What an acrobat. Tiki is always challenging himself with obstacle courses, trying new ways to get from point A to point B. He loves making his way around his perch/gym from branch to branch and exploring his toys. For a while he was a little shy about being held for more than a few minutes, always looking over his shoulder to make sure his perch or cage didn't vanish. He also preferred to perch on hands versus shoulders. (I've read a lot of the articles pro and con about shoulder perching, agressiveness, dominance, etc. - I personally don't think it's a bad habit.) He's becoming much more comfortable being held now, and will sit on my shoulder while I work or (his favorite) during dinner. He also loves water - showers, bath time - he gets so excited spreading his wings and dipping his head into a stream of water. I think he'd sit with the blow dryer on him for hours.

Carla has become a true bird person. She and Tiki have really bonded, and he loves when she sings to him. He warbles some sounds back, and will sometimes prompt her to sing more by opening and closing his beak like a silent opera star. He has "spoken" a few words and sentences in a language all his own, but is clearly interested in vocal communication. His health is perfect, his appetite still strong, and he is a treasured member of the family. Sarah continues to be fascinated by his antics, and has done a great job sharing in his care and upkeep.

- posted by J-Birds @ 5:59 AM |