Hold a longish toy or a perch in your left hand and offer it to him while picking him up with your right hand. In other words, stick something else in his beak instead of your thumb. You want to establish that you are still the one in charge. Keep your hands low, moving the one he's on down, so you don't end up with him in your face. Try these things one at a time until you find a method that works for you.
All pets require training and work to become the best companions.
Birds are no exception. Most of all, enjoy your bird. She has bred over 500 birds at Tucker Farms, her MAP certified aviary. She is also in demand as a speaker on topics such as bird care, breeding, safety and legislation. Kelly is a member of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, the Amazona Society, the Avicultural Society of America and the American Federation of Aviculture.