1. The bald patch is probably from rubbing his head on the top of too small a cage...
2. They were keeping a zon in a finch cage!
3. He looks like he could use a good bath.
4. That cage is fine.
5. Gender preferences relate back to who interacted with him in the past, and possibly who was not kind to him. Could be afraid of woman. Could be the woman of the house was less than kind. Going quiet like that is a "presence of predators" response in a zon...
6. All living things respond to love and proper care. If you give it to him, he will begin to respond to you.
Thanks!
Yes, I can understand that. I figured that maybe a man was the primary care-giver. He still does not want to be touched or to step up onto either men or women. But I'm gaining his trust! Today was the first time he came out of the cage on his own!!

And he took a few raisins from my hand. It's a good start!
That tells me he hasn't been handled IN FOREVER and is probably somewhat sensory deprived as well.
Getting this bird outside would probably do wonders for his disposition as well when/if it is nice enough where you are...
The usual cage bound protocols apply...
And try and get him to eat some fresh vitamin A foods. Particularly sweet potato.