Scared of toys??

[rachel schindorff]

Hello,

 

We inherited my father in laws 24 year old african grey buddy. We have had him for almost one week now. We had to put him in a new cage right away, so hes still a bit nervous with that. But anyways, all the reading says birds love toys. He has never had toys in his cage, my hubby said when they first got buddy he was afraid of toys. Whenever one was put in, he would stay on the opposite side of the cage. I feel so bad for him, id love to get him to like toys. Does anyone think thats possible?? With him being older, and never having toys would this be a bad idea for me to try to introduce toys into his cage?? I would appreciate any advice you have. Thanks Everyone!!!!

Edited May 13, 2012 by rachel schindorff

[judygram]

He is not too old to play with toys but greys are slow to accept anything new or to change so give him time, most of us introduce a new toy by putting it somewhere where it can be seen but not close enough to scare then gradually move it closer over a period of days until he is comfortable around it. He may also have to be shown how to play if he was not provided with any toys before, just take the toy and play with it yourself and act like you are having a wonderful time with it, that seems to pique their interest.

[cheepo]

wot i do is put the new toy to the bars so my gray can bite it b4 i put it in his cage. if i juts put in the cage he wont go neer it for about 2 days

[kave70]

With Sam we have to introduce toys gradually. First I leave it within sight distance, off the cage. Then we hang it on the outside of the cage. Next it goes inside and he will still avoid it at all costs. Eventually, I hear a new noise and looks to see Sam playing with his new toy. This can take WEEKs for Sam, but the payoff is worth it. When I hear a new bell, or something being shredded, I'm a happy Mommy, knowing he's enjoying it.

[erricsimmons457]

It is quite difficult to teach the birds to play with toys rather than that of dogs.How about the idea of showing your bird the art of playing with toys by doing the same yourself.It would be great if they began imitating you.You said it gets scared by the sight of toys and would shift to opposite side of it.I think you can be patient and believe that they may get friendly with it after sometime.