Ernie the Cockatoo

[Doodlebug177]

So a month ago we got an 18 year old cockatoo he had lived with a gentlemen until he passed away about a year ago then with my friend (she regrettably gave him up as her kids didn’t like him much)
He loves my boys and the minute they walk in he will climb up and chat and follows them around but as the main one to be looking after him I would like for him to come to me so that he is not left in a room by himself etc but in the month we have had him he has only climbed onto me about 3 times
He will occasionally sit and let me pet him if one of the boys hands him over lol
He is happy to take food of my hand although finding him a treat is hard as he doesn’t like anything I am currently trying to give him fresh fruits and veg which he doesn’t like (have found the link for the chop so am gonna try that tomorrow)
Is there anything else I can do to get him to step up for me so that I can integrate him into family life??

Thank you Sam x

 

[Owlet]

if he likes the kids I would say that's a very big win. Have you ever really been around him when your boys weren't there?

 

[Doodlebug177]

Yeah I am the one with him most of the day lol

 

[dhraiden]

Time and your consistent presence coinciding with feeding, treats, and other positive phenomenon will help your new 'Too open up to you.

 

[Doodlebug177]

Thank you x he is a lovely bird I will continue what I am doing with him x

 

[Siobhan]

A month isn't very long. He's still trying to figure out how he fits in with all of you. Be patient, keep trying, and I'll bet he comes around soon.

 

[noodles123]

It took me 3 before mine really liked me (ate from my hand early on) but didn't want to step up...stepped up for my boyfriend before me! Now she likes me more than him but it took about 3 for her to realize I was worth a darn lol--I adopted her at age 10.

 

[lplummer52]

You are so lucky to have this bird. Be sure to have a good time with him. He will give you lots of laughs and entertainment. Just keep offering the healthy foods. He will take to them sooner or later.

 

[Scott]

Welcome to you and Ernie! You seem to be off to a very good start thus far. One month for an Umbrella is still the "honeymoon" phase.

Here are a few recommended threads that may ease Ernie's adjustment:
http://www.parrotforums.com/general-parrot-information/49144-tips-bonding-building-trust.html

http://www.parrotforums.com/parrot-...7-converting-parrots-healthier-diet-tips.html

Cockatoos are very much flock birds and consider you a member. One technique to encourage eating "chop" is to prepare a bowl for Ernie and one for you. Begin eating in front of him, gesturing delight with each bite. Make "mmmm" sounds and watch his reactions. Sounds silly but worth the effort!

 

[rangerktc1]

Sam-pardon for my asking but are you male or female? When I adopted my Bianca, the previous owner insisted the adopter be a male. Bianca much preferred men. Bianca almost immediately bonded with me, but after 16 months is still a bit standoffish with my wife and daughter.

 

[GaleriaGila]

Great advice above, y'all.

Scott, you beat me to the punch with those two links... such good ones, for sure.

Ernie, sounds like you hit the jackpot!

 

[Doodlebug177]

I am female and Ernie definitely prefers the males lol
I am happy for him to prefer the boys over me but in the long run I know he would be doing much more if he will come along with me lol but I am prepared to wait for him x

 

[Doodlebug177]

Thank you all for the fabulous advice i am a new bird owner so after reading up on the posts now realise that it’s not really been that long and to keep going am off to read the links thank you all again Sam x