Target Training
Parrots like to touch things with their beaks. You can use this natural behavior to teach them tricks or desired behaviors (like getting them into a travel cage to visit the vet). Training involves teaching your Parrot to touch a stick (like a chopstick) with their beak.
- Offer your Parrot a Kaytee treat to let them know you have delicious treats. Tip: Use the same hand consistently when offering treats.
- Use your other hand to slowly present the target stick from slightly below and in front of your Parrot.
- When your Parrot touches the tip of the stick, say "good" and offer them a treat.
- Repeat this several times.
- Begin presenting the target stick a few inches farther away from your Parrot. Let your Parrot move their body towards the stick and touch it. When they succeed, say "good" and offer a treat.
- Increase the distance your Parrot moves to touch the target.
Congratulations! Your Parrot has learned to target! You now have a way to easily guide your Parrot to desired destinations.
