Olly's adventure..

[MissJD]

Today, Olly was out of his cage while I packed (we are moving house in two days). He was just casually chilling on his perch while I was standing with my back to him, talking to Matty (bf).

All of a sudden, I hear flapping wings then a second later I feel Olly land on my head.

Oh. My. God!!!

This is the first direct physical contact he has allowed and HE INSTIGATED IT!!!

I won't lie, I was a bit nervous about this.. Anyone who has ever experienced the size and strength of a cockatoo's beak will understand my consternation at having him so close to my eyes and ears..

However, I didn't move - Partly because I was in shock and partly because I didn't want to startle him..

I got a surge of love (and adrenalin) out of it and Olly preened my hair for a minute then flew back to his perch happily, without incident.

This beautiful creature has so much personality, I LOVE it. I absolutely cannot wait until our relationship has strengthened to the point where he will allow me to give him scratches and learn to step up.

So proud of my baby for his little adventure today!! <3

 

[Betrisher]

Yay Olly! What a vote of confidence!

Miss JD, I was watching a training video by Barbara Heidenreich on YouTube last night. She has an interesting way of teaching 'step up' by placing her hand at the end of the perch and then luring the bird along until he's actually standing on her hand. This gives him confidence that your hand is sturdy enough to hold his weight and seems like a great starting point. Just thought I'd mention it, since Olly's so ready to begin!

I'm sorry, I can't remember the title of the vid, but if you search using the name and 'step up' it ought to work.

 

[MissJD]

Thanks Betrisher! I've just come from my bedroom where he did it again! This time I (kind of) got a picture..

It appears that Olly has now reached a turning point, as he has spent the last 30 minutes with me on my bed, roaming and exploring around me. This has never happened before, in fact he would hiss and lunge when we tried to approach or touch him.

I am so excited as I thought this would take longer!

Thank-you for your suggestion of the training video, I will be sure to check it out!

 

[aether-drifter]

That's such a wonderful feeling! I know it well. I felt that way the first time my skittish, untame female cockatiel flew to me.

By the way, what a gorgeous too. I'm so jealous!

 

[MissJD]

Olly says thank-you very much!

He is also very excited, as his new cage has arrived today, 3 times the size of his current one. He cannot wait to show it off to you all

 

[MikeyTN]

I would be scared with a big too landing on my head...lol

Olly is soooooooo beautiful!!!!

 

[Betrisher]

What a gorgeous cocky Olly is! I like the look on your face, though. This is what shock looks like. LOLOLOL! Congratulations on a good start. Now, see if you can get him to step up by using treats (millet spray etc). Be patient and only train for five or ten minute bursts at first.