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Post by easttex on May 30, 2019 16:02:31 GMT -5
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Post by easttex on Jan 23, 2018 4:09:50 GMT -5
I'm sorry, biteybird. Lucky sounded like a great little bird, deserving of the special attention you gave him. I'm sure it was quite a shock to find him gone so soon.
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Post by easttex on Jan 19, 2018 6:25:40 GMT -5
Dang, Julianna! I know how close you are Oscar, and getting a diagnosis like that can feel like being run over by a Mack truck. I also know you'll bounce back and will be able to focus on the positives.
I didn't know much about the virus, but you sent me into research mode. I probably didn't see anything new to you, but found hope in the Merck Vet Manual. It seems like the good news is that he isn't a baby. Hopefully his immune system will kick in and it will oust the virus. Is he scheduled for a recheck?
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Post by easttex on Jan 19, 2018 6:05:10 GMT -5
I don't know what part of the world you're in, but here in the US, birds are already gearing up for breeding season. It's still winter, but the days are getting longer, which is a key signal to them. That might be affecting Duncan. If you don't already, give him a good 12 hours of darkness every day, to help minimize his awareness of day length.
You can also start training him to spend more time in other places. If he has a play stand or other out of cage perch, start rewarding him for spending time there. (Training him to take station might be a necessary first step.) Do your best to ignore him when he's on you, but make it a big positive deal when he perches somewhere else. If you haven't done much training with him, I'd suggest you research Force-Free Animal Training techniques by Barbara Heidenreich. It can take time and a lot of patience, especially if his behavior right now is hormone-driven, but training with positive reinforcement can be a lot of fun for the bird, and is a good way for you to interact with him without encouraging the Velcro bird syndrome.
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Post by easttex on Jan 19, 2018 5:50:41 GMT -5
Just like Teflon - you don't want your fids in or around your kitchen while cooking with Teflon coated pots and pans. If you have a bird - cook with stainless steal, copper, or ceramic cookware. You can find Teflon in some surprising places. Small appliances like toaster ovens might have it; also space heaters, hair dryers, and even parchment paper used in cooking. The whole list of possibilities is long. It might be unlikely that any of these will get hot enough to emit fumes, but I look for ceramic whenever feasible for peace of mind.
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Post by easttex on Jan 19, 2018 5:40:32 GMT -5
Welcome to the forum, to a very well-birded family! They must keep you busy. I've always been interested in Goffins. I look forward to reading more about your bunch!
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Post by easttex on Jan 15, 2018 5:53:56 GMT -5
I knew the reports from the administration were, shall we say with all the tact and diplomacy we can muster, a little on the rosy side.
I'm very sorry to read about Lola. I've been thinking lately about adopting another Quaker, but my husband, in spite of not being a "bird person", took Peppy's death hard. It's time to talk about it, but in the end I have to respect his wishes.
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Post by easttex on Jan 15, 2018 5:45:32 GMT -5
I'm sorry for Lucky! I hope he feels well and happy for a long time to come.
What is a runner bird?
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Post by easttex on Jan 15, 2018 5:41:34 GMT -5
I think they just get overstimulated sometimes. A little cage time to allow them to calm down is probably the best response, and I would do that after the first time it happens. As for heading it off, try shortening the periods of direct interaction. I know it's hard to not keep doing what they seem to want, but getting bit isn't good for either you or Oscar/Bonnie.
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Post by easttex on Jan 14, 2018 4:52:14 GMT -5
How's the hurricane recovery coming in PR?
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Post by easttex on Jan 14, 2018 4:50:10 GMT -5
Well, okay, if you've forgiven him I guess I can, too.😉
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Post by easttex on Jan 14, 2018 4:48:16 GMT -5
Yes, I would ask if they ever get calls from people wanting them to take pet birds, and if they do, maybe they would keep your contact info in case someone calls about a Quaker. It might be a long shot, but worth trying. What state are you in?
If you're on Facebook, there might be a bird group for your area you could join and explain your situation.
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Post by easttex on Jan 12, 2018 5:28:41 GMT -5
I imagine the test was for PBFD. It doesn't seem very likely, but it will be good to get that eliminated. And a DNA test! With all that nest activity and no eggs, Oscar sure sounds like a male, but stranger things have happened.
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Post by easttex on Jan 12, 2018 5:15:24 GMT -5
I took Dr. Susan Friedman's LLA Professional certification course in 2010. I took a course from Dr Friedman, too. It was very worthwhile. I was amused to see the behavior-shaping taught being used on me by the instructors. I was sorry to find the course is no longer available.
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Post by easttex on Jan 12, 2018 5:09:11 GMT -5
My heart was in my mouth as I read your post, biteybird! I'm so glad it turned out well. I admire your resolve and perseverance. But what's up with the neighbor? I can understand him wanting to supervise if you'd asked to poke around his underwear drawers and medicine cabinets.
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