Not a music lover, obviously

[Jayyj]

I'm having a frustrating problem with Alice in that my main interest outside of feathered companions is music, and Alice seems to be utterly terrified of my violin. It seems to be the bow that is the problem: I can pluck the violin itself and she doesn't seem bothered, but as soon as I pick the bow up she's horrified. I tried going up to her to show her the bow today and she puffed up her feathers and retreated to the top of the cage. I'm used to people casting aspersions as to my musical ability, but it's a harsh critic indeed that retreats to the highest point of the room shivering uncontrollably!

Any ideas as to the best way to get her over this? I work in the violin trade so I do get to play at work, but I miss putting in a little practice in the evenings as well, and it'd be great if I can get her to put up with me a little. If I go into the next room to practice it means shutting the cage up, and I'd rather not play than decrease the time she gets out in the evening. My instinct is to keep playing for a few minutes each day and hope she gets used to it - but I don't want to stress her if that's not the best way to approach it.

 

[weco]

It's not just violin bows, but broom handles, dusting handles, most anything of similar shape.....some birds are worse than others, but the equation is often with snakes and I'm not so sure your resident critic has an aversion to your music.....

While you might think it an imposition, try keeping your bow out of sight & even do your practicing away from Alice.....

Good luck.....

 

[SandyBee]

Birdies can be funny about things like that.
Try playing farther away from her but still in the same room. Only for short sessions to start.
Don't go near her with the bow at all though. Hopefully with a little time she will see its not a monster. You could also give her a treat just as you start so she associates this time as a good thing and has a distraction from what she is fearful of.

 

[Kalidasa]

Lol! Everybody's a critic! Maybe try tying something she likes on it, like a bell or a treat? That would be cool if she were part of your playing....that would be very cool.