Male or female owner preference

[Nleam]

Hello!

I was wondering if there is any merit when people say that their bird prefers male or female owners? For example, I was told that my Nigel prefers men. I have found that he bobs his head more and gives my husband kisses through the cage bars whereas he rarely kisses me. Other than that, he is more friendly with me, which I’m assuming is because I spend more time with him. And by more friendly, I mean we are working on building a relationship based on what some threads I read on this website. It is definitely a slow process but so rewarding to see sweet Nigel become more comfortable.

So I suppose I’m asking if gender preference is a real thing And would you adopt a parrot knowing it has a preference for a gender opposite yours?
Best,
NL

 

[SailBoat]

Older Parrots may have a preference based on past relationships. That said, I have found that Parrots tie to us on an emotional level, i.e. they perceive a link and will natural flow to one individual more than another.

In a family, there are favorites and this follows along much the same.

Regarding sex where a female Parrot will prefer a male Human, no!

The real trick is to allow the Human with the weaker relationship to provide all the treats and goodies.

 

[saxguy64]

I agree with Sailboat. It really is an individual thing with each bird, and likely more a perception of a human's experience making those claims. My YNA Baxter is the perfect example here. After over a year at a refuge, she was almost considered unadoptable because of her supposed preference for an extremely select group of only women, and then only ones with short hair. I was the first male in all that time to ever handle her, and there was instant connection. After months of denial on my part, I succumbed to her significant charm, and brought her home. Now she will lunge at most women who get too close. I think it's more about being very protective of me, as I am without question, the "chosen one."

So, no. I don't really believe their preference is solely based on a human's gender. As said above, it's really deeper than that. They see us for who we are, not what we are.