On 08-10-1995, REGINALD wrote about RUBY THROATS:
RA> I will pass you comments on Randy to my friend Matt. He will be
RA> happy to hear about Randy.
One thing I have learned with Randy, experientially speaking.  They do
need some discipline.  They may be small, but can more than make up for
it in sheer willfullness.  I find our relationship is much better if I
daily re-inforce the up/down command training, and by not letting him
come out of his cage on his own.  Before I'll even open the door I've
trained him to go sit on the perch in front of it first, then reach in
and get him out with the "up" command; praising the heck out of him for
being a "good boy" every time.  I also used Kathy's "time-out" corner
idea with a modification.  From time to time he'll go ballistically
hyper, going from the usual conure screaming to out right shrieking.  I
keep a 14 inch square cardboard box with the top cut off in the corner
of the living room where the play gym is.  I will say "time-out!" in a
stern voice, looking eyeball to eyeball at him 3 times.  If he doesn't
calm down I will walk over and take him off the perch, saying nothing
and not making eye contact and put him down inside the box.  Once down
inside I'll say "time-out!" again.  Then, after about 2 minutes take
him back out and return to perch.  We did this for about a week, now,
when he gets to over-wound (you have to expect a certain amount of
rambunctiousness from these little guys), most of the time (about 85%)
all it takes is for me to give him the evil eye and a stern verbal
"time-out" for him to unwind a little.  They really are just like
little feathered two year olds.  A little firmly but gently (and
especially Patiently) applied discipline has made both our lives a lot
happier.
 
RA> Something will come; I am a somwhat patient type.  Parrots taught
RA> me that :)) 
Amen to that!
Peace,
Fr. Joe and the Feathered Flock
>
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