African Grey? Problem, Please help?!?

Question

Hi, My aunt passed away and she left her African Grey. She got it over 20 years ago. It's very mean. And we're not sure how to train it. Or if it an be trained. Becuase we don't think she really paied attenion to it. It dosen't know a lot of words. It just meow's and says hello. any suggestions?

Answer 1

If it's over 20 years old then it's not likely you're going to be able to train it. Most animals are best trained when they're young and growing up. But who knows, keep it around safe human contact, it might get used to people and become friendlier

Answer 2

This is how my cockatiel was when we got it.

We just took it slow, same way you would become friendly with a mean PERSON. Birds are a lot smarter than most give them credit for.

Just talk to it calmly, softly, and quietly a lot everyday and whistle to it.

Offer treats (sunflower seeds, something like that) whenever the bird lets you hold it or pet it. And sometimes just give treats to show you're a friend.

Answer 3

Talking has nothing to do with keeping the bird, so dont worry about that, that is what you would call the "fun" part.

I would say talk calmly to it often, keep it away from loud noises (including yelling, radio, and the tv)

It probably doesnt want to be touched, you'll have to gain it;s trust, it probably is afraid right now in unfamiliar surroundings.

You could slowly place your hand by it and offer it a treat, then it might feel better around you. Remember, have everyone talk softly to it.

Answer 4

Hi,

How much do you want to keep this bird, ask yourself that question...

If you do not want this bird, then get in touch with a rescue, a legitmite rescue, not these fly by night home brew rescues.

If you are sure you want to keep the bird and are will to spend the time it takes to tame him down, a Grey makes a wonderful pet. But it takes time, sometimes up to two years to tame one of these guys down. If you do want to keep him. Contact me in private and I will help you. (without charge)