Good Morning :D

[EsmereldaLeCrankypants]

Hi,

I'm Belinda, I've joined up to learn more about my newest addition to the family.

Esme is a 5yo female galah who cuted me into buying her at the pet shop. I was told that she was vicious and not to approach her... right up until she fluffed up at me and begged for a scratch on the beak.

The pet shop owner was shocked, as she breeds ecletus (sp?) parrots, and Esme absolutely hated her and would try to bite her every time she approached. She asked if I wanted to open the cage door and see what she would do... Esme climbed out the door, I put my hand out to see if she wanted another scratch on the beak, and she lifted one foot and waited for me to get a bit closer so she could step up.

Then she walked right up my arm, put her face in my armpit and snuggled in. I didn't have the heart to put her back in the cage after that, especially seeing as the pet shop lady nearly keeled over in shock - she was going to sell Esme to a breeder, as she thought she'd be dangerous as a pet...

So... I've ended up with a bird who's major behavioural issue is biting when I stop patting or scratching her, or if she feels ignored. She is happy as long as she is being held or scratched, and her favourite toy is my jewellery :/

Oh, and she's a fussy eater. She picks the sunflower seeds out of her mix (I know they are bad for her - its the bag of stuff the pet shop sent home, I'm trying to introduce new foods but she isn't interested) and throws the rest on the floor :roll eyes:

So.. thats why I am here. I have found a few training videos on youtube, but nothing that deals with her problems directly. I figured the best way to get advice was to ask someone who might be more experienced with galahs...so, hi

 

[GiosMom]

Hi Belinda...welcome! Your in the right place plenty of experienced bird owners here....she sounds very spunky and I love her name!

 

[PortaPerch]

Welcome Esme. I'm new here, too, but finding this Forum somewhat addictive. Chewbaca earned her name quickly, because she chews everything, starting with the most expensive, like jewelry. I set her free in the garden with all its odors and flavors, and she comes over and chews my shoes.

She really likes me, but would just as soon nip my wife.

If you can get a copy of the US Public Broadcasting System program, "Parrots of Oz," you will see them showing Galahs, and commenting they are the clowns of the Australian parrots. That's true. I took video of Chewbaca this morning fighting with an area rug, and losing. She turned turtle a few times, which is always a kick. Just gotta' get the video trimmed to size.

 

[oled]

Hi and welcome to a great forum

 

[wenz2712]

Hello Belinda and welcome to the Forum Would love to see some pics!