Hi
I recently adopted a 17 year old Illiger's Macaw. They are not sure about his age but estimated to be about 17 years. For the most part he is a great bird, wants to socialize with us when we are around will take treats from our hands. He is missing some toes, I was told he was in with a female that bit them off not sure how true. But he is very scared of hands I can't get him to step up on my arm or hand, he will take treats though from our hands. He also won't let anyone pet him. I have toweled him and taken him away from his cage and want he will sit on my stomach if i am on the couch, or even let me groom the back of his neck a little bit. His initial reaction though all the time is to bite. He does have a painful bite and my fingers are sore. From research I am not suppose to react to a bite, which I try not to but sometimes it is not that easy. I have had him for about a month and he will try and say hello every now and then when I try to teach him. Is there any other tips or tricks that has worked for anyone especially with an older bird?
Thank You
Kunal Patel
I recently adopted a 17 year old Illiger's Macaw. They are not sure about his age but estimated to be about 17 years. For the most part he is a great bird, wants to socialize with us when we are around will take treats from our hands. He is missing some toes, I was told he was in with a female that bit them off not sure how true. But he is very scared of hands I can't get him to step up on my arm or hand, he will take treats though from our hands. He also won't let anyone pet him. I have toweled him and taken him away from his cage and want he will sit on my stomach if i am on the couch, or even let me groom the back of his neck a little bit. His initial reaction though all the time is to bite. He does have a painful bite and my fingers are sore. From research I am not suppose to react to a bite, which I try not to but sometimes it is not that easy. I have had him for about a month and he will try and say hello every now and then when I try to teach him. Is there any other tips or tricks that has worked for anyone especially with an older bird?
Thank You
Kunal Patel