Meet Tinker and Max, a Bonded Pair Finding Their Way Together.
Tinker, a Moluccan Cockatoo, and Max, a Red Lored Amazon, spent their entire lives with the same family. When their owner passed away, both birds experienced an enormous life change and are now learning how to feel safe again in a new environment. Through all of this, they have remained deeply bonded to one another and draw clear comfort from being together. These two must be adopted as a pair.
Tinker is the softer, quieter presence. She can be fearful of new things and may hiss when she feels unsure, but once spoken to gently she readily steps up and shows her true personality. She is hand tame, comfortable around people, and genuinely sweet once she feels safe. Tinker prefers to sit on her perch and observe and enjoys being out on her playstand, though sometimes it takes a bit of encouragement. She is surprisingly quiet for a cockatoo (so far), with only occasional vocalizations, and will make flock calls at night if the lights are left on too late. Because of arthritis and a history of bumblefoot, special care should be taken with the perches offered, ensuring they are easier for her to grip. She does not enjoy bathing, but she is content as long as her routines are predictable and peaceful.
Max is more guarded and cautious, especially at first, and can come across as intimidating when he is unsure. With time, patience, and respect for his boundaries, he has begun to warm up. Max is likely hand tame and will step up on his terms, sometimes with the help of a perch. He does not enjoy hands all the time, but he has started to lower his head to ask for head scritches, which is a big milestone for him. He says "hello," makes quiet chirps when he is happy or excited, and uses a distinctive beeping sound when Tinker is out of his sight. He is very quiet and settled as long as he can see her.
Their bond is obvious and meaningful. Max likes to watch Tinker closely and often copies her behaviors. Tinker allows Max to preen the crest feathers she cannot reach herself, which clearly brings her comfort. Max enjoys misting from a spray bottle, while Tinker prefers to stay dry. They can both fly, though Tinker is not particularly skilled, and they do best with safe, thoughtful setups that allow them to move at their own pace.
Neither bird has shown much interest in toys yet, which is not unusual for birds adjusting after a major life change. Max is highly food motivated and loves almonds, which can be helpful for building trust. Both birds benefit from calm, predictable environments and people who understand that confidence takes time.
Tinker and Max are sensitive birds recovering from loss and learning what safety looks like again. They need an experienced, patient home that understands large-parrot behavior, respects boundaries, and values emotional security over hands-on interaction. In the right home, this gentle, bonded pair has the potential to continue building trust and stability together, just as they always have.
If you are looking to offer a peaceful home to two birds who clearly rely on each other, Tinker and Max may be waiting for you.
MAX
Amazon
🇺🇸
Ballwin, Missouri
male, medium, senior
Amazon
Ballwin, Missouri
