AboutRev. Dr. S.August Abbott Expertise Certified Avian Specialist; Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council member; Own animal rescue org; National Wildlife habitat #66378; bird care, nutrition & behavior consultant; International Assoc. of Animal Behavior Consultants Associate; National Wildlife Federation Leaders Club member; published bird care, info and behavior articles and guides.
Ongoing education in exotic bird behavior and nutrition
I can answer behavioral, nutritional, environmental, characteristic/personality questions as well as general health and health care.
No animal emergency can ever be addressed on the internet. We cannot see your animal, perform an examination, provide necessary care or medication.
Please value your companion for the priceless, living creature they are; not for what you might have paid for them.
Experience Certified Avian Specialist.
For more than 30 years I've worked with veterinarians, protective facilities, nature centers, preserves and on my own in providing care and education with regard to multiple animal species, including raptors (hawks, kestrals, owls, etc) and marsupials. In recent years I've focused on parrots, usually rescued from abusive or less than ideal situations and helping educate owners as to proper care. Expert in behavior studies and modification of problem behavior.
Organizations 4AnimalCare is the organization I run as an animal ministry; World Wildlife Association, Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, National Wildlife Federation Leaders Club and more
Publications Bird Talk Magazine articles about rescued and problem macaws.
Education/Credentials Doctorate, Ordained Minister
Question I have a 2yr. old African Grey and he is awesome and we all love him.I just have one question.He is a great talker and singer but for some reason when I am in the room he won't talk.He can copy me very well and I have 4 girls and he will talk away while everyone is in the room but if I walk in he's silent.Is this a sign that he doesn't trust me?
Answer Would it help to learn that you're not the only one with a bird like this? Sort of like that cartoon frog that will sing and dance only for one person and the minute anyone else looks, it's just a frog.
Your Grey is still pretty young and working on their own confidence, plus, it's probably deferring to you as the flock leader. It would be impolite of him to talk over you.
Keep encouraging him, reward him with praise and enthusiasm when he speaks up and most of all, keep doing what you're doing in being patient and understanding.
