Hello. I've recently been re-homed a Green-Cheek Conure. He's about a month and a half old and I've had him for about two or three weeks now. This is the first time I've owned a parrot and though I've done quite a bit of research regarding caring for him, I'm still a little fuzzy on some of the details. If some heroic parrot veteran would be so kind as to offer some advice I would be very appreciative
One thing I'm concerned about: I understand that parrots need to be kept on a solar schedule. I live in the Pacific Northwest where it's often very cloudy and though I have his cage almost directly across from the window so it gets maximum exposure to sunlight but I'm worried that with the crappy weather it wont be enough. Do I need to get some special lights or anything like that?
In addition, I was curious as to whether or not I could have him on my shoulder without being fully trained to step up. I've been having him out of his cage (his wings are clipped, by the way) for about 2-4 hours on days I work and 4-6 on the weekends, he really likes to be on me while I do stuff but I cant have him on my hand 24/7. I don't really wanna set him down either because I'm worried he'll get into stuff or get lonely. Can he be on my shoulder as long as I'm the one who put him there? He's very well behaved while he's up there and hasn't ever really bitten me (nibbles don't count right?).
Lastly, I was wondering if anyone knew of a way to sex GCC that doesn't involve DNA Testing. I know it's the only surefire way to tell but the nearest Avian Vet is an hour drive and I don't really want to have him in the car for that long just to get him sexed.
If anyone has input as to the stuff I've mentioned (or any other tips) I would be very grateful! He's been a pretty well-adjusted bird so far but I wanna make sure I get everything right.