In the world of umbrella cockatoos, personal space is a delicate and deeply respected concept unless, of course, you’re Dad.

Julius, our resident feathered troublemaker, has made it abundantly clear that he is a bird of refined tastes. He enjoys his freedom, his toys, and most importantly his autonomy. However, Dad seems to have a different interpretation of their relationship, one that involves unsolicited snuggles, much to Julius’s absolute horror. It usually starts innocently enough. Dad approaches, arms outstretched, cooing in that unmistakable “I’m about to smother you with love” tone. Julius, sensing the incoming affection ambush, fluffs up in protest. A subtle sidestep turns into a full-scale escape mission as he scrambles to the nearest high ground—be it the top of his cage, a curtain rod, or, if he’s feeling particularly dramatic, Dad’s own shoulder (which he will then immediately abandon, because ew).

But Dad is persistent. A gentle scoop, a cradling motion, and before Julius can execute his tactical retreat, he finds himself trapped in a warm, well-meaning, but utterly offensive cuddle. His crest flattens. His eyes flash the unmistakable look of betrayal. He emits the resigned sigh of a bird who knows he has lost this battle, but not the war. Eventually, after much fidgeting, squawking, and what can only be described as “angry purring,” Julius wiggles free and makes his dramatic getaway no doubt grumbling about the indignity of it all. He then spends the next ten minutes indignantly preening his feathers, as if to rid himself of any lingering traces of Dad’s affection.

Will Dad learn his lesson? Probably not. Will Julius continue to act like he is the most oppressed cockatoo on the planet every time he’s snuggled? Absolutely.

And so the battle continues....