What can I do with my African Grey?

spong120

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Feb 22, 2018
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Firstly, I want to apologize if this question has been answered as I am new to the forums. So here's the situation.

My family African Grey is around 4 years old, when my family bought her she was very friendly and would play with anyone. As time went on she became more lenient to one member of the family, this is common from what I've heard. But the thing is that she will literally bite anyone that tries to pet her or even feed her, except for my father whom she loves dearly. My father travels a lot so he doesn't have any time to spend with the bird. We bought her toys but its obvious that she likes playing with human more. The other only person she tolerates is my mother. Only to fill her bowl. My parents are getting old, sooner or later the parrot has to come live with me. Is their any way to get her to like me or let me near her cage without getting defensive?
 

bigfellasdad

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Sep 21, 2017
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Hi there and welcome.

My CAG is bonded to me and the rest of the family are getting similar to what you guys are seeing, id imagine it would be a lot easier if all lived together. For now, id try spending as much time as possible interacting with your fathers grey. Dont get so close that the grey reacts, try keep a little distance so both of you are happy. Sit and read to him, let him know you are not a threat.

Do a search on socialising parrots on here you will no doubt grab many threads up. Good luck, it will be worth the effort.
 

LordTriggs

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May 11, 2017
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Rio (Yellow sided conure) sadly no longer with us
I would as often as you can sit by the cage (not looking at her) and just read a book or something aloud. When she finally gets interested and comes over try offering her a treat, if she lunges then pull the treat away from her but keep it in her sight, then once she calms down a little re-offer the treat, all whilst talking to her. Eventually she should learn that going to bite doesn't get her a treat.

As a side note be aware she may be dealing with her first set of hormones right now being roughly 4 and it being that special time of year so she may well right now just be extra high strung. Patience should be the key to her, best of luck!
 

wrench13

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Figure out what your greys absolute favorite treat is, and while you are reading to her, you and only you is the one to offer it to her. You want to build her association to you with good things. Above advice is also good re puberty and socializing. Good luck.
 

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