Spike, our very first cockatiel, was adopted in November 2004. He came from Decatur, Indiana, his former “family” got him from Pet Land in Fort Wayne.

He was so scared and timid when we brought him home. We believe that he was abused and picked on by someone in the home. The former owner told us her children picked on him and tortured him, pulling feathers and other things.

All we know is he does not like men at all. My husband, especially. He does not like my dad either. He is a one person bird. That person being yours truly.

It took us a long time for him to trust us. But once his wings were trimmed, he did quite well.

Spike is a good talker. He can say plenty of words! I think he thinks he can carry on a conversation with anyone or anything!

He can say the following phrases:

A drink of Cherry Coke

Drinky, drinky, drinky

Yeah, Spikes a good boy

He’s a good boy

Whatcha doing?

Huh?

What?

Cheese Burger

Shut up

Mamma! Mamma! (which he screams when I leave the room)

He loved to blow kisses, knocks on the table if you knock first, clicks, laughs,

And even eats ice out of my mouth. His favorite food, is green beans and Fruit Loops.

In September 2005, Spike became a special needs bird, when he lost one of his eyes. It was a long road back to recovery, and he nearly died. We hand fed and watered him, which he DID NOT appreciate. It was not very long before he was back to his old self.

Spike does not like Toby or Paisley at all. He barely tolerates him. Toby is totally in love with him, but Spike is totally in love with his perch if you know what I mean!