Posted by Anthony C. on May 12, 19100 at 13:27:01:
In Reply to: Need help with newly weaned male eclectus! posted by Maryjane on May 12, 19100 at 10:33:29:
Well, first of all, congratulations on your newest
flock member. I think you've chosen wisely.
The agressive behaviour you are describing is not uncommon with Eclectus in the first year, from around the time they become aware of their surroundings. In my opinion this is a very "scary" time for babies as they must familiarise themselves with there immediate surroundings. This should build their confidence so that they may tackle new things after they leave the "nest". Ricky my male red-sided displayed the same sort of behaviour. The way I handled it was not to push his progression. Let the bird show you where its limits are. Speak softly and be consistent in spending time with him. Do not push handling him. Take it one step at a time. This may seem very time consuming and I know your probably aching to hold him but once he knows what to expect and realises your not going to bring harm to him, his confidence will grow exponentially. You will then find him wanted to investigate everything you are doing. Watching your lips forming words and wanting to taste whatever you eat!
Regarding the two "windows" to aquire a sweet tempered bird, I adopted my male at 7 weeks and my female (Fiona) at 8 weeks. They both went through the aggressive stage (Fiona more than Ricky) but have both outgrown. They are both very sweet tempered and allow people to handle them as well as ourselves!
Good Luck