Is Marvin being generous?

[Strawfrawg]

Here is a picture of Marvin eating the bird cookies I always talk about. These form the basis of his diet along with his fresh veggies and fruits. Lately, though, Marvin wants ME to eat them, too. When I feed him, he will eat part of a cookie and then extend his foot toward me like he is handing the rest to me. He keeps holding his foot out till I take it. If I put it back in his dish he will try to give it to me again. If I put it to my mouth he chirps excitedly. It's the weirdest thing.

I share food off my plate with him...could this be genuine reciprocal behavior? Can a Senegal think at that level, doing something as selfless as WANTING to share? I have never had an animal offer me some of its food and can't imagine that's really what he's doing. He's usually such a little piggy when it comes to food. Everybody else's food is HIS, not the other way around!

[Pajarita]

Of course that is what he is doing! Male sennies are VERY chivalrous with their mates. They allow them to eat first and will even bring food to them. Why don't you just eat the cookie? The cookies I make for my birds are actually quite good (same as the fruity birdy bread).

[Msaad]

Amazing!!! My parrot hate sharing, when i ask him to give them back, he just throw them down where he poop, just to make me quit trying :p finaly i made him share by using treats when he give them back :p

[Pajarita]

LOL - I doubt he does that to prevent you from asking but don't feel bad about it, most of mine would much rather steal food from me than give it.

[JimH]

Bishop does something like this, too. I'm always amazed at how thoughtful he can be. Hope it lasts as he grows up.