Tesla's New Behavior

[CRYROLFE]

Here is a video showing Tesla's new behavior. He's been doing this about 2-3 months now.
I don't think he's afraid really because when he doesn't want me around, he just stays in his cage. This is normally in the morning just after I open his porch or after he eats.
He also does this to my husband, who he likes A LOT more than me.

[ame="http://youtu.be/gPvc7lsepnc"]TESLA'S VIDEO[/ame]

For those who don't know....he is a rehomed bird, and is cage bound. No one can touch him and he's been this way since he was about 1. We have had him for 2 years now.

I have recently had a setback where I had a bird "specialist" come and clip his wings and beak and have me hold him after on my hand while holding his head. Now he REALLY, REALLY hates me it took about 2 months just to get him to take food from me again.
He is also distrustful of me for making him stand on a new bird tree.
He has a very long memory and is very sensitive.

We are working on targeting again and it's a slow go.

Anywho.....has anyone seen this behaivor on their Greys before?

 

[BillsBirds]

I have seen this wing holding behavior with birds that are nervous. It is thought that it serves to keep his wings ready for quick escape flight. Also, a bird's temperature goes up when nervous or scared. Holding the wings away from his body allows cooler air near his body cavity to help cool him off. There could be other reasons for this behavior, especially if it is new, and there have been no new scares for him. Tell his vet about this at his next exam. Keep up your good work with him.

 

[CRYROLFE]

His new scares have been about 2 months ago, so nothing really new since then. He will also do this when I'm pretty far away....like just sitting on the couch.
I try to wait there until he stops and relaxes so that I can click and leave to reward him, but he will keep doing that a loooooooooooong time.

 

[incognito]

did any of you shout at him ..?

 

[CRYROLFE]

No....we are never mean to him.

 

[incognito]

don't you worry

he will take time and don't expect too much in a little time (its an advice given to me and i am following it)

he needs time a long time to settle down and for letting you in his circle of trust. Believe me once its done --> there is lot more to explore

they even happens to observe expressions of people among them, key to success is to always remain calm, in good mood and hope for best. there are chances of no response at all but keep trying one day he will be your best buddy for sure

 

[4theBirds]

I think BillsBirds has hit the nail on the head. It's most likely "fight or flight" behavior. Patience, a soft voice and maybe a favorite treat may help rebuild the his trust.

It's said that if you put your head down slightly, look at him with one eye very slightly closed and then tilt your head slightly. This is supposed to be a friendly gesture, African Grey style.