New User

[asmoot0518]

Hi Everyone,

My name is Ann and I have a scarlet macaw named Baby. I have had Baby for 20 years and he is 24 years old. Baby kind of picked me for an owner and here we are today.

I am interested in getting more information on training and diet. Since I have had him he has pretty much been on a seed diet but, I also give him fresh veggies/fruits and table food.

We have dealt with his screaming and attacking my husband but, I just couldn't get rid of him I felt I would be giving up on him like the previous owner. So now I am the only one who can handle him he absolutely hates my husband.

I was told if I get him on a regular healthy diet this will help with his attitude.

Well, look forward to reading everyone's posts.

:red:

 

[noodles123]

Awesome! Welcome--this place is full of great people and parrots

Have you looked into adjusting hormonal triggers, like how you pet him and access to shadowy spaces? A sleep routine with 12 hours (10 minimum) is also important for hormones etc, but diet certainly can help with behaviors as well (in addition to behavior training etc).

 

[wrench13]

Welcome and be welcomed.

Somethings you might try; Make sure Baby gets 12 hours of quiet uninterrupted sleep time. Grouchy parrots are irritable, just like people. Have your husband be the ONLY one to offer Baby her favorite treat, so she learns that your husband is a good guy and good things come from him. A seed diet is like a slow death sentence - go to our nutrition sub forum, there are many recipes for fresh vegetable mixes, called chop, which can be prepared in bulk and frozen until needed. Stop with the table food unless you are a vegan household. Most human table foods are very much not good for parrots. Salts, preservatives, oils, added vitamins and other ingredients not good for Baby. An occasional chicken bone - fine. Veggies prepared with no salt or butter or sauces - fine.

These will all improve Baby's health and demeanor. Changing parrot minds on something can take a long long time, but it can be done!

 

[Scott]

Welcome Ann and Baby, thanks for joining!

Healthy diet and sufficient rest is gateway to a great relationship. That Baby "chose" you was essential for a tight bond. He may never accept your husband, but a noble goal is to attempt tolerance and better manners.

Has your husband made efforts to forge a relationship? This thread offers tips to bond and build trust. Might be worth an attempt at "reset." http://www.parrotforums.com/general-parrot-information/49144-tips-bonding-building-trust.html

A mostly seed diet is akin to burgers and fries, however macaws do need a bit more fat than other parrots. Though somewhat controversial, many of us prefer quality pellets to seed. Fresh veggies and fruits should form a significant if not majority of consumption. Helpful conversion tactics: http://www.parrotforums.com/parrot-...7-converting-parrots-healthier-diet-tips.html

Your husband rightly views Baby's beak and lunging as formidable, however macaws are generally less likely to bite in savage manner, preferring the classic bluff. A lot more on the beak written by our resident macaw whisperer: http://www.parrotforums.com/macaws/56384-big-beak-o-phobes-guide-understanding-macaw-beaks.html

 

[Flboy]

Welcome to you!