Spoiled.....how to correct

[pchela]

Michael posted an in depth article somewhere about having his Cape Parrot, Truman, shipped and how it went. I'll try to find it and post it unless Michael beats me to it.

First off, parrots don't try to dominate people. They are flock animals and it's simply not in their nature. The idea of flock leader is inaccurate. Parrots want to sit on our shoulders (or heads) because they are more comfortable being up high. Have you given in to her before? Meaning, you ask her to step off of your shoulder, she puts her head down for a scratch and you go ahead and give in and scratch her head? You may have inadvertently taught her that she doesn't have to step down.

To answer your question, it is absolutely possible and very likely that Sam is jealous of your girlfriend. Parrots are smart and if she sees you paying more attention to your gf than her she probably is jealous. This could be why she's nippy with your gf or there could be numerous other reasons. It could be that she's reaching sexual maturity and has decided you are her chosen person. She could be upset about her cage being moved. Try letting your gf be the only one to offer a favorite treat on a regular basis. This is also a situation that target training could help with if you decide you're interested in doing that.

As for the whimpering, is she mimicing something? It doesn't sound like a natural parrot sound. She may have heard that sound on t.v. or from a real dog. Anyway, regardless where she learned it, you might have reinforced the behavior by running to her and making a big deal out of it when she first made the sound. Unless you think it's not mimicry, but a real medical problem. In that case, definitely take her to a vet. But, it's most likely mimicry.

I'm sure other people will have some good advice or information for you.