Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 8/9/2006

Question
Hi,i'm writing from italy and my name is andy. i'm handfeeding a blue crowned conure, he/she is around 6 weeks. everything is ok but i've noticed a strange thing: it's about 3 or 4 days that, when i try to approach to him when he's in his box, he tries to defend himself trying to beak and opening (or spreading...sorry for my english but i don't know the correct word...) the wings...is it normal that a baby act in this "aggressive way" like he's defending his nest? i thought that since i'm hanfeeding him, he should recognize me as a parent, not as an intruder... BTW when he's out of his box he is sweet and happy and wants to be on my hand or under my neck (if i'm laying on the bed for example..). after i the feeding stuff, he stays out of his box for hours, always in contact with me, my hands and so on.
i hope to read u soon and i'm sorry for my english!
wish u a great day!
Andy

Answer
Hi, Andy.  Thanks for posting.

Yes, it's normal for a lot of baby birds.  Perhaps they feel like they are being cornered with no where to go.  Your baby is getting older and some instinctual behaviors are starting to kick in.  I recommend when approaching the baby when s/he's in the box that you start talking calmly to s/he as you approach the box so s/he knows you are coming.  You look like a giant to the baby and perhaps s/he is a little bit intimidated by you and/or perhaps you surprise the baby when you approach s/he while in the box.  Obviously, the baby is tame otherwise, so you likely have nothing to worry about here.  

Keep up the good work with the baby!  You'll have a very nice bird.  Blue crowned conures can learn to be good talkers.  I have a bonded pair and they always make me laugh when they say "I like football!"  (the male learned this from the female, who was raised by a football fan).  BCC babies are very cute!  

Come back with any questions.

Chrys