Gone and not Forgotten? The Memory Retention of Lovebirds

[canarysanctuary]

Hi everyone,

It's been almost a year, but my little lovebird Elbie has finally warmed up to me. He flies over, gives kisses, snuggles in my sweater collar and rides around happily on my shoulder for long stretches of time.

My concern is this: I'll be going away for a two week vacation in a couple months, and I wonder if his affectionate behaviour will continue after I return? Will he "forget" about me?

I'd love to hear any of your stories, ideas or input. He'll be well looked after while I'm gone, but I really, really hope I can come home to a lovebird who's still as sweet as he is right now!

[summoora]

Based on some anecdotes from other threads in the forum, parrots have excellent memories. He may be ticked off at you for leaving for two weeks, but he won't "forget" you.
Also: If you work on making him sociable so that he can interact with other people as well for the next two months, the people taking care of him could theoretically keep him socialized for you.

[thebubbleking]

My birds know when my dad comes over and changes food and water i wont be home for a few days altho i limit my vacations to a week (to many work stuff to do to be gone to long) my birds remember me they also pout a little and give me grief the first day back but extra love and treats sets them stright lol so yes they rmember and no it wont set your relationship back.

[michael]

Not long ago, I rehomed an adopted lovebird for the sake of providing him what I had hoped was a better home. Contention was, if it proved unsuccessful, he would be returned back under my care. ... Well, after several months, he ended up coming back home. .. Did he forget anything? .. Not a chance! .. In fact, he is now more lovable than ever. .. Could it be because I missed him so much? . What can I say.........:blush:

[Enko_chan]

He won't forget. I'm usually here at home all the time, and I mean ALL THE TIME. I leave for about 2 hours twice a week, and aside from that I'm a permanent fixture. When I have planned leaving for trips, which doesn't happen often, I let the birds know I'm leaving- I think Koko understands general time period language, I don't know how well the other birds do, but still I do my best to give them a heads' up! They were fine with it when I was on vacation. When I've left for emergencies I've had some ruffled feathers but no one here has ever forgotten me (nor Chris) because of absence.

[canarysanctuary]

Thanks so much everyone! My bird loves me (sits on my shoulder, comes to my hand) but isn't as affectionate with others (though he will sit on other's shoulders).

I'm definitely feeling reassured!

[Pips mom]

My birds have always acted like they missed me when I've gone on vacation! I've never had a problem and they've appeared to be happy and well adjusted while I was away as well. They definitely do NOT forget you! Their little memories are amazing! Birds are smart little creatures and when it comes to someone or somebirdy who's part of their flock, I don't think they ever forget you!

[Z28Taxman]

I know they remember what time I'm supposed to be home from work. If I'm only 1/2 an hour late Ditto reads me the riot act! :omg: