Audrey does not fly, so his exercise involves a lot of walking. The distance from one edge of the bedroom to the cages is very long.
Audrey walks this distance every night. At first he hated it and would walk towards anything that looked like a perch, especially a finger.
But now Audrey is more or less obliging. He’s much more willing to walk when Conner accompanies him. It’s like they’re racing!
In addition to the exercise being great for Audrey, it helps him feel included. Every night Conner gets to fly and we make a very big deal by praising him and clapping. Audrey gets the same treatment after he completes his hike.
Audrey is almost 21. He’s very feisty for his age!
Three cheers for Audrey! And wow! He’s in darn good shape for that advanced age.
I’m continually impressed with Audrey.
He’s so much happier here in SLC with a room that has fewer windows and dimmer lights. I’m so glad he’s finally comfortable.
Aww, they are so cute on the floor! All my Aussie love the floor, they run around like little feathered beetles! I think it is great you took the time to think out-of-the-box as far as exercise, so many people just stop at flying or whatever playing the bird does on their own.
Where did you get Audrey?
Meg,
My parents let their cockatiels breed and Audrey was born in our house. I actually got to help feed him when I was only 8! He’s been with me for over 2/3’s of my life. I’m very attached.
Its really touching to see owners invest such enthusiasm and love into their older pets, as a birdkeeping hobbyist I too often see older birds forgotten and sidelined as their owners purchase younger more ‘entertaining’ birds. I’d love to see a youtube vid of this! it must be fun watching them ‘race’. Anyway great blog always nice to read these.
Thanks James. I’ll try to get a video.