Parrot Tricks – Patience is a Virtue

Did you know that a parrot has the same intelligence as a small child? It’s been tested and it’s true! These birds are both friendly and smart and one of the joys of being a parrot owner is teaching your parrot tricks. There are many types of tricks you can teach your parrot ranging from simple tricks that make him better behaved and sociable to fun tricks to entertain your friends and family.

Remember that if a parrot is like a small child, it has the same attention span as one. Keep your training sessions short and sweet. If the bird becomes tired, it will begin to view training as negative and will not want to be trained again. Pick a quiet room where the bird feels comfortable and block out all distractions. Be calm and patient and your positive energy will affect the bird.

A very useful and easy trick is “step up.” There are many time when you will want your parrot to step on your finger, arm, or a branch. Put the object in front of the parrot’s feet and say “Step up” in a clear and calm voice. If the bird is hesitant, use food as a motivator. When the parrot steps onto the object, give him a piece of food to reward his good work.

“Turn Around” is another trick that people often teach parrots. For this trick, the parrot must be standing on his perch. Take a piece of food and slowly move it around the parrot’s head so he must turn around to get it. In a clear and calm voice, say “Turn Around.” Once he turns completely around, give him his reward.

Like some small children, many birds have learned that screeching gets them attention. If you teach your parrot to speak, this gives him a better (and quieter) way to get the attention he craves. Start with an easy word like “Hello” or short phrase like “Pretty Bird.” Repeat the word slowly and frequently. When the bird responds to the word, give it a treat, even if it doesn’t say the actual word. With patience and perseverance, your parrot will begin to mimic your words.

Parrots can learn a variety of tricks with owners that are patient enough to teach them. Remember to use short training sessions, keep it fun and lighthearted, and reward your bird for his progress.You have decades with your feathery friend, so there is plenty of time to teach your parrot all types of tricks.