You see so many big smarter birds with feather plucking, the fact that they have such full beautiful feathers means they're well cared for and has plenty of stimulation and I'd imagine just as much a member of the family as a dog :) He seems so gentle with him and I can tell they both really love each other!
Wouldn't it be great if when a dog was kicked, his hair would fall out? Then humans would hopefully think twice b4 they did such an aweful thing. Naive, I kno.
Wow you are a rare person , you have respect for your birds feelings , and you are intelligent. Most people that have birds should never have done so. I also respect my bird and she absolutely trusts me 100%. I know that i am lucky as most people have not the patience to gain real trust My bird is an female Alexandrian
I run a rescue so I have 21 birds and an African grey named lola we have 2 macaws , 5 umbrella cockatoos and a samen crested cockatoo , goffin cockatoo. Ow where was I oh yeah we also have a yellow napped Amazon, a dubble yellow headed Amazon , and a blue-fronted Amazon, 2 cocktails, 2 Indian Ringnecks , dwarf macaw or mini macaw , 2 parakeets and last but not least 2 white doves
I love African Greys' civility, no primal shrieks like a cockatoo or macaw. But I love their copying of noises in the environment and random words. They love to study and watch what goes on around them.
wingsNpaws I'm a Reiki Practitioner and give Reiki to my animals who I'm a guardian to. I'm also learning animal communication, to take my healing further to another level. Watching you with Smoky made my heart and soul dance, you and Smoky have the most beautiful, respectful relationship and such a strong bond, it's so wonderful to see. Thank you for sharing your advice re appropriate handling and training of these stunning birds. Namaste 🙏💙
it is really moving how tender and gentle you are with Smokey. You probably would be very good with dogs and human babies too. It is a real treat to watch you work an dlearn form you. Thank you!
Great video and you definitely seem to be a good parront. People need to remember though that being pet on the back is, for birds, an extremely stimulating thing. More-so that than feeling attacked. Many birds who are pat on the back grow up to see their humans as their mates and end up hormonal, confused, extremely frustrated and this usually leads to bad health (emotionally and physically) and often plucking as well. It's usually best to respect their natural instincts and only pet birds on their heads.
UA-cam: "Sooo.... you wanna watch a parrot video from 2015 even though you never intent to get any birds?" Me: "... okay, lol." Well, thanks UA-cam since I really enjoyed this ^_^. What a responsible owner.
We got our grey 4 months ago, my wife had bought the bird 18 yrs ago but he stayed with her ex. Since he passed, Max has gravitated to me being the male. At first he was a bit understandably shy but has now allowed me to pet his head and neck and he is basically very affectionate. I have a knack with animals, not sure why but I think it might be due to a gentle touch and steady hand, I had always wanted to have a bird of any kind and glad we have Max now. I do notice that when I scratch his neck and head, he does this serpentine twirl of the neck thing around my fingers and holds his one foot on my other finger, I guess to hold me there. I would like to think we have a "bonding" thing going on. I enjoy your video's, very informative and thanks for posting them..
What an absolutely BEAUTIFUL bird, both in condition and personality. I've had a couple of African Greys. I had one when it was over 3 years old, and what was known as a "Bronco",, which is......a biting, wild-like and untameable bird. I tried for MONTHS to "tame" him, being very gentle and patient. No luck I'm afraid. I would just LOVE to have THIS bird. He/She? gives so much love in return for your wonderful, gentle handling.
This is the second video of yours that I've seen, and I can already tell you're a decent human being. Thank you for your humane owner approach to these awesome animals!
Omg that actually made me laugh.😂 Interestingly enough, I think this concept works on most ppl and animals. I tend to something I don't like if I know that something I like is coming up next.
SinisterC6 u better get a male. Most of the time in my training and creer most succefful bonds were a mix of genders. So if u wanna get a affectionette bird get a opposite gender. Not that saying that two individuals with same gender cannot bond like the mix one or even better its only that its more succeffull. Well thats my tip for u
Not everyday you would watch a video or see in person a very cuddly and comforting African Grey Parrot of any gender or size being petted they are usually not the cuddliest of parrots but this one is a rare exception I can see.
Man youre inspiring. Such great advice. I'm new to owning a bird and am in my research phase right now. I'm loving your videos so much. Very informative
I've been watching your videos non stop to prepare myself to buy a 6 month old green quaker. You and Smokey have one of the best relationships I've seen.
I agree. I dont like how Parrot Wizard grabs his birds by the skull and lifts them up before the bird has a chance to brace itself. They may hang by their beaks but they brace their muscles appropriately beforehand. Just because you can do something to an animal doesnt mean you should.
We had rescue birds when I was younger. Cockateils, that hated us even coming near them. Over time though they got comfortable enough come sit with you, brave enough to see what you were eating and try to take some. We weren't able to pet them (Though I think we just stopped trying in the end) but they would let you hold them some times. They LOVED my mum though, I think she gave them food they weren't meant to have.
I showed my girls this video to show them a loving bird which turned into a science lesson on handling birds lol. My dad's family always had big birds and I wish they had known this because their birds were jerks. (macaws). I love that your teaching people to be gentle. Your bird clearly respects and loves you. Great video.
LOL @ "jerks"! My African Grey is a jerk sometimes too. He's 12 years old and has been through quite a lot of stressful situations with me since he was a baby bird. Family deaths, nervous breakdowns, you name it. So sometimes he's a butthead but I know he loves me and just wants to be near me 24/7. I love my Sir Boris Shitzalot!
+Jules Da Llama Hi Jules, your English is just fine; way better than my Spanish :) Anyways, here are my recommendations. You were very lucky to have recovered your bird if he flew outside 3 times. Even though Smokey is flight trained, I don't take her outside without a harness because African Grey parrots are not the best free fliers; especially without a flock. By themselves, they easily spook and may have a fly off. With that out of the way, I would begin by keeping the bird and his cage inside your room. Each day, spend time sitting next to the bird's cage and talk to him in a soft and reassuring voice. Once in awhile, drop a piece of treat inside (whatever treat he likes best). If your bird shows signs that he's scared, just back off and move slower until he is more comfortable. Eventually, try feeding the bird through the bars of the cage. It's very difficult to tell you through typing on here, but what you want to essentially be able to do is feed the bird with your hand inside the cage. Once you get to that point, you can use the treat to try to convince the bird to step up onto your hand in order to get the treat. If he does, reward him immediately, give him the treat, and let him step back onto his perch. If he steps onto your hand, don't get too excited and try to take him out to play or else it will scare him. Slowly let him stay on your arm longer and longer until you can move him out of his cage and back again. Whenever he is on your arm or out of the cage, reward him profusely (that means a lot). This process will probably take you at least 2-3 months.
Thank you a lot! Sorry for the late response. I did not see any notifications. The only thing I am scared of is him biting me hard if I try to hold him like I used to years ago. I think he is not used to anymore. He likes to be petted but if I open the cage he would get on top and then I would be afraid of trying to get close to him. But I might take him home at the end of the summer and start over. I think it will be easier if he gets used to my room and be more with me alone. Maybe he will feel safer to get out and not biting me.
I once was told by someone doing a falconry display that the birds don't enjoy being gently scratched or petted, as it ruffles their flight feathers and they have to re-adjust and preen. Now, that's probably not a problem for birds that are kept largely indoors as pets, but is this something that also applies to a more sociable bird like parrots? I'd prefer not to annoy a bird because some of them have veeeeery large beaks, but I'm guessing that ruffling is more of a problem for owls, falcons and birds of prey like that?
You are doing a great job. I had an african grey who died of cancer at the age of ten but my relationship with her was very similar to what you have with yours. I wish you many years together.
Smokey looks lovely, sleepy and calm. As an African Grey owner I have been watching your videos since I got my Huginn and it has almost been two years!
Hi! I recently found your videos and really like them, and Smokey is stunning! There's just one thing that I'm reacting to, which is regarding stroking the back as you are showing. Have you considered the hormonal effects it will have in the long run? Especially on a handfed bird that is already likely to get sexually imprinted on her human. If you yourself are aware and have found a balance of how much you can touch her like that without triggering her to start regurgitating or showing other mating behaviours, I just think it could be a good idea for you to mention that factor. And that the "safe area" for cuddling (ofc it's good to be able to touch other ares if needed) is around the head/neck to avoid hormonal problems. While on the back, vent area and under wings may be strongly triggering, since many people are struggling with hormonal birds or may be unaware that they will create one in the future even if their young bird isn't showing any problems yet. Even if it doesn't mean aggression in all birds it's of course frustrating for a parrot to get triggered and led on without ever being able to make a nest and breed with its human. ;)
Narreen Hi, thanks for your input. You're very correct in that excessive petting on the back can trigger the bird to become very hormonal and get the wrong message. However, you're also correct that there's a threshold on when it starts to be very sexually stimulating and I always try to work below that threshold; so yes, there is a balance. I completely understand your concern; however, in creating these videos, there is already SO MUCH that I feel needs to be discussed and addressed and often, I miss some points. In creating this video, for example, my purpose was to explain how forcing a baby bird to accept petting and getting very rough with against their will may lead to phobic behaviors in the future. So although the points you discussed are also very important and true, I simply forgot to mention them. lol. You'll be surprised at how much work, time, and thought goes into creating these videos but even then, there are always things that I miss.
Narreen Narreen, I agree with you totally. I have had parrots for 30+ years now. My Grey passed away after 27 yrs with me. I have adopted a Goffins Cockatoo,he is 28 yrs old. I read up on 'Toos before getting him and all the things I read said DO NOT PET BIRDS ON THEIR BACKS! It is a form of getting them sexually excited and confuses the bird like crazy. My Blue Front will sit for hours on my lap,letting me scratch her head and neck,however I will not pet her back. Same goes for my 'Too...Jonesy
rockinrowdy13 you and Nareen brought up a very good point of what I was concerned with. I don't want Max to get a sexual imprint of me so that even my wife won't be able to handle him...he is very social and a jabber mouth (no screeching) I'm glad he likes to whistle and talk ;)
It's amazing how different the different species of birds respond. I recently got my first bird, a kestrel (but I've been working with raptors for over four years now). She absolutely hated being touched in the beginning and the only way to get her over it was with dogged persistence and giving her a lot of food while she's sat with you. After a month and a half she will now let me check her wings, keel and breast muscles for the most part without complaint and when she does get annoyed her bites are gentle warnings instead of a full on attack. I might see if she enjoys head scratches but I highly doubt it and to be honest most of the touching with her is to assess her health rather than for my own pleasure. to be honest letting me clean bits of caught food from her beak and her cleaning tiny scraps of food from my fingers is probably the most affectionate she's ever going to be. She does fly well though.
Love seeing someone who actually understands animals. I see so much negative body language coming from animals on other channels and the owners seem to not even notice. You're awesome! Don't let anyone else make you feel otherwise. = ) Namaste
This really helped cause I’m actually looking into buying an African grey I’m thirteen I’ve had experience with birds and have two budgies I’ve been researching for a while
@@Bussyhandler More experience, budgies are so much more different than African greys. The best way to find if you can handle a parrot is to volunteer at sanctuaries, you get to practice the responsibilities without possibly ruining a life. Those only volunteer beginning at 16 RARELY, but usually at the minimum of 18.
You can see that Smokey is very comfortable around you by how puffy she makes her feathers showing that she feels save. I got my african grey when I was 5 years old, I did not have any knowledge about parrots , my grey loves attention but almost always after being petted he bites and does not stop biting. I watched your video on how to tame them and to have a bond first then shouting ouch. I will definitely work on that. love your love for parrots and the way you are with Smokey.
Just wanted to say that watching your vids have helped me a lot with interacting with my newly acquired rescue Macaw, in four weeks he has gone from being a nippy demon to a tolerant pet, working towards being a little sweetheart.
I thought I had heard you should never pet any parrot on their back because it indicates a sexual thing for them. Then they end up mating with you. Is that correct?
You're such a wonderful caretaker! You have a lovely bird sister. Many blessings to you and your beautiful soul for seeing and honoring her. :) Thank you for helping to create heaven on earth.(no religious affiliations intended) Stay well, and stay conscious. x
there is thing called trainig... im my experience most indians/pakistanis dont respect that (i am pakastani myself) a aniaml has feelings its not just there for you to do wahtever you want with it
WingsNpaws i saw this video loads of times and my african grey is like 3/4 years old and now he lets me touch he's back no problem but i am scared to do this back sit because i donno if he will hate me do i do it is it ok
He might be annoyed with you. My friends Quaker parrot gets nippy and uncomfortable. Its a vulnerable position to be in for them. If you're thinking of doing it have treats to hand. Some parrots associate this position with visits to get their wings/nails clipped which is not a fun experience for most of them. Id say start slow, just holding a hand on the back. Then work your way up to laying on the back.
Hello, my father got an African grey from his friend because his children weren't taking good care of it ... she is 3 months old now ... she never lets anyone got close to her to even touch her but she is hand fed ... could that change ?
Make her some warm FRESH sweet potato mashed. Be sure there are no hot spots. Offer it between your fingers slowly. It puts them into baby mode. Keep loud noises down . Make sure you feel calm because they can sense it if you are nervous. Don't go around her when you are sweaty or angry. Don't try to bathe her right now. Be patient.
This is very helpful for me, as Scooter likes her neck and under her neck just fine, but doesn't like her head scratched...so I'm carefully adding that to our petting....she is a character, like Smokey! Scooter is 4. She was given to me a couple of months ago because her parents are moving to Hawaii....(I would have moved with her, but lots of people think of pets as temporary!) She is the NEW companion to my 46 year old Amazon , I've had him since he was one, and a rescue from a very abusive home(!!!) His lifelong significant other died several years ago (at 80!!!), and their pet parakeet died last year.....thanks for running these videos! The highest praise I can give you is, your're not an idiot....and thank you for that, too!!!
Thanks dude, probably the most balanced advice and viewing I have seen. I like that you mentioned, on the back isn't natural behavior but learned. I believe a lot of UA-cam videos are to blame for rehoming. So thanks for the really solid insights
This is a very helpful video! I have two zebra finches, and I used these steps to making them affectionate, and now, instead of freaking out every time I change their water, they sit calmly on their perch. Thank you!
I love my african grey, shes such a great personality. She was owned previously by a nun who never let her out of the cage and now shes super happy in our house as a family with my little sister and parents. Shes fantastic and my god are these birds beautiful!!!
I really love your videos! Smokey is so beautiful and healthy, and it is so clear she is happy and loves you. I really appreciate your gentle message in this world. Thank you :) x
I am owned by a Congo African Grey. I think it may be one of the most complex relationships that I have ever had. I've watched you w/Smokey for years and she is not only beautiful, but reflects the commitment you have grown with one another. I hope you will have many years together
Hopefully adopting a 40yo african grey female this weekend, so I'm binging your content to try and give her the best life I possibly can, she'd been stress plucking from neglect, so were going to interact with her daily and introduce her to our flock, wish me (and my partner) luck!
She is one of the healthiest, most well-feathered greys I've ever seen. She's obviously loved and well cared for.
Melanie Jansen Thanks for the positive comment Melanie :)
You see so many big smarter birds with feather plucking, the fact that they have such full beautiful feathers means they're well cared for and has plenty of stimulation and I'd imagine just as much a member of the family as a dog :) He seems so gentle with him and I can tell they both really love each other!
@Harry Baals I said he as in the man in the video
@@senorMckenzie You did actually call the bird a him. "He seems so gentle with him"
Wouldn't it be great if when a dog was kicked, his hair would fall out? Then humans would hopefully think twice b4 they did such an aweful thing. Naive, I kno.
It’s 3 in the morning and I don’t have a bird
😂😂 same dude same
i'ts 11pm at night, and I have an essay due in an hour. oh and no bird.
4 in the morning
have a test tomorrow, 94 more slides to read and 2 pages full of exercises to practice. No bird.
I still haven’t handed mine in, I am now getting penalty points. I’ll probably fail. No bird.
What a responsible bird owner! A rarity for sure, much respect dude.
Fujoshi 97 tottaly
Yeah, but I still would never say I "own" another animal.
They live with me.
They are not my slave or property.
@@shoulders-of-giants yeah I can't stand it when people say they "own a animal".
Nah, most people with birds are lovely to them. You only hear of the few exceptions.
U
good owners = good birds, the proof is here.
+Ryan Metz Correlation =/= causation.
Yeah, but I still would never say I "own" another animal.
They live with me.
They are not my slave or property.
@@Groaznic not with birds, it´s proven that the way you treat them will change how they are. lol
No one like, it’s 500 likes.
Anyone else watch these but don't ever own or see parrots? Lol
We live vicariously through these parrot owners 😀
@@themoonlitquill tell me about it lmao
LOL!! You know it bruhh 😂😭
I don't own a parrot but I'm researching because I'm planning on getting one.
I do. I always wanted to own one even as a child. I want a Macaw or an African grey.
Wow you are a rare person , you have respect for your birds feelings , and you are intelligent.
Most people that have birds should never have done so.
I also respect my bird and she absolutely trusts me 100%.
I know that i am lucky as most people have not the patience to gain real trust
My bird is an female Alexandrian
I run a rescue so I have 21 birds and an African grey named lola we have 2 macaws , 5 umbrella cockatoos and a samen crested cockatoo , goffin cockatoo. Ow where was I oh yeah we also have a yellow napped Amazon, a dubble yellow headed Amazon , and a blue-fronted Amazon, 2 cocktails, 2 Indian Ringnecks , dwarf macaw or mini macaw , 2 parakeets and last but not least 2 white doves
Some pet owners in general shouldn't have gotten a pet in the first place
I love African Greys' civility, no primal shrieks like a cockatoo or macaw. But I love their copying of noises in the environment and random words. They love to study and watch what goes on around them.
If there is an ideal bird owner, you are it! That is one lucky African Gray! Keep it up, man!
bcxbxxcx You're too kind. I feel very lucky to have her. Thanks for watching!
That African grey is as cared for as a real child 😂
Dood
wingsNpaws I'm a Reiki Practitioner and give Reiki to my animals who I'm a guardian to. I'm also learning animal communication, to take my healing further to another level. Watching you with Smoky made my heart and soul dance, you and Smoky have the most beautiful, respectful relationship and such a strong bond, it's so wonderful to see. Thank you for sharing your advice re appropriate handling and training of these stunning birds. Namaste 🙏💙
Yeah, but I still would never say I "own" another animal.
They live with me.
They are not my slave or property.
I like what you teach. You observe & adapt; I am doing the same! I taught 20 years & children are similar..observe & adapt.
Agreed 100%
Lorence Winchell yea thats true
Lorence Winchell that’s super awesome. Im considering teachin highschool once I graduate!
You are such a lovely, sensitive guy. You'd be a blessing to any pet you owned.
ooo she wants
Amanda Fairchild - ALL pet owners should be this way.
NimaLema
Yeeee
Amanda Fairchild “sensitive”
it is really moving how tender and gentle you are with Smokey. You probably would be very good with dogs and human babies too. It is a real treat to watch you work an dlearn form you. Thank you!
Saturn Inc what is a trat?
Truth speaker right here, yes profile pic as well
Great video and you definitely seem to be a good parront. People need to remember though that being pet on the back is, for birds, an extremely stimulating thing. More-so that than feeling attacked. Many birds who are pat on the back grow up to see their humans as their mates and end up hormonal, confused, extremely frustrated and this usually leads to bad health (emotionally and physically) and often plucking as well. It's usually best to respect their natural instincts and only pet birds on their heads.
african greys are so cute
cute? :S Conures are cute
Planci Acanthaster
especially sun conure s
Expensive as well 💰 good talkers
Planci Acanthaster yes I have one. I love him
I have one too :) She is a really good talker, but we are still trying to get her to stop biting x
the key to birds is head scratch, no one, even eagles can't resist it. :)
Özgün Demir my lovebird doesn't like head scratches XD he prefers it in the face
because thats the one place they can't care for themselves...
Pi A the Amazon I'm getting hates head scratches
my budgie hates being pet and bites me... :(
@@batpiss2742 I've had my amazon parrot for 10 years and he doesn't like it either
i heard that bird say "harder" "here we go again"
what 31 people would dislike this? This bird loves this guy and you can tell he loves her
You’re so respectful and gentle with your pets. Thanks for setting a great example for all pet owners.
you raised smokey up so well :) i hope to be like you when i get a pet in the future
aww thank you :)
I LOVE BOTHE OF YOU! SMOKEY IS SO HAPPY...YOU HAVE BEEN SO CONSIDERATE AND WARM AND WONDERFUL... *MEGA BLESSINGS TO YOU AND SMOKEY!!!*
UA-cam: "Sooo.... you wanna watch a parrot video from 2015 even though you never intent to get any birds?"
Me: "... okay, lol."
Well, thanks UA-cam since I really enjoyed this ^_^. What a responsible owner.
Gosh what a well taught and well cared bird this man knows what he is doin
I love how Smokey just doesn't care if you lay him on his back, you've obviously spent time bonding and being gentle with him. Props to that!
Aww, how adorable :) You're so sweet and gentle with that cute little bird. You have a good heart.
She’s so gentle and cute she’s kinda like my African grey.
We got our grey 4 months ago, my wife had bought the bird 18 yrs ago but he stayed with her ex. Since he passed, Max has gravitated to me being the male. At first he was a bit understandably shy but has now allowed me to pet his head and neck and he is basically very affectionate. I have a knack with animals, not sure why but I think it might be due to a gentle touch and steady hand, I had always wanted to have a bird of any kind and glad we have Max now. I do notice that when I scratch his neck and head, he does this serpentine twirl of the neck thing around my fingers and holds his one foot on my other finger, I guess to hold me there. I would like to think we have a "bonding" thing going on. I enjoy your video's, very informative and thanks for posting them..
YOU ARE SUCH A GOOD BIRD DAD!!! You deserve so much recognition and love and NOT just from your lovely feathered baby.
What an absolutely BEAUTIFUL bird, both in condition and personality. I've had a couple of African Greys. I had one when it was over 3 years old, and what was known as a "Bronco",, which is......a biting, wild-like and untameable bird. I tried for MONTHS to "tame" him, being very gentle and patient. No luck I'm afraid. I would just LOVE to have THIS bird. He/She? gives so much love in return for your wonderful, gentle handling.
You are really brilliant man. Smokey is super sweet. Thank you for your community service!.
Good job young man! Smoky is GEORGEOUS! & you’ve done your homework! BRAVO!!! 🥰
Your Grey sure is a beauty!
This is the second video of yours that I've seen, and I can already tell you're a decent human being. Thank you for your humane owner approach to these awesome animals!
New African Grey owners; Listen to this man, he knows his stuff!
Kind and gentle owner. The parrot looks so healthy and content.
That bird is fabulous
Excellent advice Smokey looks so calm and well adjusted.. just the best behaved bird .. I love your videos!
Hello Kathy. How are you doing today?
Is this applicable to the female human species?
lol
Omg that actually made me laugh.😂 Interestingly enough, I think this concept works on most ppl and animals. I tend to something I don't like if I know that something I like is coming up next.
fe-male... human? Never heard of that kind of animal before. Or at least never seen one of this specimens in my basement ;_;
SinisterC6 it could be my mom is our birds favorite I think my mom could train lady (the birds name is lady)
SinisterC6 u better get a male. Most of the time in my training and creer most succefful bonds were a mix of genders. So if u wanna get a affectionette bird get a opposite gender. Not that saying that two individuals with same gender cannot bond like the mix one or even better its only that its more succeffull. Well thats my tip for u
Not everyday you would watch a video or see in person a very cuddly and comforting African Grey Parrot of any gender or size being petted they are usually not the cuddliest of parrots but this one is a rare exception I can see.
Such a beautiful bird you have there!
its so true... affections and interaction makes the different. We have a 14 week old African and she is a bundle of LOVE!!!!
Man youre inspiring. Such great advice. I'm new to owning a bird and am in my research phase right now. I'm loving your videos so much. Very informative
I've been watching your videos non stop to prepare myself to buy a 6 month old green quaker. You and Smokey have one of the best relationships I've seen.
You deserve 1M subs you are better than parrot wizard
I agree. I dont like how Parrot Wizard grabs his birds by the skull and lifts them up before the bird has a chance to brace itself. They may hang by their beaks but they brace their muscles appropriately beforehand.
Just because you can do something to an animal doesnt mean you should.
lmao i love when it randomly talks, like, "what are you talking about, hoomin?"
Smokey is too cute
You such a good owner you raised him well you grew him up he trusts you with all it's soul
i'm glad you're very gentile with animals. wish more people were like that as well
We had rescue birds when I was younger. Cockateils, that hated us even coming near them. Over time though they got comfortable enough come sit with you, brave enough to see what you were eating and try to take some. We weren't able to pet them (Though I think we just stopped trying in the end) but they would let you hold them some times. They LOVED my mum though, I think she gave them food they weren't meant to have.
This is awesome! You are like the parrot whisperer! Great videos!
Its sooooo nice to see how well you treat your bird. I'm sure he's a lucky guy to end up with you!
Idk why this was in my recommended but I'm not disappointed
I showed my girls this video to show them a loving bird which turned into a science lesson on handling birds lol. My dad's family always had big birds and I wish they had known this because their birds were jerks. (macaws).
I love that your teaching people to be gentle. Your bird clearly respects and loves you. Great video.
LOL @ "jerks"! My African Grey is a jerk sometimes too. He's 12 years old and has been through quite a lot of stressful situations with me since he was a baby bird. Family deaths, nervous breakdowns, you name it. So sometimes he's a butthead but I know he loves me and just wants to be near me 24/7. I love my Sir Boris Shitzalot!
+Jules Da Llama Hi Jules, your English is just fine; way better than my Spanish :) Anyways, here are my recommendations. You were very lucky to have recovered your bird if he flew outside 3 times. Even though Smokey is flight trained, I don't take her outside without a harness because African Grey parrots are not the best free fliers; especially without a flock. By themselves, they easily spook and may have a fly off. With that out of the way, I would begin by keeping the bird and his cage inside your room. Each day, spend time sitting next to the bird's cage and talk to him in a soft and reassuring voice. Once in awhile, drop a piece of treat inside (whatever treat he likes best). If your bird shows signs that he's scared, just back off and move slower until he is more comfortable. Eventually, try feeding the bird through the bars of the cage. It's very difficult to tell you through typing on here, but what you want to essentially be able to do is feed the bird with your hand inside the cage. Once you get to that point, you can use the treat to try to convince the bird to step up onto your hand in order to get the treat. If he does, reward him immediately, give him the treat, and let him step back onto his perch. If he steps onto your hand, don't get too excited and try to take him out to play or else it will scare him. Slowly let him stay on your arm longer and longer until you can move him out of his cage and back again. Whenever he is on your arm or out of the cage, reward him profusely (that means a lot). This process will probably take you at least 2-3 months.
wow I learned alot
Thank you a lot! Sorry for the late response. I did not see any notifications.
The only thing I am scared of is him biting me hard if I try to hold him like I used to years ago. I think he is not used to anymore. He likes to be petted but if I open the cage he would get on top and then I would be afraid of trying to get close to him.
But I might take him home at the end of the summer and start over. I think it will be easier if he gets used to my room and be more with me alone. Maybe he will feel safer to get out and not biting me.
Josie Rosa the neko
I once was told by someone doing a falconry display that the birds don't enjoy being gently scratched or petted, as it ruffles their flight feathers and they have to re-adjust and preen. Now, that's probably not a problem for birds that are kept largely indoors as pets, but is this something that also applies to a more sociable bird like parrots? I'd prefer not to annoy a bird because some of them have veeeeery large beaks, but I'm guessing that ruffling is more of a problem for owls, falcons and birds of prey like that?
wingsNpaws I'm a new Subscriber!!!!!! I will watch all of your videos every DAY!! That a wittle fwuffy Parrot 🤗
You are doing a great job. I had an african grey who died of cancer at the age of ten but my relationship with her was very similar to what you have with yours. I wish you many years together.
My greencheek conure being so screamy today made me think of a potential meme with a Greencheeked Kanye.
Smokey looks lovely, sleepy and calm. As an African Grey owner I have been watching your videos since I got my Huginn and it has almost been two years!
Hi! I recently found your videos and really like them, and Smokey is stunning! There's just one thing that I'm reacting to, which is regarding stroking the back as you are showing. Have you considered the hormonal effects it will have in the long run? Especially on a handfed bird that is already likely to get sexually imprinted on her human. If you yourself are aware and have found a balance of how much you can touch her like that without triggering her to start regurgitating or showing other mating behaviours, I just think it could be a good idea for you to mention that factor. And that the "safe area" for cuddling (ofc it's good to be able to touch other ares if needed) is around the head/neck to avoid hormonal problems. While on the back, vent area and under wings may be strongly triggering, since many people are struggling with hormonal birds or may be unaware that they will create one in the future even if their young bird isn't showing any problems yet. Even if it doesn't mean aggression in all birds it's of course frustrating for a parrot to get triggered and led on without ever being able to make a nest and breed with its human. ;)
Narreen Hi, thanks for your input. You're very correct in that excessive petting on the back can trigger the bird to become very hormonal and get the wrong message. However, you're also correct that there's a threshold on when it starts to be very sexually stimulating and I always try to work below that threshold; so yes, there is a balance.
I completely understand your concern; however, in creating these videos, there is already SO MUCH that I feel needs to be discussed and addressed and often, I miss some points. In creating this video, for example, my purpose was to explain how forcing a baby bird to accept petting and getting very rough with against their will may lead to phobic behaviors in the future. So although the points you discussed are also very important and true, I simply forgot to mention them. lol. You'll be surprised at how much work, time, and thought goes into creating these videos but even then, there are always things that I miss.
Narreen Narreen, I agree with you totally. I have had parrots for 30+ years now. My Grey passed away after 27 yrs with me. I have adopted a Goffins Cockatoo,he is 28 yrs old.
I read up on 'Toos before getting him and all the things I read said DO NOT PET BIRDS ON THEIR BACKS! It is a form of getting them sexually excited and confuses the bird like crazy. My Blue Front will sit for hours on my lap,letting me scratch her head and neck,however I will not pet her back. Same goes for my 'Too...Jonesy
rockinrowdy13 you and Nareen brought up a very good point of what I was concerned with. I don't want Max to get a sexual imprint of me so that even my wife won't be able to handle him...he is very social and a jabber mouth (no screeching) I'm glad he likes to whistle and talk ;)
***** The other issue is that we have never had Max "sexed" so we have no idea if have a female or male....
It's amazing how different the different species of birds respond. I recently got my first bird, a kestrel (but I've been working with raptors for over four years now). She absolutely hated being touched in the beginning and the only way to get her over it was with dogged persistence and giving her a lot of food while she's sat with you. After a month and a half she will now let me check her wings, keel and breast muscles for the most part without complaint and when she does get annoyed her bites are gentle warnings instead of a full on attack.
I might see if she enjoys head scratches but I highly doubt it and to be honest most of the touching with her is to assess her health rather than for my own pleasure. to be honest letting me clean bits of caught food from her beak and her cleaning tiny scraps of food from my fingers is probably the most affectionate she's ever going to be. She does fly well though.
1:17 When he says “Started on the right foot,” Smokey is standing on his right foot. Coincidence? Yes.
Awwwe love .I have a African grey to and she is also so cuddly
ccoool thanks good info
Love seeing someone who actually understands animals. I see so much negative body language coming from animals on other channels and the owners seem to not even notice. You're awesome! Don't let anyone else make you feel otherwise. = ) Namaste
This really helped cause I’m actually looking into buying an African grey I’m thirteen I’ve had experience with birds and have two budgies I’ve been researching for a while
Maybe wait until you're a bit older...
@@PV-po6zt why?
@@Bussyhandler More experience, budgies are so much more different than African greys. The best way to find if you can handle a parrot is to volunteer at sanctuaries, you get to practice the responsibilities without possibly ruining a life. Those only volunteer beginning at 16 RARELY, but usually at the minimum of 18.
@@PV-po6zt yes but age doesn’t always matter, but thank you
@@Bussyhandler No, it does. You should have experience, and cannot get that experience until later.
And here’s wishing you the very best for all the new ventures, that life has in store for you
I wish all animals had an owner like this👏👏❤
I wish all humans had an owner like this. FTFY.
You can see that Smokey is very comfortable around you by how puffy she makes her feathers showing that she feels save.
I got my african grey when I was 5 years old, I did not have any knowledge about parrots , my grey loves attention but almost always after being petted he bites and does not stop biting.
I watched your video on how to tame them and to have a bond first then shouting ouch. I will definitely work on that.
love your love for parrots and the way you are with Smokey.
my budgie hates being stroked on the head.he has got viral plumage disease and is bold and cant fly so i cant do half the stuff you do with smokey
Just wanted to say that watching your vids have helped me a lot with interacting with my newly acquired rescue Macaw, in four weeks he has gone from being a nippy demon to a tolerant pet, working towards being a little sweetheart.
I thought I had heard you should never pet any parrot on their back because it indicates a sexual thing for them. Then they end up mating with you. Is that correct?
+exactly150 What I'd read was that it's petting them on their body under their wings that indicates a sexual thing for them.
It's petting them anywhere under the shoulders. No exceptions.
Actually you can pet them on their feet without it being sexual
A good rule of thumb is that if the bird cannot reach/groom an area of their body with their beak, it's ok to pet there.
You're such a wonderful caretaker! You have a lovely bird sister. Many blessings to you and your beautiful soul for seeing and honoring her. :) Thank you for helping to create heaven on earth.(no religious affiliations intended) Stay well, and stay conscious.
x
Conscience?
it doesn't wana talk. it only talks when there's no one.
so does mine
blue zone Maybe it's shy? :p
blue zone African greys are very shy which is why they talk alone
My grey mostly talks alone, but she’ll only communicate with me and sing, repeat phrases and mimic noises with me
Mine is very chatty. She even calls my cats over to her cage so she can meow at them
I can't believe that African Grey was so quiet! Much respect to you and what you do.
i put my bird on her back delicatly and she freaks out and flies on my fridge
That's the case with me with girls
there is thing called trainig... im my experience most indians/pakistanis dont respect that (i am pakastani myself) a aniaml has feelings its not just there for you to do wahtever you want with it
@@shawshank_1317 wish i can like that twice 😂
Danial Siddiqui um no I have seen a lot of Pakistani Indians loving and caring and training the birds right
@@jigginforbiggins8213 yes!
What a phenomenal creature! And Smokey is awesome too ;-) But yeah : thanks for caring so much for such an intelligent bird!
WingsNpaws i saw this video loads of times and my african grey is like 3/4 years old and now he lets me touch he's back no problem but i am scared to do this back sit because i donno if he will hate me do i do it is it ok
He might be annoyed with you. My friends Quaker parrot gets nippy and uncomfortable. Its a vulnerable position to be in for them. If you're thinking of doing it have treats to hand. Some parrots associate this position with visits to get their wings/nails clipped which is not a fun experience for most of them. Id say start slow, just holding a hand on the back. Then work your way up to laying on the back.
That's one healthy happy birb. Such wonderful condition
Hello, my father got an African grey from his friend because his children weren't taking good care of it ... she is 3 months old now ... she never lets anyone got close to her to even touch her but she is hand fed ... could that change ?
Sam Felfly Absolutely! 3 months is still very young.
Make her some warm FRESH sweet potato mashed. Be sure there are no hot spots. Offer it between your fingers slowly. It puts them into baby mode. Keep loud noises down . Make sure you feel calm because they can sense it if you are nervous. Don't go around her when you are sweaty or angry. Don't try to bathe her right now. Be patient.
beautiful bird man. my friends grandfather had one since he was 20 and he was like 85 years old when i met him and his bird was still alive.
My bird hates getting patted HATES IT
Kristian Wayte what type of bird is it?
No one likes to be PATTED but everyone loves to be PETTED...pls grammar
I have a red collared lorikeets and he hates being patted too. He only allows me to rub his beak.
I respect you as a bird owner. You are excellent with your bird.
I have a pigeon
I have a penguin
I have a dove
@@sielicja I have 4 ferrets
Smokey is so cooperative in your videos, she doesn't wander off at all!
Why am i watching this i dont have a parrot
This is very helpful for me, as Scooter likes her neck and under her neck just fine, but doesn't like her head scratched...so I'm carefully adding that to our petting....she is a character, like Smokey! Scooter is 4. She was given to me a couple of months ago because her parents are moving to Hawaii....(I would have moved with her, but lots of people think of pets as temporary!) She is the NEW companion to my 46 year old Amazon , I've had him since he was one, and a rescue from a very abusive home(!!!) His lifelong significant other died several years ago (at 80!!!), and their pet parakeet died last year.....thanks for running these videos! The highest praise I can give you is, your're not an idiot....and thank you for that, too!!!
Yes my little brother pets my birds hard I hate that
I love that you give "how-to" advice for both babies and older birds! Thank you!!
Hello 👋. How are you doing today?
I bought one of these. Tasted pretty good.
Dean Young wat??????????????????
I got it xD dear god...
lol 😂
you got me.
Andy Jones are you a vegan
Thanks dude, probably the most balanced advice and viewing I have seen. I like that you mentioned, on the back isn't natural behavior but learned. I believe a lot of UA-cam videos are to blame for rehoming. So thanks for the really solid insights
It's "lying" on her back, not laying.
I had a budgie and he used to lay on his back and in his smaller cage he would do flips I loved him so much ❤
This is a very helpful video! I have two zebra finches, and I used these steps to making them affectionate, and now, instead of freaking out every time I change their water, they sit calmly on their perch. Thank you!
What a wonderfully tempered grey!
I love my african grey, shes such a great personality. She was owned previously by a nun who never let her out of the cage and now shes super happy in our house as a family with my little sister and parents. Shes fantastic and my god are these birds beautiful!!!
Best bird channel. I love your approach.
I really love your videos! Smokey is so beautiful and healthy, and it is so clear she is happy and loves you. I really appreciate your gentle message in this world. Thank you :) x
CharlieLoti Thanks for watching and for the kind words! :)
You have a great attitude toward taking the time and understanding of the bird.
I am owned by a Congo African Grey. I think it may be one of the most complex relationships that I have ever had. I've watched you w/Smokey for years and she is not only beautiful, but reflects the commitment you have grown with one another. I hope you will have many years together
Just got my 8 week old baby Grey yesterday ^_^ I already love her to bits!
can i get a update on how she is?
Hope you still have her!
@@applejellypucci Of course ^_^ she's my best buddy. Sweet as can be.
Heyy any updates can it talk?
you really are a considerate and sensitive birdowner.
Does anybody else like the feeling of feathers?
They feel so smooth and soft.
Hopefully adopting a 40yo african grey female this weekend, so I'm binging your content to try and give her the best life I possibly can, she'd been stress plucking from neglect, so were going to interact with her daily and introduce her to our flock, wish me (and my partner) luck!