Biting Macaw

Question
Hello,

I inherited a blue and gold macaw a week ago.  He is always biting.  He follows me around constantly so I was very brave on Saturday and whilst lying on the sun lounger I covered my face and let him climb on me to see what he would do!  He danced all over and tapped on me and regurtitated.  I now know what that means from a previous question someone has asked you.  

My problem is the biting.  If I feed him or approach him (or anyone does) he attacks.  I have some pretty painful bites on me so would like some advice!  He seems to start all interaction - even when he does the approaching - with some biting.  Help!

Linda

Answer
Hi Linda,

This can be a serious problem, especially when dealing with such a large bird. Here are some articles that should help you get started. But you might also want to consider hiring a parrot behavioral consultant to help.

http://www.companionparrot.com/agression-and-biting.htm

http://www.companionparrot.com/FORMgallery.htm (the Beak Book by Sally Blanchard is an excellent resource. You can also buy it cheaper if you go to www.amazon.com)

I hope this helps. Good Luck with working with him.

-Maggie