MOMMA PARROT

I am a single mother of one - One green bird - A maroon belly conure to be exact. And No, I’m not one of those fanatic pet owners (although my friends my think otherwise). I just happen to be a Momma Parrot.

My Kobi, is a He in my life (however it is quite possible that he can be a she, but paying for blood work is not a top priority for me). Lately “he” has found too much pleasure in rubbing his tail butt up against my foot or knee - similar to the position that a small puppy dog may take un an unsuspecting leg… Initially, about 2 years ago, I thought “O how cute, he’s letting me rub him” (he’s extremely feisty and rarely likes to be rubbed); however now I have some concern that I am contributing to the molestation of a Parrot. He enjoys it a little too much and I question should I allow it to continue in my presence…? He practically lays completely flat with his tail but vertical and “tick ticks pops and jumps” as my foot (yes my foot with sock) rubs… As long as He doesn’t start laying eggs…(well there would be no need for blood work).

I have always said that having the bird is Gods’ way of preparing me for children one day. Within the first 3 months that I had him I guess he was around age 2… I potty trained him using good ole classical conditioning… Positive reinforcement… “Don’t potty on mommies back and you can ride on her shoulder for 5 minutes” 3 years later, he has the potty on command trick down so well, that he actually “holds it” until I happen to make eye contact with him (because he knows that I have to see him go in order for him to leave the cage) and I no longer even need to give him the command (go potty). However, like any two year old, he has his accidents…

This is where my patients is tested… I have been known to curse a bird out a couple times a week. Reasons justified of’course - BITTING (me), SHITTING (outside of cage), SCREECHING (for no reason), YELLING (for my attention), FLYING (because he remembers he’s a bird), and whatever other unsatisfactory behaviors he shows may warrant a curse out depending on my mood. I know, it’s a sad shame. I’ve had friends threaten to call PPS (parrot protective services) on me a time or two. BUT, It’s all done in LOVE. Teehee

Speaking of love, we have our lovey dovey moments too… when he snuggles on my shoulder under my ear and whispers (in his gurgly yest audible parrot voice) “watchadoin” or (in his not so audible chuckle) “mhombhou” - his attempt at “I love you” - No need to go on, the love is there.
He’s in the room ringing that damn bell… BUT he’s quiet. And I’m glad. Since the weekday starts again tomorrow, I better go give him some love because he will be without me for a couple hours after being up under me most of this weekend. But again, I’m not one of those pet owner fanatics…