by merlin » Thu Jan 05, 2012 6:55 am
Dear Cindy,
It makes sense that Noel's behavior has changed in two weeks because that's the basic "window" when a pet bird learns about the new home (territory)... and adapts its behavior. It is important to help her get along with others, but you need to do it slowly and build a trust bond so that she feels comfortable with the different people. Her case of biting is defensive to stop everyone from touching her and trying to handle her. It must be done slowly and at her pace.
Baby greys can tend to adapt to one person whom he/she sees as a "mommy" bird. She looks up to you to teach her her living skills on how to adapt to life and the family. I suggest that you get a copy of my pet manual which is called "African grey parrots: A Complete Pet Owner's Manual. " You can get an autographed copy of it from my site or a regular copy from Amazon. http://www.africangreys.com/greyplace/autographbook.htm
Greys can tend to be nervous around young children because the kids move around quickly and are somewhat unpredictable. She does not hate your son: her biting is defensive to communicate that she does not want to be touched. Instead of letting him try to pet her, give him a job that doesn't deal with touching her. You can get him to help you teach her to talk, although she may not be talking until 12-18 months old. Or you can get him to help you prepare the food.
Please make sure that Noel's cage is set up high so that she feels safe from being touched by lots of people. You need to help her feel secure in the home. If you want to talk with me on the phone about specifics to your situation, I do telephone consultations at $35/half hour, plus a follow-up. You can sign up here: http://www.africangreys.com/greyplace/telephone.htm
Also, Greys don't really like to be "petted." They like to be gently rubbed on the top of the head and face, when they bow their heads and ask for it. But the touching on the back and wings is very personal and not something they prefer, unless they are more intimately close with the human. Baby greys are more cuddly, but they are less so when they grow up.
You can teach Noel to get along with the whole family, but again, it takes time and each person in the household needs to build their own relationship with her. But again, you cannot pet her like a dog. She has to trust and accept the human first. Please get my book.
Congratulations! Welcome to the incredible world of greys. You are in for a treat.
Hoping this helps.
Blessings,
Maggie-