Posted by Linda L. (64.244.3.129--) on March 07, 2000 (or so) at 11:53:33:
In Reply to: regurgitating and behavior posted by Lauren on March 05, 2000 (or so) at 11:27:44:
: Hi. I've had my lovebird for 3 years. I'm almost certain he was not hand-fed because, although he seems to like being around me, he watches as to HOW friendly or close he lets me be. I say "he", of course, not really knowing if he is, indeed a male or not. Anyway, here are my questions that I'm curious about. I have 3:
: 1. I have him on Harrison's Bird Diet, with which we're both very happy. But once in a while I give him a millett spray, which he loves. But he has, of late, starting regurgitating every so often, especially after he eats millett and flies to sit in front of his favorite mirror. Why? And should I be concerned?
: 2. I have never clipped his wings, so he's not very 'dependent' on me. Is it too late to do this in an effort to make him a bit more 'user friendly'? I'm a bit jealous of my sister's peachfaced, who's a dear. "Byrd" is great -- he's a masked - and has alot of personality, but just not quite "perch" or "finger" friendly. Should I even bother?
: 3. Been rubbing alot on one of his toys -- and my vet tells me he's (or she's!) probably masturbating - is this true? I was just curious.
: thanks in advance for your time!
Sounds like you have a male lovebird and the behavior you describe is normal. Males will feed objects of choice and also engage in self satisfaction. As for the wing clipping, this is your own personal choice. He's been fully flighted for a long time so he may not take limitations very well, depends on the individual bird. Even with clipped wings, he will have his own personality and it will be different from your sister's Mask LB. I have a CAG who loves to interact with me....as long as I don't touch her. Granted, other bird owners have cuddly CAGs but I can accept Ginger as she is.
Linda L.
Lovebirds Plus