Concerns for new parrot and away time

[Warrior]

Hello,

I am expecting a hand-tame cockatiel sometime this week, he was meant to be ready for pickup two weeks ago but I guess a language miscommunication got in between. (I live abroad and do not yet speak the language).

But with this new tight schedule before the holidays I am concerned that my coming bird’s health will suffer from very little time to bond with me before I need to go away for a week for Christmas. Seeing as I will need to travel back home from my current abroad residence. I have arranged bird watchers to come and make sure he has some company during the time I am gone every now and then but I feel that it is still not enough, and that he might grow to hate me for leaving him like that so early.

Are my concerns valid, and does anyone have any suggestions for how to make this time away less painful for my bird?

[Casper's 2nd best friend]

Hello Elin and welcome to PP.
I don't think he will hate you as he will not have had enough time to get to properly know you before you leave. He may be a little confused by all the changes in his life but will be settling down into his new surroundings when you return. Have a relaxed Christmas break and start the bonding when you return.
If both you and the carer have Skype or facetime you could agree to chat with them and view the bird while you are away.

[Warrior]

Thank you!

That's a relief, and I had a similar idea myself to check in on my boy from time to time. I'm sure it will work out just fine then, and I'll be sure to introduce him on the site when he's settled in a bit.

[Dragonlady2]

Welcome to the forum! Casper’s 2nd best friend has given you a great answer. I find that parrots can be quite forgiving. I bet you will find that your new friend will adapt just fine. Slow and easy with him will give you good results.