Timbersmom

OK Pak-O-Bird owners... I am about to bite the bullet and buy one. My question is this.... Timber is a small TAG (barely in the range size-wise). Do I need a medium or would the small work? Thanks!

I really enjoyed reading these! Timber has so many nicknames that I don't know where to start! He is Timber Dale when he is into something (Dale is my husband's middle name, and we always tack it on when any member of the flock including kids and cats are misbehaving). He is "Timbert," "Timbster," "that bird," "the Timbird," "the good bird," "the pretty bird," "big bird," "baby bird," "such a mean bird," depending on circumstances. My youngest son, Timber's favorite, just says "BBBIIIIIIRD" low and growly when he comes in and sees him (Timber has this one down pat).

What murfchck said... As to when to start teaching step-up I've never had a young bird so I don't really know the answer to that. However, I'd think 8 months would be old enough. Most recommend that training take place away from the cage. They need to feel safe and secure in the cage and you shouldn't invade it unless there is an emergency. Hopefully others with more experience will come along and add to this!

Excellent responses and advice here from the others. All I can add is that Timber (my TAG) rarely screeches or screams. He does make some loud noises (ones that he has picked up from things in his environment) but not constantly. That said, you have read that some of our members DO have greys that screech and are noisy. When you get a grey, you really don't know how they will be. Some are louder than others, and some of that is due to personality I'd guess not just training. Since there is no guarantee that a quiet baby will evolve into a quiet adult, please just remember this when you bring a baby home. I am not trying to discourage you in any way. I just know from reading these forums that we often have expectations for our birds that aren't met. We love them anyway of course, but I think you need to go into this understanding that is is a lifetime commitment, and things may not always go like you hope and plan. It is much the same as having a baby, you never know what they will be like personality-wise, and they continue to evolve and mature over time. Good luck

Ooops, can't see the pic! Hello and welcome to you and Gracie!

I can't view it. Drat.

Hello and welcome! Looking forward to pics and more about your new companion

Very nice videos! Thanks for sharing

Timber will still try anything that is warm and comes on a spoon, and he is 5 years!

Great pics, thanks for sharing!

I agree with Ray. I think that after a few days of "normality" Gracie will be the same as ever with you. I wouldn't be surprised if she is behaving that way just to make you jealous. They are that smart!

Happy hatchday Alfie

Yes, they do know when you are upset, mad, moody or whatever!

Amazing how those little things we don't think anything about make such a difference. Timber has now adjusted to me wearing my headband (aerobics) but he is still cautious about it after 10 months.

Welcome to you and Elf! Good luck and God bless

LOL! Jake is probably thinking, "what, do you not speak English or are you just really slow?? Did I stutter?" LOL

Ah, the joys of bird parronthood! Talk about a patience builder!

LOL Yeah, they are great little manipulators! I have a permanent "sucker" sign on my forehead now I think

Very good post Dan. Most of us post primarily when our bird does something interesting or cute, not when they are having a "satan's spawn" moment. I'm sure there are forum members who have never been bitten and have docile birds. I'd say there are more that experience the moody bites and unexplained (to us) actions. Timber just nailed me yesterday (blood drawer) over a very minor offense (in my mind). Yes, it upsets me when it happens and he goes in time out with a stern "no bite." Has that helped? Not much that I can see. He is very strong willed as well, and I wouldn't have him any other way! Later in the day, he was on my arm wanting scratches.

Neat idea with the stroller!

When she's not using it of course!

I see what you mean about her fixation with the jar. Really makes you wonder what is going through their minds!

Do you think they put their heads together and plan? Like "it's my turn to get her today?"

LOL Great pics. Make sure you note the features she has "bookmarked."

Hello and welcome Gemma! There is a lot of information on the forum for new parronts. If I were you I've be reading! If you have any questions just ask. Someone will be able to help you.