Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 12/7/2007

Question
Hi i just purchased a parakeet from pertsmart and i didnt one that was on the shelf because little kids bang on the glass and people arent respectful of them..i wanted one that they had in the back. will the fact that he was there for so long around frightening people effect my ability to train him? when should i start handling and working with him? and how should i start building our relationship? today i have been talking to him alot and i read part of a parakeet care book to him so he learns my voice and that i am not of harm to him. the person clipped his wings beforei took him home but he can still fly should  take him to an avian vet to get it done correctly?

Answer
Hi, Melissa,

You talk about "training" when, in fact, I think you mean "taming."  These are 2 different activities.  If your bird is not tame, you will need to tame him first, before you can start training him to do other things.  You did good by selecting a bird that was not in an area where pet store customers could intimidate the bird.  Yes, being at a pet store can make taming/training more difficult.  A just-weaned, handfed, baby from a reputable parrot breeder would have been your best choice.  Since you just purchased this bird, you need to allow the bird time to settle down and adjust to its new surroundings and to you.  This doesn't mean ignore the new bird, it means only proceed as far as the bird will allow you to.  You don't want to frighten or scare your new bird...you want to build a trusting relationship.  Therefore, see how much the bird will allow and proceed accordingly.  You can start handling s/he now if the bird will allow.  To build a good relationship with your bird, don't do anything to scare the bird.  Don't try to grab the bird and bring it out of its cage...allow the bird to come out of the cage on its own.  Invest or build a play stand, where your bird can come out of its cage and play.  Provide a healthy, nutritional diet consisting of a variety of healthy foods.  If the bird will allow, when you are on your computer or watching TV or playing Xbox, listening to music, etc., let the bird sit on your shoulder or lap.  Offer your new bird treats through the cage bars if the bird is skiddish.  Visit my website for more help:  www.angelfire.com/falcon/birdinfo/index.html.  www.birdchannel.com is also a good website for lots of information.

If flight feathers are trimmed correctly, the bird can still fly, however, it will not be able to gain altitude when it does fly.  Your bird may already have a proper clip.

Come back if you need additional help or have further questions.

Chrys