Congo African Greys and bonding mates?

Iwantacracker

New member
Nov 19, 2009
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So, George still won't do 'up or down' but he doesn't mind
me picking him up. I don't need a towel or anything to do
so. he just lets me pick him up and move him to wherever.
the only time he's bitten me in the process was when one
of the dogs came around the corner at the same time and it
scared him. even then, he barely broke skin. we've really
bonded and i feel like he trusts me a lot.
A local man has an African grey that he is potentially
going to re-home. I LOVE george and i'm absolutely
content with him. however, i was curious if greys usually
like having a bonding partner? i've read that birds in
general are picky about their mates and i can certainly
respect that. but in general, do they want a mate? are
they wanting to find the right mate? does it need to be
another grey or would a macaw or another bird make a good
mate?
i'm asking strictly for his own happiness and bird
companionship (which obviously being a human i cannot
match companionship another bird might be able to offer).
i'm not asking for breeding purposes bc i have no ambition
to breed at the moment.
if they do desire a mate, what signs should i look for
if/when 'testing' a potential bonding partner? how should
i go about it? i just want him to be as happy as he can possibly be.
Thank you for listening.
 

Auggie's Dad

Administrator
Dec 28, 2007
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South Hadley MA
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Auggie: Dusky Conure
Most parrots do see their human owners as mates. If you get another bird he may not like the bird or it may not like him. If they do get along they will most likely not be interested in interacting with you as much.

There are plenty of good reasons to get a second bird, but I really don't think your first birds happiness can be one of them.
 

antoinette

Supporting Member
Jul 6, 2009
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Sunny South Africa !!!
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African "Grey"
"Mishka"
Male
7 Years old
Hi Iwantacracker
So many decisions to make, not easy ones as well.
How long have you had George for?
Reason I am asking is his personality might change, having another bird around.
Not getting all the attention, he might become jealous and withdrawn.
Not saying don't get another bird, they might get on in time.
Will you have enough quality time to spend with each bird?
Good luck
Take care
 

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