Bird Behavioural Training

Bird Behavioural Training

When you take on the responsibility of owning a parrot, it is like adopting a child. This is especially true with the larger parrots. They are long lived and if their needs are fulfilled they will be with the family for a long time. Some parrots will outlive their owners and provision needs to be made for them in case of death.

Just like children, parrots grow and mature. They do not remain as cute hand-raised babies. They have the intelligence of 3-5 year old children and need to be treated in a similar way. As owners, it is our responsibility to make sure their nutritional needs are met. We also have to consider their environment. Is it safe? Most importantly, we need to consider their psychological needs. It is our responsibility to teach them manners and to socialise them well.

Birds are flock animals. They have an instinct to get to the ‘top of the pecking order’ as soon as possible. In the wild, the older, wiser birds in the flock teach them manners and socialise them and ‘keep them in their place.. In the family, the humans become their flock and it is our responsibility to teach them to fit into the family ‘pecking order’. Just as we have to teach our children their manners and discipline them, we need to do this with our parrots. A spoilt parrot who rules the roost is not happy and nor is the human family. Parrots that are untrained are demanding, destructive and noisy. To build a rewarding relationship with your bird you need to understand their psychological needs and work to fulfil these. You cannot use cruelty in bird training. You need to positively re-enforce acceptable behaviour and ignore unacceptable behaviour. You need patience and understanding.

Birds like a routine. Fit the training sessions in to suit your routine. It is usually best to train birds when you are relaxed and not stressed. Birds are experts at reading body language. They will pick up on any tension in you. Only continue for short periods of time. When the bird loses interest, give him time out. You must learn to give dominant signals to the bird. You must project confidence. This is especially true with handling the bird. Birds like to explore new things and people with their beak. Allow the birds to nibble your fist and gradually get him used to you stroking his beak.

The aim of training sessions is to teach your bird that you are the ‘older wiser bird’ and to teach him to fit in comfortably with his human flock. All members of the family must be consistent in their handling and training of the bird. A happy bird accepts other people and doesn’t become inappropriately bonded with one person. The aim of training is to create an independent bird rather than a co-dependent one.

One last thing to consider. Birds are flock animals and it is not natural for them to live alone. Birds will mature sexually and need an outlet for their sexuality. This is another reason for having a pair of birds rather than a single pet bird. Pairs of birds can interact with each other when the owners are away at work and don’t get lonely instead of having one loving and well-trained bird, you now have two.

Information supplied by (c) Currumbin Valley Vet Services August 2010

FAQs

Why is bird behavioural training important for parrots?

Bird behavioural training is essential for parrots as it helps them fit into the family ‘pecking order,’ teaches them manners, and socialises them. It ensures that both the parrot and the human family members are happy and comfortable with each other.

What is the aim of bird behavioural training?

The aim of bird behavioural training is to establish yourself as the ‘older, wiser bird’ and to teach your parrot to fit in comfortably with their human flock. Consistency in handling and training is crucial for all family members.

What kind of training approach should be used for parrots?

A positive reinforcement approach should be used for training parrots. Encourage acceptable behaviour and ignore unacceptable behaviour. Patience and understanding are key in this process.

How often should I train my parrot?

Birds like routine, so it is best to fit the training sessions into a consistent schedule. Train your bird when you are relaxed and not stressed. Keep the training sessions short and give your bird time out when they lose interest.

How do I find the best exotic vet near me to consult about bird behavioural training?

To find the best exotic vet near you, search online for reviews and recommendations, ask fellow bird owners or local pet stores, or consult bird-related forums and social media groups. It’s essential to choose a vet with experience in avian care to ensure the best advice and support for your parrot’s needs.

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4 Comments

  1. Hi there ! I was wondering if you guys do training sessions with parrots that I could bring my parrot too? Do you teach to free flight ?

  2. Hello! About three months ago I got my first bird after years of research. A female cockatiel named Atlas. I’ve had her for about three months now, she has tons of toys and a cage plenty big enough for a cockatoo, not to mention I always leave the door open. She used to enjoy sitting on top of the door and the perch outside her cage, but for the past few days she hasn’t come out at all. She doesn’t play with her toys. She’ll follow millet around the cage, but loses interest quickly. She won’t go off her main perch to get it. She’s plenty active, moving around her cage, getting food and water, taking baths in the water, preening… a lot. She lets me give her scritches sometimes and she’ll step up on my finger once she’s out of the cage usually. The stepping up thing is the biggest change I can think of, but lately… she keeps hissing at me and flipping upside down opening up her wings and being territorial and hissing just when I’m around the cage. This is so sudden. She didn’t used to do this? I’m always calm around her, talking to her all the time, giving her treats, etc. sometimes she seems so depressed. I wonder if I should get her a mate. I know it’ll hurt her bonding with me, but I want her to be happy! I don’t want her to just isolate herself! Apparently at the pet store she had a mate, but she suddenly started hating him too, going as far as to pluck his cheek feathers as well as her own. Maybe they just weren’t introduced right? Should I try getting her a mate? I wouldn’t want another bird getting hurt because of her either. I’m just not sure what to do. Please help.

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