Transporting a Grey

[Taprock]

I haven't mentioned this or even asked questions because I didn't want to get my hopes up. Now we have definite plans to adopt an 18 year old African Grey (not sure if he's a CAG or TAG, but I don't care either way so we'll determine that later). He has only had one owner, only been handled by her and has never broke the skin on her. He has some plucking issues but no bare skin. She has developed Bird Fanciers and he has been moved to her daughters. We are driving 4 hours, one way to get him tomorrow. No one in the house will touch him so I have to get him from the cage to the carrier one way or other. My carrier does not have a perch in it do, I need to have one for that length of time? Is it better to cover the carrier or leave it so he can see out? Any other helpful hints would be great.

 

[JerseyWendy]

A perch would be nice but it's not absolutely necessary. As for covering him, I'd cover him half way and see how he does. If he panics or appears to be nervous, you can cover him more.

WOW!! Exciting times!!!

 

[Dopey]

How exciting and scary at the same time.
A perch would be nice but only one of my carriers has a perch in it and usually the birds are all attached to the sides of the carriers anyway.
Take a towel with you and read up on how to towel them so that you know if necessary.
You may not needs it but it will help to know how to do it if necessary.

 

[Scott]

Congratulations on your Grey! Hope you will have a wonderful and long-lasting relationship!

While a perch is not mandatory, it is easy to modify many carriers. I have a series of thick plastic-bodied carriers with vents and a wire-mesh front door. You can drill a small hole in the side of such carriers and insert a typical commercially-purchased wood or synthetic perch and tighten with a wing-nut on the outside.

I've made this mod for carriers to the vet, and they seem to enjoy both perch and bottom time during the relatively short trek. IMHO four hours is manageable either way!

 

[Aquila]

My Grey rode on my shoulder, but it was only about a 10 minute drive.

Be aware that some birds may get a little carsick, so don't get concerned! Letting them see out or forward can help. If he's friendly, consider taking him out of the carrier for a little bit in the car, with a towel over your lap.

When I put Sydney in a carrier, I don't have a perch because it's easier for him to stay flat, I put a towel down on the bottom so he has something to grip and isn't sliding around.

 

[Taprock]

I am wrapping my arm and taking a towel. Hopefully it goes ok. No one will touch him. I am exuding confidence to my family and theirs but I'm feeling a bit nervous. Just so there is no blood, I don't want to have to lay down on some strangers floor! I think I'm honestly more nervous about the fact they have dogs. Dogs scare me more.

 

[Taprock]

Is a 12" wide 13" high and 17" long carrier big enough four four hours?