So, I've been considering getting a parrot for a few months now, doing a considerable amount of research to make sure I am ready and know what I'm getting into. Today I was talking with my father, who has an Umbrella Cockatoo, and about a year ago he was asked to bird sit someones Severe Macaw. Well, he still has this guys Macaw, and the guy told him a while back that he does not want it back. He offered me taking the Macaw, so I decided to go over and check out the Macaw. The bird is very tame, only problem I have is that he is a shoulder bird. I'm not a fan of this for a few reasons, such as can't really see what he is doing, and it can be a pain to get a bird off your shoulder when he decides he does not want to come off.

So, my question is, how hard is it, or is it even possible, to get him to realize this isn't acceptable behavior? I'm not positive how old he is, I haven't asked that yet, but I am sure that is a factor in how hard it will be to train him not to go on my shoulder.

Also, another thing that kind of worries me, they tell me is a very picky eater, eating pretty much only sunflower seeds and peanuts. I'm sure that over time I can get him to accept other foods, but I'm just curious if anyone has dealt with this before, and if so what the best plan of action is.

Sorry for the long winded post, but just trying to get a gauge on what to expect here.

Thanks,
Brad

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