They are more aware of their surroundings than most other species and require a great deal of attention to be properly socialized. Our hand feeding diet is Exact Hand Feeding Formula by Kay Tee. The ease of preparation and convenience in storing is important but not the sole factor in making the decision to use a prepared formula. It is more expensive than the concoctions we formerly prepared, but also more effective in producing rapid growth rate with a minimum of crop problems. We close band our chicks somewhere between 18 and 21 days.
Greys have big feet and toes which develop rapidly.
It is better to risk losing a loose band than to wait until too late and try to squeeze those fat toes into your band. We use a size 14 band which can be ordered from the Society of Parrot Breeders and Exhibitors, Post Office Box 369, Groton, Massachusetts, 01450. This service is available only to members of the society. Our birds are fed the same diet all year round. The only adjustment is the addition of more soft foods when they are feeding babies.