Previously abused

[EssieN]

Hi I need some advice.
I own 4 birds, 2 conures and 2 cockatiels.
Im having concerns with one of my conures, she came from a terrible pet store who would let anyone open and reach into any animals cage, half the time some bird or ferret would escape and run around the petstore confused and scared. The conure I got was in really bad shape and terrified when I got her. I have tried working with her for a couple months and still almost no progress.
She is terrified of humans and will scream or run away if I come near the cage even. She loves the other birds and plays all the time, its just if anyone comes near that she freaks out. I would love some tips on how to get her more hand tame and less scared so she doesn't have to be stressed anymore.

 

[GaleriaGila]

WOW. First, thanks for rescuing this poor bird!

I'd guess that two months of love isn't enough to make up for all that time of terror! Maybe just let the poor dear learn that nobody is going to attack her... just sit near her cage and speak softly for now, give treats if she'll take them, and just drop them in the cage if she is too scared to accept them from your hand.

Here is some good reading on bonding.


http://www.parrotforums.com/general-parrot-information/49144-tips-bonding-building-trust.html

General Parrot Information - Parrot Forum - Parrot Owner's Community

Again, trying too hard to tame her at this point will probably just make things worse.
And again, THAnK YOU for rescuing this little parrot!

 

[Violet_Diva]

Time is usually key. It can be a long process to earn trust.
If you're able to be in the same room as the bird without it being stressed or scared. Sit a distance away. Maybe read a book so the bird get used to your voice. Gradually move a little closer each day, but once the bird starts looking stressed, move further away again. Spend long periods of time, being non threatening so the bird gets used to you hanging around and learns you are not a threat. Eventually you will be able to sit by the cage. Once you can sit by the cage with the bird being in a relaxed state. Drop a couple of treats into the food bowl, move away slightly, let the bird take the treats. Do this for as many days as needed for the bird to learn that your presence equalls treats. Then start offering treats with your fingers through the bars. That will be the breakthrough. Good luck!