New african gray

[jsholiman]

We just bought an African Gray yesterday. He seems to adore my husband, but doesn't let me touch him. I know he will need time to get used to us, but I don't want to let him control me too long either. How do I start gaining his trust and love. He seems to be getting comfortable already. He is chattering and whistling. He is 3-4 years old we think, but has not had enough attention at his previous home.

[Michael]

Spend time with him at or around his cage. Not more than the amount of time you are willing to spend every day for the rest of your life with him though. Start getting him out of the cage more. Take it slow but don't allow the bird to overbond to your husband immediately. If he is accepted by the bird, have him spend less time with it and you more so that your bond can catch up. It's better to even out the playing field early on then end up with a "one person bird."

Finally, if you haven't already, teach the parrot to step up and practice step ups on a daily basis to maintain tameness and control. Here is a guide I wrote about how to teach step up in several easy steps.