COMPATIBILITY

[merlin]

Dear Pete,

Please read my answer to your other post. YES! This will probably cause a MAJOR problem where both birds will be competing for you and your shoulders. Please read my "LIving with Merlin" articles in the article section of this site.

I misunderstood from the other post and misread that you worked at the bird store. Now I see that you are home for most of the day. I realize that Coco feels very close to you but suggest that you find some kind of alternative for Coco. It may be in another home where you can visit or something.

If you are concerned about company for Dukey, get something like a pair of parakeets or something. Get another bird that she will not feel competitive with. Basically, Dukey already sees you as the other member of your small flock, and since this has been for 6 years, she would probably be upset about any new bird that you bring into the house. It would be seen as an "outsider."

Again, if you have specific questions, contact me at merlin@AfricanGreys.com

Blessings,
Maggie-

[Lisa A. Bono]

I also have an Amazon. I've actually had him longer then I have my greys. He was one when he came to live with me, 21 years ago.
Greys and Amazons are very different. I dont suggest shouldering a bird, especially an Amazon. You can not read body language there and they have a nasty bite. They go from 0-60 in a second and can do damage.
I would also suggest "Quarantine". Regardless of where a bird comes from, its very important to "Q" to keep your flock healthy. A well birdy visit is also suggested.
With that said, there will be an adjustment period. There is no guarentee they will get along. Yes, there will be jealousy issues.
Dukey needs to know she is your baby girl. She gets first treatment, and a sort of ritual (food changing, first out, first to bed) should be established after "Q" .
I was concerned with my Emma accepting a new female grey into our home last Feb. However Emma was secure with her spot in the family and was used to being around several other birds.
Dukey will have a little more trouble sharing.