Question about young Green Cheeks

[trekkie1490]

Hello, I'm new to the board and I've got a question. I have 2 green cheeks. One is a normal and the other is a yellow sided. They were both hatched around March/April. They are both very finicky about being petted and being held. If I am downstairs with them they will try their best to get to the top of their cage instead of being on my hand or shoulder. They don't like to be separated which I know is normal since they are caged together. I had 2 green cheeks years ago and did not have this problem. Is it just a phase they go through? I try to have them out and hold them whenever I'm home but like I said, they do t really seem to like me. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Kyoto]

Just take things slow. Offer them treats and don't force them to sit with you. Just try to be a little more relaxed and they will come around.

 

[proudbirdmum]

Hey, don't worry- things will get better with time and patience. We were advised by our vet to start things slow. So every time you walk by the cage give them a treat each through the bars of the cage. Right now its a new environment and they are just a bit nervous still. Keep doing the treat thing till you notice that they come to the side of the cage that you're on on their own when you walk by. Then start offering the treat with the door open but your hand at the entrance only (not inside). When they start taking that well, encourage them to step onto your hand to get the treat but literally one step outside the cage not more (or they will freak out). Honestly, it sounds tedious but this is the calmest, least stressful method we've been taught and it works!

Once they realize you're a source of yummy treats and calm energy they'll come out on their own and bridge the gap. Clicker training is a good step to take once you've gained their trust.

Hope that helps!