up for that challenge. The good news is that Molly has a safe loving home with positive experiences. I don't know what the furture holds, but I wish you all the best and believe you are a Godsend. Best wishes to you both.

Wishing you all the best in your new adventure.