Cockatoo behaviour advice

[Luke & Charlie]

Hello all,

A week ago I rescued Charlie. He is 37 and has spent the past 8 years being largely ignored particularly the last 2! He lived in an aviary where he was unable to fly and fed a seed diet. I think he is over weight and lacks muscle essential for flying.. or indeed even flapping.

I would appreciate any advice as to how I help him build muscle and lose weight. He is ok on his T-perch but learning to step up and then everything else.

One thing Charlie does which I just can't figure out... either in his cage or when he is out and in a corner, he will drop his head, look back over his shoulder and lift his tail in my direction. If he was a female bird I would guess it was an invitation to mate!

I would really appreciate advice and help! Thank you!

Luke & Charlie

 

[Sadieladie1994]

Hello all,

A week ago I rescued Charlie. He is 37 and has spent the past 8 years being largely ignored particularly the last 2! He lived in an aviary where he was unable to fly and fed a seed diet. I think he is over weight and lacks muscle essential for flying.. or indeed even flapping.

I would appreciate any advice as to how I help him build muscle and lose weight. He is ok on his T-perch but learning to step up and then everything else.

One thing Charlie does which I just can't figure out... either in his cage or when he is out and in a corner, he will drop his head, look back over his shoulder and lift his tail in my direction. If he was a female bird I would guess it was an invitation to mate!

I would really appreciate advice and help! Thank you!

Luke & Charlie

The behavior you mention....you have just been invited over fella. Is Charlie a girl or boy?

Just give Charlie time. Good diet is the start. Good housing where he is safe is another healthy choice. Encourage Charlie to raise wings ie big bird or be an eagle. That in itself starts the exercise. Mine will start to do some wing flapping on their own and I encourage that activity as it also helps strengthen muscles.

Good luck with Charlie. The sulfer crested group are some of my favorite parrots.

Peggy

 

[Auggie's Dad]

Yup sounds like an 'invitation' ... are you sure he's a he? Are you sure he's sure!