Ask Lafeber

is this normal

we adopted Hansey about 4 months ago after my mother in law passed away. Hansey has known us from our visits at our mother in law’s place. Recently in the last month Hansey has become very attached to my mother in law daughter Sandra. Hansey follows her everywhere around the house, walks around the house following her and seems to go through some type of separation anxiety anytime we leave the house. We leave a light and radio in for Hansey and try not to be gone too long. It’s difficult for Sandra to have a shower because Hansey wants to walk in the bathroom and doesn’t take no for an answer. He’s very cute, but we noticed that he’s very clingy to Sandra and we were concerned about whether this is normal or is there a delayed reaction of missing his original owner and now clings to Sandra? What are your thoughts? Thank You

Hi Cory,

You didn’t mention what species your bird is, but any parrot can decide to attach itself to one person. My main concern is that you are allowing Hansey to walk around on the floor. This is one of the most dangerous things to let a pet bird do. Along with the risk of picking up germs from the floor, there is a risk of being stepped on. I know you are careful and think it would never happen to you, but we recently had a very responsible owner who stepped on her conure and killed it when she lost track of him on the floor. It is a horrible thing to happen, so for Hansey’s safety, please stop allowing this. One of our contributors recently wrote an article about this, and next month we will be covering this and other dangers in a free bird safety webinar. I’ll post the link to the article below and if you want to register for our webinars, you can sign up once the webinar information is posted on out Avian Experts page.

As to the attachment, this is OK but make sure she limits any petting to the head. When you pet a bird on the body, this is something only a mate is allowed to do and it can cause hormonal issues. As to leaving the house, the TV or radio is a good idea as well as making sure Hansey has plenty of toys to play with. You might also work on foraging exercises with him. I’ll post a link to that recent webinar also. I’m glad Hansey found a new friend!

Why You Should Rethink Allowing Your Parrot On The Floor

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda