Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 4/28/2007

Question
We have 2 male birds who usually get along quite well together.One is 2 1/2 yrs (G) and the other is 1 1/2 yrs (Baby). We had G with a female for about 1 year and unfortunately she escaped and flew away. They got along splendidly in the full sense of the word. We purchased baby in hopes that he was a female , however things did not work out that way. As stated they get along great ( except for the few times that Baby has tried to become too friendly with G who he assumes is female). Things changed a day ago as Baby seems to be in full spring frenzy. Poor G is running for his life and Baby is beside himself. I have separated them in different cages for the time being, however when separated they scream bloody murder for each other. Is there any solution you could suggest (other than renting a female) to ease the stress during this spring fever period. Thanks, Mara Z


Answer
Hi, Mara.

Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do.  I think it's good you've separated them right now because Baby can run G down too much and G become too stressed, which can lead to illness.  If you haven't already, it can help to keep their cages right next to each other so they can "beak" each other through the cage wire (or at least be as close as they can be without actually being together).  It might help if you could let them out of their cages together for a while (but not inside cages together).  Sometimes a little bit of time together is all they need.  Limit their available light to 8-10 hours each day...this might help shorten the hormonal period (keep their days short).  

The raging hormones are natural, so not much you can do about them.  You just have to help them get through it as best as everyone can.

Chrys