new problems

[johnandjessi]

My Wife and I adopted a bird from a couple (that had a lot of birds, they were basically fostering her) She is a 13 Year old cockatoo. She has been in a room w/ approx. 5-10 birds that talk and carry on conversations. She Talks, dances, snuggles, all sorts of sweet things. About 3 days after we got her she decided she hated me, will not get near me, and will run away when I get near her (this has been a week and half). Well she would still snuggle up w/ my wife and cuddle and raise her wing to be scratched and all for my wife up until a few days ago, now she acts deathly afraid of either of us. She will not talk if we are in the room and she will run to the back of the cage and if she gets out she may even take a clumbsy lap (running) around the houose before SHE puts herself back in the cage... We have 3 birds, a 16 week old Green Cheek that is pretty friendly to everyone and especially to me, and a baby b&g macaw (still a baby so ofcourse its cuddly) But Tinkerbell (the cockatoo) was so sweet and loving to us both for 3 weeks as we went to visit her and wait to get her, and then even at home until just recently... does anyone have any ideas? it's making us both sad!

 

[greycloud]

Welcome to the forum! You must remember that this Too's whole world has been turned upside down. Many hate to refer to the fist weeks home as the honeymoon period. Birds are all loving and unwanted behavior stays hidden. As they grow more accustomed to their new people and home and learn to express their desires. Teaching her what are acceptable behaviors is your job as a new parront.
Right now she does not trust you of have a bond with you. You need to individually spend time talking, singing and reading to her. Walk by and drop a very favorite treat in her bowl. Praise her whenever she eats it or shows acceptable behavior. I want to point out that you must find a very favorite treat that can be eaten quickly. Such as sunflower seeds or pine nuts. Only use this treat when working with her and no other time.
As she grows to trust you and realize you mean no harm and bring yummies, you can begin to offer the treats by hand. Ignore unwanted behavior, praise and treat wanted behavior. Patience is a must.
One other bit of info. I recommend you purchase an air filter for the bird area. Macaws are very effected by Too dust and can suffer respiratory problems.

 

[johnandjessi]

the odd thing is my roomate and his girlfriend can walk right over and still play with her like its nothing and she loves it. i just hope she gets back to her normal self soon!