New GCC, not cooperating what should I do?

[Ldelt]

Hello everyone! About 3 days ago I adopted a 10 month old Green Cheek Conure named Rico. He seems to like his new home but I was warned that he hasn't been handled enough and probably won't come near me. I am not sure what to do. He dances around and is very playful in his cage, has been eating his food, he even likes giving kisses through the bars! But as soon as I open the door he tenses up, and if I put my hand in there (very slowly and nicely) he just hurries into the corner or hides in his tent? I bought some millet spray that he really liked and actually got him to step up! Any advice on what I should do so that he isn't so afraid of me (or my family)?

 

[WesselG]

Hi Ldelt

Welcome to the forum.

I never had a Green Cheek Conure (I only had Sun Conures and currently Indian Ringnecks) but 3 days aren't that long. Perhaps for now it's a good idea to only socialize through the bars and try again in a few weeks to remove him from his cage.

The one thing I do know about birds is to take things on their terms so being patient is definitely a virtue.

 

[MonicaMc]

I agree with Wessel. New home, new environment, new people. That can be a lot of change for a new bird!

Give him time to settle in, and use the millet as a training treat with him.

 

[Ldelt]

Thanks you for the great advice! He has been doing a little better so we'll see how it goes!
I didn't even think about how overwhelming this must be for Rico, thanks again.

 

[MonicaMc]

With many dogs it's like "New place? New smells? LETS GO!!!!". Dogs are often happy to explore new places.

Birds, being prey rather than predators, will freak out about new situations and environments if they are not accustomed to being socialized and taken places. They are more likely to take flight and think later when a scary situation arises.