Progress?

[Tushkoo]

Hi, would be grateful for your inputs on this one.

Okay so I have only had Kenco a few days but he has settled really well; he's been eating and chirping since the night I got him, although I am aware there is the "honeymoon" period, I am wondering if this is just his nature.

I have been working on getting him used to my hand, because this is the thing that worries him the most. He doesn't fly about like crazy (though he has flown away to another perch, but not in a stressed manner) or squark, but he does move up the perch, away from my finger. So tonight he landed on my mum's hand (in the cage) and sat there for a while, so I thought I'd try again with him later. I've been putting my hand in and resting my finger on his perch - he has been moving towards it after a few minutes and standing on my finger, but not sure if he is fully aware he is actually on it??

He has also been letting me stroke his tummy; though I wonder if this is just because he is too scared to protest? However, if he wasn't happy wouldn't he fly away or attempt to peck? He doesn't seem to be a very nervous bird, but I'm worried I am pushing him too far... well, it's more the fact that I'm not sure what signs to look for if I am!

So would be grateful for any help you can give me tips on whether he might be unhappy/not enjoying the experience. I really don't want to put him off my finger forever :(

[SusanBudgies]

You are doing an excellent job so far. You are being persistent but gentle. You are teaching your bird that your finger is a comfortable place to sit rather than a predator that's going to eat him.

When the honeymoon period is over, your bird might be more reluctant to sit on your finger and let you rub his tummy, i.e., he may realize he can move away. If so, keep your hand (with index finger extended) in the cage and when he moves away, slowly move your finger towards him. If he flies to the opposite side of the cage, wait for him to settle down, and then move your finger towards him there. When he finally stands on your finger -- even if with only one foot -- then hold your position (you might have to rest your arm on something). Also, talk to him sweetly and lovingly the whole time.

Keep up the good work! :thumbsup:

[Tushkoo]

Thanks so much :) it's great to be able to get advice on these things from people who have first hand experience. I will keep going with him then and follow your advice (I wasn't sure whether to remove my hand or not if he moved away, so it's good to know I can let him settle and then try again). I am so in love with him already, he's such a sweet little bird, now I just need to show him that I'm not so bad either ;)

[SusanBudgies]

Yep, when he moves away, just leave your hand where it is and wait for him to settle down. (That's why you'll need an armrest. ;) )

P.S. We'd love to see a picture! :D