New member and recent YCM enthusiast

[FishinMagician]

I just got a 9 year old from an elderly friend who couldn't give as much attention to him as she used to. He, at least she thinks it's a he, is very friendly already. He says hello and whistles. He also mocks my movements sometimes. It's all new to me, so any advice is appreciated.

 

[Scott]

Welcome to you and your YCM! If you have not yet visited, our Macaw Forum has many topics of interest. Feel free to post specific questions!

 

[Flboy]

Welcome to you! Such an amazing adventure has started!

 

[GaleriaGila]

Welcome!

You found a great community. We will be happy to join you in celebrating your new relationship. How WONDERFUL that you were able to step in and give this bird-in-need a new home!

I'm not sure what your level of experience is, so here is some stuff I often share with folks new to birds.

Here's some reading on bonding for you.
http://www.parrotforums.com/general-parrot-information/49144-tips-bonding-building-trust.html
http://www.parrotforums.com/general-parrot-information/
http://goodbirdinc.blogspot.com/2012...n-parrots.html


Most of us swear by our avian vets in the event of health concerns.
Certified Avian Vets
https://abvp.com/animal-owners/find-an-abvp-specialist/
If none are near you...
Avian Veterinarians
http://www.aav.org/search/custom.asp?id=1803
In my opinion, any of the vets listed here should be better than a regular vet.
International contacts, too.

What's the diet? That's critical for health. Too many are kept on seeds or other poor-nutrition things. They need veggies, legumes, grains... pellets are a good staple. Here's what I use.
http://www.harrisonsbirdfoods.com/
I feed Harrison's, supplemented by fresh healthy treats. My first, and later, my current avian vet recommended it. My bird loves the pellets now, but to get him converted, my avian vet suggested putting pellets out all day, and putting seeds (his old diet) out for two 15-minute periods a day. That would sustain him but leave him hungry enough to try new stuff. I presume the same technique could be used to get him to eat other healthy stuff, like fruits and vegetables! My guy was eating pellets in a couple of days, and now I can feed a good variety of other stuff, knowing he has the pellets as a basic. Pellets are out all day... fresh treats a few times a day. I also like Harrison's via mail because I never have to worry about out-of-date products.

Since you're a new parront, I'll just drop a note about avoiding teflon pans, which are lethal to birds if even slightly overheated.

I'm glad you're here. Lots to learn and share and enjoy!