When to start exercising??

[ConureCrazyUK]

Hi everyone,

For those that have not read our introduction in the new members forum we are new owners of two Pineapple GCC. Today is their second day with us and we were wondering when to start letting them out for exercise?

They are not hand tamed and still a little unsure of us so we are a little nervous about how we are going to get them back in the cage?

Any advise on this would be greatly appreciated. We did start working on offering them food by hand today, they moved to the back of the cage but were clearly curious.

 

[weco]

In the wild, when parent green cheek conures have fed, weaned and fledged their chicks, they usually fly down to their favorite holiday spot, until it's time to do it all over again, leaving their new progeny with the best preparedness to face the new world, so, whenever you feel ready is always the best time I've found...though you may find it a bit difficult getting them back in their cage, until they feel more comfortable with you & their new surroundings, after which time you'll start thinking the green cheeks have taken over.....in all reality, their training has already started.....

And if you find it difficult getting them back into their cage, just wait until dark, turn the lights out (dark is necessary), know exactly where they are & just pick them up, though you'll want to softly talk to them, telling them exactly what your intentions are...expect nips & full bites, but you'll not have to chase them 'round the house with a net, like some people do.....since you did get two, they will glean support from each other,if only through their screaming, much like a pair of bratty children egging each other on, but you can lessen that and eventually gain some semblance of control, by taking them individually, out of sight of each other & if possible, out of earshot of each other...but patience, consistency and quiet voices will go a long way to winning them to your side...and...let them come to you, but if you do end up having trouble getting them back in their cage, turning out the lights will normally keep them in place, until you pick them up.....

Good luck in your new learning scenario.....

 

[MrsKay]

In my opinion, It may scare them to grab them and it could set back the level of trust you are just starting to build. I think I would give them some more time to become accustomed to their new surroundings and you. Say a couple more days, then begin by approaching them slowly but don't rush things. Reward them each time you get your hand a little nearer. Working with them individually would be best and faster. First try to teach them to step-up on a short perch. Soon, when you can get them to step-up on your hand, it will be easier to get them back in their cage.
Here is a thought. Have you considered a minimal wing clipping? This would just slow them down enough for you to get them hand tamed and get some training in until their flight feathers can grow in again

 

[ConureCrazyUK]

Our biggest problem is they will not take treats from hand, I can get my hand about 12" infront of them any closer and they climb or fly off. So it is impossible at the moment to reward anything they do??

 

[MrsKay]

OK. 12" is good. Leave a reward at 12" away. Tomorrow maybe you can get 11" away. etc.
Takes time and patience