My new ekkie is scared of shadows

[vsk101]

I brought home a 6-month old eclectus a few weeks ago. I'm a new owner and am doing the best I can to give him a happy home. I've noticed in the last week or so that he is horribly afraid of shadows all day long. It's particularly a problem because when I approach, there is a huge big monster behind me on the wall! It's possible this was going on from the time I got him, but I really have only noticed it in the past week or so. I did notice before that between late afternoon and early evening the shadows would bother him for < 1 hour.

Does anyone have a suggestion as to how to help him with this? I moved his cage away from the window temporarily since there are also some scary birds outside. I have also covered one side of his cage with a sheet (another side is against the wall), and this seems to help some. I'm wondering if there is a way to desensitize him to the shadows or whether more (or less) lighting would help. I've tried slowly walking with him toward the shadow, but it doesn't entirely work because it creates a shadow on another wall which then gets his attention. I would appreciate any suggestions for how to make him more comfortable. Thank you

 

[RisingSun]

It willl take time for him to get used to his surroundings in general. He will learn what the "normal" shadows are. My 7 year old still gets spooked from time to time. They are still wild animals and give into instinct (such as looming shadows which may indicate a predator in the sky, or close by).

 

[plumsmum2005]

Yes agree with RisingSun. If you can approach from a different side of his cage that may help. Can you even move his cage again?

My Plum was scared of the wild birds outside and he still is fearful of 'jack a dandy's, the light reflections on the ceiling from watches, cutlery etc. He has gained confidence over time as I am sure yours will.

Do what you can to help for now, draw blinds to reduce shadows. You say you can walk with him towards the shadow, which says he is trusting in you. If he knows you can see them and are not scared.

I used to take Plum to the window to look for wild birds and although jumpy to start with and watching my reactions closely is Ok with them now.

 

[LordTriggs]

just sounds like a young nervous bird getting spooked.

I'm an adult (legally) and my shadow can give me a good spoop every now and then.

I like the idea of trying to introduce the shadow in a sense. Maybe try a small lamp on a table using your spare hand to show shadows aren't scary and keep him interested? Maybe even put a treat on the shadow so he willingly touches it?

 

[plumsmum2005]

... a bit like making rabbits on the wall?

 

[LordTriggs]

... a bit like making rabbits on the wall?

nothing wrong with some shadow puppet theater

I found Abe Lincoln to be a fun one to make

 

[Scott]

I'd follow some of the posted suggestions to eliminate the shadow. Many birds are intrigued by shadows and some will naturally become fearful. It is possible at some point he may realize the shadow is non threatening, but he is young and it is best to reduce stressors whenever possible.

 

[GaleriaGila]

The Rb was afraid of shadows, too, horriby, until he was maybe 6-9 months old. He got over it. Hang in there... great suggestions above. I wish I had had them. Good luck!