Hello from Montana - I have a Yellow naped Amazon and I've had him for almost 7 years. He is very sociable but is starting to screech. Does this mean he is bored? Also, any hints out there on a bird litter that isn't so messy. Right now I'm using the corn cob stuff and it's continually all over my floor. Also his down feathers are everywhere. I know part of this goes with owing a bird, but any housekeeping hints out there? TIA Paula

Hi, Welcome to Parrotchatter! We really enjoy pics here, I would love to see a pic of Louie.

Has Louie had some change in his life lately? If he is 7, he could be in a hormonal stage, or it could be diet, exercise, lighting, or health issues. You mentioned boredom, does he play with or chew his toys?

We use Carefresh which is very safe and absorbent. It doesn't fly around with the slightest breeze and we have large macaws. The feathers, well, that is another story. LOL

Lot's of questions, so pull up a perch and chat!

Hi there! Nice to meet you. I only have one macaw so I just use newspapers. My only cleaning tip is that when you get it all cleaned up - just start in again! hahaha!

welcome to parrot chatter, paula!

there are many reasons that louie could be screeching, as JR mentioned above. does he get a lot of out of cage time? does he have plenty of toys? any sudden changes in his lifestyle or environment? also, is he getting a good 12 hours of dark sleep at night?

i would stop using the corn cob bedding ASAP if at all possible. it's known to cause health problems from impacted crops if they eat it. and plus, like you said, it's really messy. i have always just used newspaper. it holds all the mess and you can pick it up easily. FEATHERS on the other hand will always be everywhere lol!

Welcome to Parrot Chatter! Chico, my male DYH is starting to get quite a bit more vocal (squawking) lately. In his case, I suspect hormones for sure, since it is getting to be that time of year, and there hasn't been any other change that I can pinpoint. He's also gotten more 'cuddly', if you can use that term for a crotchety old Zon that I have yet to manage to actually handle. He's really craving skritches lately though, leaning right into them and closing his eyes with sort of a blissful expression.

Thank you everyone for your responses. I think I realized that Louie misses me. I've been travelling more with my job and that would be the only change he's had. He seems to be healthy. I am going to get rid of his corn cob litter and use newspaper. As soon as I figure out how to put his picture on this board I'll do it. Again, thank you all. I hate feeling like I might want to get rid of him, cuz I love him so much.

Welcome to PC Paula.

is there someone that can be with Louie while you are away? if not, maybe you can ask your vet if he/she knows someone.

welcome to the group

welcome to pc