How do I introduce a new routine?

[June2012]

The thing about bringing a chick is that it doesn't have a new routine to adjust to, other than the part of growing up. Every bird goes through a routine that they stick to for a VERY long time, or even until they're dead. But I'm looking for an older bird in my area to rescue. (There are TONS of offers on Craigslist that are very real...come to the SF Bay, people!) Many of these birds are going because their owners don't have time, or someone they knew dumped the bird on them and they're looking to give it away. (Why not go to a rescue...? *shrug*)

If I were to adopt one, how should I adjust the bird to a new routine and new owners?

 

[Puck]

Birds can change routine. Just bring it home and gauge how its feeling. My Quaker felt at home within a day. Some birds take a long time to settle in. But I wouldn't worry too much--I think most birds face at least a few routine changes in their lives!

 

[veimar]

I don't think it should be any problem unless it's a really OLD bird maybe. I rescued 6 birds (young and adult) off CL and one from Petsmart, and never had any problems with that. In my experience they adapt pretty well to your schedule.

 

[June2012]

Yay! I was so worried if I got an older parrot it'd take forever to adjust. But I'm not that concerned on adjusting time period, but rather, if he or she will pluck. :O

 

[Bandespresso]

My 18 year old CAG adjusted very easily but some take a bit longer and that is fine. Parrots are very smart which is both a blessing and a curse...they totally know that a new home means a new routine and lifestyle; the adjustment period is really them figuring out if the change is for the better. Espresso is wonderful example of an adoption success story: in November, she was terrified of people and wouldn't even think of stepping up and now she is a snuggley, wonderful bird who I can take anywhere! I took her to a horse show today . It's all about patience and respecting your rescue bird's boundaries!

 

[June2012]

My 18 year old CAG adjusted very easily but some take a bit longer and that is fine. Parrots are very smart which is both a blessing and a curse...they totally know that a new home means a new routine and lifestyle; the adjustment period is really them figuring out if the change is for the better. Espresso is wonderful example of an adoption success story: in November, she was terrified of people and wouldn't even think of stepping up and now she is a snuggley, wonderful bird who I can take anywhere! I took her to a horse show today . It's all about patience and respecting your rescue bird's boundaries!

True. I love the advice here, I feel so much better and enlightened. I kept having nightmares of a half naked parrot after bringing it home.

 

[Kalidasa]

Any time a bird is moved to a new location/owner, it's like setting the reset button. Age doesn't seem to matter, a move always blows their minds, and leaves them completely open to new routines, people, food, and words. The best time to introduce a new schedule or routine or diet is right after a move.

 

[RavensGryf]

Although there are many reasons for plucking, certain species are known to go to this habit more easily than others, certain species are more resistant to plucking. If you're very concerned about it, it might help your chances to stay away from species known to be more susceptible to plucking.

Two avian vets have told me a very common reason for plucking is heavy metal poisoning. Some species don't necessarily experience acute poisoning and die with a little heavy metal toxicity, instead 'some might' exhibit digestive symptoms and or plucking as if something is irritating them.

Anytime you get a new bird, and especially rehomed where you do not know the bird's history, I'd take them for a new bird exam, and get them cleared for the more common avian viruses as well. Unlike most mammal pets, birds can be carriers of deadly and contagious viruses which there is no vaccine or cure for. They can harbor disease while looking healthy and gorgeous on the outside. If/when you get other birds too, at the very least follow quarantine practices if not testing also. I am not saying don't get from CL, obviously most should be fine, but just be aware that avian disease is around and out there more than people think.

 

[June2012]

Although there are many reasons for plucking, certain species are known to go to this habit more easily than others, certain species are more resistant to plucking. If you're very concerned about it, it might help your chances to stay away from species known to be more susceptible to plucking.

Two avian vets have told me a very common reason for plucking is heavy metal poisoning. Some species don't necessarily experience acute poisoning and die with a little heavy metal toxicity, instead 'some might' exhibit digestive symptoms and or plucking as if something is irritating them.

Anytime you get a new bird, and especially rehomed where you do not know the bird's history, I'd take them for a new bird exam, and get them cleared for the more common avian viruses as well. Unlike most mammal pets, birds can be carriers of deadly and contagious viruses which there is no vaccine or cure for. They can harbor disease while looking healthy and gorgeous on the outside. If/when you get other birds too, at the very least follow quarantine practices if not testing also. I am not saying don't get from CL, obviously most should be fine, but just be aware that avian disease is around and out there more than people think.

The first thing I'd do is take it to an avian vet, after a day or two to help it settle. Or should I do that as soon before it even gets home??

But thanks for that piece of advice! A lot of people don't know that parrots are birds too and can carry disease like any other bird. Just because it's in a cage sometimes, doesn't mean it can't contract anything!

 

[Bandespresso]

If you can do it on the way home and get it out of the way, I think that's the best option. You'll get the scary stuff out of the way and then you'll be home and quiet and safe.

 

[Birdman666]

You introduce a routine, introduce the bird to that routine, and then stick to it.

 

[June2012]

I feel so confident now! XD Hope I don't scare the feathers off of my new parrot when he or she comes home. I'll be getting one in June when more room is available. :3