First time Quacker!

[QuackerDuke]

Hello all! This is my first time actually owning a bird. I used to help my grandma with her cockatiel farm {?}. When she got older and was unable to take care of them, she let them go, and it started my quest for the perfect birdy. Finally today I found him! Duke is a rehomed Quacker Parakeet, I'm told he is just over 10 months old. His breeder did not hand train him at all, so the previous owners gave up trying to train him. I have had him for a few hours, I have made arrangements to see an Avian Vet, and get him a check up. He is quite nippy, but I have been talking to him all day {no response yet} and holding him and finding his scratchy spots. He is a very nervous little guy, but he got comfortable enough to snuggle against my bosom earlier and sat on my hand while I rubbed his head. He has new food {the stuff that came with him had weevils and maggots in it}, I tried a little water spray on him {he didn't give me an affirmative or not with it}, and his cage has fresh lining. I told him goodnight and put a sheet over him to simulate bedtime {training starts immediately}...

I think I will like this forum, it has a lot of info I have already found out a bit online and on Youtube. This will definately be an adenture for all of us! My poor hubby is scared of him biting, but I've gotten some good nips in today, and although it smarts, I have been telling him no bite and grabbing his beak {read that somewhere}

I hope to learn more about him so I can make him more comfortable in his new home!!

 

[QuackerDuke]

I'm assuming I have views, but no one wants to reply? Is any of this even right? Is my poor Quaker going to be a miserable birdy?

 

[Doublete]

I don't have a Quaker.

But. Let him settle in. Sit by him and talk to him. Feed him treats. Don't push.
And eventually when he steps up and eventually bites, tell him no bite and use a scowl (birds know body language) but DONT use physical punishment (aka don't grab his beak).

 

[RavensGryf]

Hi, welcome. The reason you might see that your thread has been viewed many times without any replies, is because many viewers aren't registered members (can't reply without being a member). Also, give it time... the forum might be slower than usual today. In the mean time, keep reading past threads. Lots to learn from that has been posted already. Good luck with your new Quaker!

 

[WilliamKenyon]

Just as quackerduke said, give the bird some time to get used to his surroundings. it may be a good idea to cover all the sides but the front of his cage with a towel/blanket to make him feel safer. In my experience with quackers (i have not owned one, but have friends who do), it is best to give them at least 2 1/5 days to get used to their surroundings because as they are generally quite smart they need to feel in control and used to their environment. Also putting your hand in the cage without touching the bird multiple times a day will really help the bird to get used to you. great result with getting the bird used to you and i hope for the best with you and your bird.

 

[Allee]

Hello and Welcome to the forums! Congratulations, quakers are amazing little birds.

It's good to have lots of patience while getting to know a quaker, they tend to be nippy until they learn to trust you.

I agree with Doublete's excellent advice, don't be too pushy and please don't grab your quaker's beak. Parrot beaks are super sensitive.

 

[Terry57]

Hello and welcome to the forum! I also agree with Doublete and Allee's great advice
I'd love to see a picture of Duke. Glad you joined us.

 

[cnyguy]

Welcome, and congratulations on becoming a Quaker parront! It takes time for any parrot to adjust to new surroundings and a new flock (that means you and anyone else in your home ), and rehomed parrots may need extra time to settle in. Have lots of patience, and take things at the pace your Quaker sets-- don't expect too much of him too soon. Training will go more smoothly once Duke is used to you and feels more comfortable. Sitting near Duke's cage and talking softly to him is a good way to help him settle in and get used to you. You can read and sing to him too if you'd like. As he's more accustomed to you, you might try offering him a favorite treat or two.

 

[Flboy]

Naw, let's ignore the newbi!
Kidding! Welcome!