Parrot Training and Behaviour: A Complete Guide

Preface

Parrots are one of the most intelligent and fascinating birds in the world. Known for their vibrant feathers, playful nature, and ability to mimic human speech, they make excellent companions when cared for properly. However, parrots also require patience, training, and understanding of their unique behavior.

In this blog, we will explore everything about parrot training and behaviour—from understanding their psychology to step-by-step training tips that can help you build a strong bond with your feathered friend.

1. Understanding Parrot Psychology

Before training a parrot, it is important to understand how they think and behave. Parrots are social creatures that thrive on attention and interaction. They are highly intelligent, similar to a 3–5-year-old child, and require mental stimulation.

Natural instincts: In the wild, parrots live in flocks, communicate constantly, and rely on problem-solving for survival.

Social bonding: Your parrot will see you as part of its flock and will expect interaction daily.

Attention seeking: If ignored, parrots can develop negative behaviors like screaming or feather plucking.

👉 Key Tip: Spend at least 1–2 hours daily interacting with your parrot to keep them mentally and emotionally balanced.

2. Common Parrot Behaviours Explained

Parrots express themselves in unique ways. Recognizing these signals can help you understand their mood and needs.

Beak grinding: Sign of relaxation and comfort.

Fluffing feathers: Could mean contentment, but constant fluffing may indicate illness.

Screaming: A way of seeking attention or expressing boredom.

Head bobbing: Playful gesture, often shown by young parrots.

Mimicking sounds: Parrots mimic words, whistles, and sounds as part of bonding and entertainment.

👉 Understanding these behaviors is the foundation of good training.

3. Preparing for Training

Before you start training your parrot, ensure these things:

Safe environment: Remove distractions and hazards during training.

Healthy diet: A parrot’s brain functions best with a balanced diet of pellets, fruits, and vegetables.

Trust building: Spend time talking softly, feeding treats by hand, and sitting near the parrot’s cage to build trust.

Short sessions: Keep training sessions 10–15 minutes long to avoid stress.

4. Basic Training Techniques

Here are some fundamental techniques to start with:

a) Step-Up Command

Hold your finger or perch near the parrot’s chest.

Gently press and say “Step up.”

Reward immediately with a treat.

Repeat daily until your parrot naturally steps up.

b) Recall Training

Call your parrot’s name while holding a treat.

When it flies or walks to you, reward with praise or food.

This strengthens bonding and safety.

c) Speech Training

Start with simple words like “Hello” or the parrot’s name.

Repeat the word clearly every day.

Reward attempts with treats or affection.

Be patient—some parrots take weeks, others months.

d) Potty Training

Observe where and when your parrot usually relieves itself.

Take the bird to a designated spot (like a perch with paper).

Use a cue word like “Go potty.”

Reward successful attempts.

5. Advanced Training Tricks

Once your parrot masters basics, you can try fun tricks:

Waving: Gently lift the parrot’s foot while saying “Wave.” Reward immediately.

Turn Around: Use a treat to guide the parrot in a circle and say “Turn around.”

Target Training: Use a stick as a target for the parrot to follow, which can be useful for moving them without touching.

Fetch: Offer a small object and encourage the parrot to pick and drop it into your hand.

6. Positive Reinforcement

Parrots respond best to positive reinforcement, not punishment.

Always reward desired behavior with treats, praise, or head scratches.

Never shout or hit a parrot—it will break trust and worsen behavior.

Ignore unwanted actions like screaming, instead reward calmness.

7. Solving Common Behavioural Problems

a) Screaming

Don’t respond to every scream.

Reward quiet moments.

Keep the bird mentally active with toys and puzzles.

b) Biting

Learn triggers (fear, jealousy, overstimulation).

Avoid sudden movements.

Train with step-up commands and respect personal space.

c) Feather Plucking

Usually caused by stress, boredom, or health issues.

Increase playtime and provide chewing toys.

Consult a vet if it continues.

8. Mental and Physical Stimulation

Parrots need activities to stay happy:

Toys: Rotate toys weekly to avoid boredom.

Foraging games: Hide treats in paper balls or puzzle feeders.

Flight time: Allow safe indoor or outdoor flight with supervision.

Music and interaction: Many parrots enjoy dancing and singing with owners.

9. Building a Strong Bond

Trust and love are the foundation of training.

Spend time every day talking and playing.

Respect boundaries if your parrot seems tired.

Hand-feed occasionally to strengthen bonding.

Include your parrot in family activities to reduce loneliness.

10. Final Thoughts

Parrot training is not just about teaching tricks—it’s about building a lifelong bond of trust and companionship. By understanding parrot behavior, using positive reinforcement, and providing daily mental stimulation, you can raise a happy, well-adjusted parrot that thrives in your home.

Remember: Patience, consistency, and love are the keys to successful parrot training.