New owner of a Solomon/Ducorp's Cockatoo

[Purl]

Hi all~
New to the Parrot Forum!
I used to have cockatiels years ago and have graduated to a Solomon cockatoo. Purl Rose is a 3 yo, hand raised that we purchased from a family who's son has since gone off to college and doesn't have as much time for her. She only came to us yesterday afternoon so I have not handled her yet as I want to give her some time to adjust. She was a hissy last night when I got close to her cage, so I covered 2 sides and the top of her cage to give her some sense of security and proceeded to do my thing around her. I folded clothes with my back to her and spoke gently to her using her name. After about an hour she shook off her stress, preened a couple of feathers , stretched out and then proceeded to eat, which was a good sign. I noticed last night she really enjoyed a whole almond that was in her dish so I think I will keep them seperate to use as a bonding treat. This morning I held one in my fingers and offered it to her and she looked at me and it but wasn't sure..so I put it in her dish. When I turned my back she took it. I did this again and put it in her dish. I want her to know the good stuff comes from me.
She is currently on the Laefaber's Nutriberries, a pellet food that they did not tell me the name of and an 8-in-1 seed blend. I was told she likes corn, cooked carrots and yams which I'll pick up tonight. I also have some apples and banana's for her. Does anyone have a preference of a pelleted food they can recommend? I'll probably switch from 8in1 to either FM Browns or Dr. Harvey's for her seed/nut mix.
My husband and I own a pet supply store (we do not sell any animals..we promote adoption). We are considering getting her a much larger cage as she's in a 22x22x maybe 30+ high. I want her to be able to really move around and be active when she does have to be in the cage.
Any recommendations on how to get her to feel more comfortable with me...I know not to stick my hand in her cage and try to get her to climb up onto it yet. I don't want her to be stressed so is what I'm doing best just move around and go about my business, while talking to her using her name in a calm voice for a few days or so. I don't want to keep her in the cage constantly for too long..but want her transition into our household to be a nice experience for her.
Thanks in advance for your help and suggestions,
Chris

 

[Sulphiria]

Welcome to the forums! Sounds like you're on the right track, now all you need is time

 

[Purl]

Thanks!
Having fun going through our distributors catalogs picking out a big cage and of course a play stand with perch, ladders, etc. for her to hang out on while we hang out in the sunroom together. The advantage of getting what I need at store cost.

Oh..some nice new toys and all different sizes and shapes of perches..wait until my husband sees this bill. LOL!!

 

[Spiritbird]

Many of us purchase from mysafebirdstore.com They are fantastic people who really care about birds.

 

[Mayden]

Ohhh, I'm beyond jealous. I fell in love with my ducorps instantly. Part of me wishes I didn't have to rehome him, but I'm glad I did. They're wonderful. Please post pictures some time

 

[Purl]

Hmm..seems little Purl is an escape artist. My husband came home and found her on top of her cage..VS IN IT!! She seems to be interested in me so I stood by her cage and talked to her...she came over and unruffled her feathers and put her face up against the cage and was looking at me. I then handed her a piece of dried fruit and she took it from me. PROGRESS. I then slid a latch into place, she walked over and opened it..I slid it closed again and she watched my hand do it then turned and looked at me. I see it's going to be a battle of wits...but she showed me her cards. I may be able to outsmart her. LOL!!