On 07-3095, AUDRA MCMASTER wrote to ALL:
AM> I'm looking into buying a Green Wing Macaw. He is 12 years old.
AM> ... My question is: if he has
AM> been with one owner for 12 years can he be trained and have a good
AM> trusting relationship with a different owner?
    I believe it can be done, especially with a greenwing.  They are 
smart birds and take very well to a "mutual respect" type of 
relationship.  Unless he has been teased/abused by someone of either 
sex, I don't think he would be sex specific.  What I mean by "mutual 
respect" is letting him know that you are boss, but that his opinion 
counts also (can be done).  He will gain trust that way.  If possible, 
before you buy him see if you can handle him.  If so, I wouldn't worry.  
If not, how much hostility does he show towards you?  Will his beak 
intimidate you?  My greenwing loves to cuddle, go bye-bye, play with the 
dogs (she's in her cage, egging them on!), see if she can outsmart me 
and, bite my husband.  If I put her on his arm, she takes one nip on his 
arm, just to let him know that she's boss.
      
claire
claire.conner@logon-philly.com
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