Sweeney

Hello, I`m Sweeney, a Senegal parrot with a gruff demeanor but a soft heart. I came to Mickaboo after my previous guardian passed away. It`s taken some time for the volunteers to understand me, but I`d like to share a bit about myself.

In my previous home, I lived in a small cage and didn`t get much interaction beyond my owner. While I was attached to her, I wasn`t given out-of-cage time or introduced to other people, which left me with a limited comfort zone. I also naturally tend to flee when I`m scared, but I never learned to fly well, so I often panic and try to hide when I`m overwhelmed.

My foster dad is gently helping me adjust to new experiences -- things like toys, play gyms, and healthy foods -- without stressing me out. It`s been a challenge, but we`re both making progress. I now take food from his hand, let him scratch my head in the evenings, and eat a healthy diet with the occasional treat. I`ve learned to come out of my cage and go back in on my own. I can say a few words and make kissing sounds (though I still like to snarl!), and I`ve even improved my flying skills to navigate and land safely.

I`ve also started spending supervised time with other Poicephalus parrots in foster care. Since I didn`t grow up around other birds, this is a new but rewarding experience. I`ve even made a best friend, Otis, an older Red-bellied parrot whom I adore; you can read about some of our adventures here. I like to roughhouse a bit, so my caretaker should keep me away from small, shy, or much larger birds.

According to Mickaboo`s avian vets, I`m in good health, though I`m still a bit nervous about vet visits. With time and patience, I`m hopeful I can continue to do well in a human world, but I do have my limits and need my human companions to accept me as I am.

I`d thrive in a home where I can be near other birds and with someone willing to spend hands-off, ambient time with me. Once I`ve had time to adjust, a large aviary with other birds might be ideal. I don`t need constant one-on-one attention, but I appreciate a calm, encouraging presence nearby.

If you think you could offer me the right environment, please contact Mickaboo`s Poicephalus coordinator. I`m looking forward to finding a place where I can truly belong.

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