rubbing with love

[Billie&Lyd]

Hi everyone, this is the first time i've been on a forum and the first week with my booootifull Billie. I loved her from the moment i saw her and i'm sure she felt the same about me. I only popped into my new friends house to meet her hubbyand children and thats where i met her. I could see she needed a lot more love and care she was getting in there noisy/busy house, so i went back a week later and the next week and the next untill i got her home. More in love i've fell and her the same but thats where my consern began. She hadn't been outside her cage for 2 years but we've soon put that right. When i do 'step up' with her she makes a clicking noise, lowers her wings and rubs her tail on my hand. I'm very flattered that she wants to show her love by sicking and rubbing with me but i don't want to this to happen every time we 'step up'. I've read every book i can find on congo's but i carn't find any information about the rubbing (only the sicking, i followed my heart and took it as a compliment before i read about it anyway). I've tried not talking to her while she rubs me but she does it more. I don't want to make any bad habbits at the start and could do with some expert advise (will she get bored)? Thanks Lydia and a loved up Billie

 

[Spiritbird]

My first thought is that this bird is a male because of the tail rubbing (masturbation) when harmonal. The sex in greys is confirmed by a DNA test. I am including a you tube shot of some mating behavior.

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKQYYbTC8yY]YouTube - African Grey hormonal behavior[/ame]

 

[Billie&Lyd]

That it, thats what he's (who i thought was a she) is doing but he flickes he's tail to the side and pulls my hand in realy close. What should i do, not sure i should take it as a compliment lol. Thanks

 

[Spiritbird]

You do not want to encourage him by reacting in a posative way or petting below the neck. Just be neutral. If you can put him back in the cage or on a stand when he does this. You could also have a treat ready to distract him. Another thing is to do a step up onto a perch instead of your hand. You may find him regurgitating as a sign of love time. A male might want to nip at you a little during the phase he is wrapping around your hand. Thank you for giving this bird a better quality of life and know he loves you!!

 

[Billie&Lyd]

Thanks for your help. I'll put it into practise straight away. I love him to, lol !!