Avian Behavior Consultant
In Michelle's words:
The Polite Parrot was established in 1996 after 12 years of working with birds. My experience has mostly been hands on working with unwanted, abused and behaviorally challenged birds. My philosophy is to use positive reinforcement along with anticipation and redirection of unwanted behaviors. In no way do I ever recommend doing something that will break the bond of trust between you and your avian companion.
I worked for Green Trails Animal Clinic which is a small animal and exotic vet for 8 years as a Veterinary Assistant and Office Manager, 15 years in affiliation with Narnia Pet Behavior in Naperville, IL and have 21 years hands on experience with parrots doing rehabilitation for feather destruction, screaming, biting, phobia, and mutilation. Many years experience working with all animal behavior including dog, cat, pig, iguana, and rabbit behavior, along with a two year psychology minor. Behavior consulting is offered at my home here in Morris, IL., and I also offer in your home consulting and basic behavior training courses at Windy City Parrot. I feel that my love for birds that I have had all my life has inspired me to this profession. I truly enjoy my job and have met many wonderful people and their avian companions. My goal in life is to educate and help people with companion parrots.
I am currently owned by five Congo African Greys, two Umbrella Cockatoos, two Blue and Gold Macaws, one Cockatiel, one African Meyers, one Mustache Parakeet, three dogs, two cats, one rabbit, and an iguana. All of my birds were rescues. Some were abused, some had behavior issues that their owners could not deal with, and some unfortunately did not fit into their owner's life anymore. All of my animals co-habitat in harmoney. I did rescue for many years where I rehabilitated and adopted out many birds who would have otherwise lived a life of sadness, choosing to keep the parrots with the worst issues. In addition to behavior consulting I offer gentle grooming, diet conversion, behavior video, educational lectures, parrot training courses, and published work in Birds USA. I hope you enjoy my website and find it informative. If you feel there is something I have forgotten please feel free to contact me.Michelle’s motto is:
R- REDIRECTION NOT REACTION
E- EXERCISE
S- SLEEP
P- PATIENCE
E- ENTERTAINMENT (TOYS)
C- CONSISTENCY WITH TRAINING
T- TRUST
Published work: Birds USA, 2004/2005
Video: Positive Parrot Behavior: Volume 1, “The Importance of Toys”
