Hello from Phoenix

[MikeMcKenzy]

New to the forum, not so new to bird care. Just this passed Friday, I adopted a one year old African Grey named Opi. I already enjoy my year or so old Quaker baby Siri. I haven't owned a large bird like Opi before, so I can use all the help I can get. It's has been maybe the most rewarding 3 days of my bird raising life so far. I just hope I can get her to love my family as much as they want to love her.

Thanks in advance for all your guidance and support.

-McK

[Wolf]

I will not say that it won't happen, but stranger things have occurred. I am referring to your last statement where you say that you hope that you can get Opi to love your family as much as they want to love her. I want you to be prepared for the possibility that she will pick one of you to bond with and while she may accept the rest as part of her flock that may be the best that you can hope for. Greys generally will only bond with one and tolerate anyone else. But they bond really deeply and it really is something quite special. I know because I have a Grey as my best friend and she is very jealous of me and will not allow anyone to touch me or try to take her from me for any reason. Now she came to me all plucked naked which has changed and continues to improve, but I have to be very careful with her as the abuse that she suffered appears to have been primarily neglect and possible starvation so she gets upset if I am gone for too long or don't share food and drink with her. She is satisfied with just a taste and with knowing that I am nearby as long as I respond by answering her when she calls for me.
I hope that you enjoy her and the specialness that she will bring to your family.

[Pajarita]

The other problem you might have is the bird's age because it's when they mature sexually (1.5 to 2 years old) that they reject their owners. But, if there is more than one family member interested, it might shift from one to another.

[Harpmaker]

Welcome to the forum MikeMckenzy! Enjoy your stay.

We love pictures of all the birds-and you too, if you like.