A baby parrot needs to be cuddled, cuddled, and introduced to a variety of toys and environments to help it develop and socialize with confidence. However, it would be wise not to spoil your bird excessively. Instead, what you should be trying to do is help your baby bird develop into a mature, independent parrot, capable of taking care of itself.
Responsible breeders realize the importance of socializing the chicks they sell with humans and other birds as well. Some breeders may hand rear babies in the presence of tame adult parrots who will function as role models for these babies. You’d better also look for a breeder who will teach their babies socialization skills and even vocabulary training right from the start of hand-feeding.
Baby parrots demand careful handling and initial socialization by the breeder should be followed by proper training and further socialization by the new owner. For example, when the baby parrot wants to nibble on your fingers or something else it shouldn’t, give it a small toy to chew on instead.
It is also beneficial to get your baby parrot used to being handled by different (trusted) people. African Greys, and Congo African Greys in particular, are said to be wary of strangers and given to bonding exclusively with their owner if not exposed to other people on a regular basis.
This is why you should really avoid buying an unweaned baby bird. Many people believe or have heard that building a stronger bond with their new pet is a better option, or maybe they are trying to save a little money and think it will be fun. Other people unknowingly teach their bird to bite by reacting inappropriately to a baby’s first attempts to experiment with its beak. Similarly, a fledgling will not know how to respond to a screaming or begging baby, so this inappropriate behavior can quickly become the norm for that bird, and soon it will continually scream or beg.
Bringing a new baby parrot home is a magical experience, but even more moving is watching it grow into a well-balanced, friendly parrot, so pay extra attention in these early days to avoid problems later on.