Read About Bird Trick Training

Image Bird trick training starts with deciding on a few simple tricks you want your pet bird to perform. Be sure the commands are simple and specific. Always remember that, as with any training, positive reinforcement and consistency are critical components of bird trick training. Some popular bird tricks include teaching your bird to nod or turn around on his perch.

Before beginning bird trick training, start by choosing a good location for the training. Ideally, this should be an enclosed room that he is already familiar with, with minimal distractions. Be sure, of course, that the room is entirely safe for the bird. Close all windows and doors, if possible, and be sure the room is well-lit. It is usually best to conduct bird trick training away from the bird’s cage, so that he is not distracted by the cage.

When conducting bird trick training, always remember to keep the training sessions short and fun. Maintain an upbeat tone of voice, praise the bird frequently, and offer training rewards consistently. Begin by demonstrating the behavior you are looking for, while saying the command in a clear and friendly voice. Always use the same command, and say it in the same tone of voice. To teach your bird to nod his head, decide on a simple command, such as “Am I right?” and repeat it to the bird while offering a treat over his head, just out of his reach. Move your hand slowly downward, still slightly out of his reach, repeating the command. Image When your bird moves his head up and then down, following the movement of the treat, reward him by giving him the treat and plenty of praise. Continue doing this, gradually starting to move the treat a little further away from the bird. With time and patience, your bird will nod his head when you ask, “Am I right?”

To train your bird to turn around, hold a treat in front of the bird, out of his reach. Using a command, such as “Turn” or “Go around,” move around the bird, continuing to hold the treat in view. He will turn his head, but eventually will have to turn his body to continue to watch the treat. When he has turned 180 degrees from where he started, reward him with the treat and praise, and offer another treat, repeating the command, as you work with him to turn back to his original position. With practice, he will be able to turn all the way around without stopping in the middle.

Praise and training rewards should always be given after the desired behavior is performed, and should be used consistently during bird trick training. Giving your bird his training reward without delay helps to keep the connection between the specific behavior and the reward clear. Waiting until the bird has performed several different behaviors before offering bird training rewards can confuse the bird. Likewise, be consistent in the type and amount of reward offered during bird trick training. Changing the type or amount of bird training rewards given for a single type of behavior can be confusing to the bird.

Any behavior taught through bird trick training needs to be reinforced regularly. Practice with your bird each day, being sure to keep the bird trick training sessions short and fun. Be sure to be patient and consistent during your bird trick training; the rewards of a well-behaved bird are well worth it.