This is the global community for free-flight parrot enthusiasts — whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced flyer logging regular sessions. Here’s how to get started: 1. Introduce yourself: Comment below with: - Your bird’s species and name - Your location (city/country is enough) - Your #1 question about free-flight 2. Check the pinned posts: - Safety Checklist (must-read before outdoor flights)https://www.skool.com/the-flight-crew-9880/free-flight-safety-checklist-read-before-flying?p=efaf7a79 - Flight Log Template (for sharing and learning)https://www.skool.com/the-flight-crew-9880/flight-log-template?p=fc6f301f - Lost & Found Template (for emergencies)https://www.skool.com/the-flight-crew-9880/lost-found-template?p=767917c2 3. Follow the community rules: - Always put safety first - Be respectful and positive - Stay on-topic 4. Join the conversation Ask questions, share wins, and post your flight logs. Rule of thumb: safety first, respect always. We’re here to help each other fly further, safer, and smarter. The sky is not the limit — it’s just the beginning. — Steven

Bigbie is my 5 year old free flight trained harlaquin macaw. This was when he was 2 years old .

If your bird is lost or sighted, please copy → paste → fill in this template when you post. It gives the community the best chance of helping quickly. Species + Name: Last Seen (time & exact location): Tracker Used (GPS/Radio/None): Do / Don’t Approach Notes: (e.g. “Very shy, don’t chase”) Owner Contact: (phone/email/DM preferred) Photo (if possible): Tips for urgent cases: - Post immediately — don’t wait to “look more.” - Stay calm, keep a safe spot with familiar perch/crate ready. - Use high-value food and familiar calls/whistles. - Check the last GPS ping if using a tracker. - Keep updates in the same thread so helpers see the full story. - Once resolved, edit your title with [RESOLVED]. Why this matters: In a lost bird emergency, clarity saves time. The faster we have full details, the faster nearby members can help.

Harnesses can be a safe stepping stone between indoor recall and true free-flight. Not every bird will take to it, but for many, it’s the perfect compromise. The 3Ts to Remember: - Tiny Steps → Break it down, never rush. - Time → Sessions should be short and end positive. - Trust → Your bird decides the pace. Step-by-Step Training: 1. Desensitise → Place the harness near the cage or play area so your bird sees it daily. Reward curiosity. 2. Touch & Treat → Let your bird touch or beak the harness, reward instantly. 3. Over the Head → Practice slipping the loop over the head briefly, treat, remove. 4. Wings In → Slowly guide wings through loops one at a time, reward. 5. Short Wear → Let the bird wear it briefly indoors, increase duration over days/weeks. 6. Indoor Sessions → Encourage recall and flight with the harness on. 7. First Outdoor Exposure → Just sit outside with the harness on — don’t fly yet. 8. Controlled Outdoor Flight → Start with leash extension or flight line for semi-free-flight. Build confidence gradually. Recommended Harness Gear: - Aviator Leash Extension → For safe extra range. - Aviator Flight Line → Semi-free-flight practice outdoors. - Trainer’s Pouch → Hands-free, fast rewards. - Easy Perch Holder → Portable outdoor “home base.” Tip: You don’t need them all. Start with just the harness — add gear if you want more freedom or convenience later. Resources Barbara Heidenreich’s Harness Training Video Barbara’s Blog on Harness Training Get the Aviator Harness Here Remember: Harnesses aren’t for every bird — and that’s okay. If yours doesn’t take to it, there are other safe ways to train for outdoor confidence.

Use this template every time you share a flight log. It keeps things consistent and makes it easy to learn from each other. Copy → Paste → Fill in your details: Species/Age: Location & Weather: (include wind speed, temperature, visibility) Duration / Altitude: (approx flight time, height) Recall %: (e.g. 8/10 recalls successful) GPS Screenshot (if used): Behaviours Observed: (loops, perching, check-ins, distractions) Lesson Learned: Next Adjustment: Tips for posting logs: - Keep them brief but clear — bullet points are fine. - Add a photo or short video if possible (helps others see context). - Be honest: near misses and mistakes help everyone learn. - Edit your post later with updates (improved recall %, different weather, etc). Why this matters: Flight logs aren’t just a diary. They build a global record of safe practices for free-flight parrots. Beginners learn, veterans stay sharp, and the whole flock benefits.