My Eclectus, Ms. Clectus, Has been acting up recently. I think it is hormones!

She was a rehome. We don't really know how old she is - I suspect about 3 or so, but don't know. She came from an abusive/neglect environment. I have had her about a year and a half, and in that time we have made HUGE progress- She went from being a vampire bird that drew blood from anyone that got near her to being semi-handleable, and sometimes even friendly. She seemed to be getting better each week.

But, the past few days, she has gone WILD. She started out shredding a lot of paper, and 'rooting' around her cage, kind of like she was thinking about nesting. She has also been extra loud, screaming, whistling, & talking almost all day. Last night, when I went to put her back in her cage, she lunged at me and bit, took a good chunk out of me, too!

I didn't back down- I have learned, especially with this bird, that you are better off taking a few nips and remaining 'the boss' than letting her win, especially when it comes to something like stepping up. She was a little better this morning, she let me get her out of her cage, but once she was out, she attacked AGAIN.

Hopefully, this is just her hormones acting up!

-Andrew

let s hope so. sounds like you have come great strides with her....

I don't have personal experience with hormones crazed birds, but from what I've heard that is textbook behavior!

I agree, you've come so far with her! I hope she's back to normal soon!

It sure sounds like hormones Andrew. I know the last few days, Chico (DYH) has been wound just about as tight as he can get. He still wants attention, but its like if you ask him if he wants to be petted, he gets so excited and loopy that he just can't control himself. Lots of pinning, flaring and strutting going on too, and the Zon musk is hanging heavy in the air.

She is doing a LITTLE better today- Though I have a chunk out of my hand... I covered her and let her 'take a break' after she tried to eat my face... Hopefully it'll pass!

sure does sound like PMS.......... ooops, hormones that is. hehehe

Andrew - expect it to last about a month or so. She may even actually have a couple of eggs. I have learned to respect these times with my females and allow them to be "mommies" during this time period. Believe me, you won't win. Eclectus are very protective of their nests. Don't allow your feelings to be hurt -she's just being a bird... but she will get over it.