Per

[crewchief]

We just got a 22 yr old Molluccan Cockatoo, it seems to want to leave it's cage, so we put up a floor perch, how do we get it to go to the perch or will that just happen on it's own? Thanks everyone

 

[Molcan2]

I would put the floor perch next to the cage so that he can get used to it. I would just open the door and allow him to come out on his own. He will eventually explore the perch when he is ready. Eventually you can move the perch. You can also put some of his favorite treats/toys on the perch to entice him a little. I wouldn't force him or you could make him fearful of the stand. Some Toos are easier than others when it comes to introducing new items, some take to it right away others like to inspect if for a few days/weeks first.

 

[ann]

does he step up on your hand? if so, he can step up, and step down onto the perch. if he doesnt step up, molucan2 gave some great advice if he is too afraid or aggressive to step up, you can have him step onto a wooden perch or dowel. if that doesnt work, you can clicker train him, just google "clicker training parrots" and tons of great articles will come up. good luck

 

[crewchief]

He seems like he wants to come to us, but he hasn't yet. He has let me pet him and he takes food from my hand. Actually he opened his wings and let me scratch underneath them.

 

[triordan]

He seems like he wants to come to us, but he hasn't yet. He has let me pet him and he takes food from my hand. Actually he opened his wings and let me scratch underneath them.

That's a great start! Take your time you have many years ahead of you!