@finchrocks215 Trick training (using positive reinforcement) is a great way to cut down on aggression quicker. There's no need to wait to start working with her. My sun conure used to bite me hard, but clicker training tamed him much more quickly.
Stewie learned this trick over a year and a half ago. I don't remember exactly how long it took for him to learn it ... maybe a couple of weeks (with two training sessions per week)? It took a while in part because we were both new to training and he was very aggressive, biting me every chance he got. He's come a very long way since then because we worked on tricks like this.
I have the Clicker training for Birds book. I'll have to see how I can train Sunshine, to leave my buttons and jewelry alone. The bites he does usually don't break the skin, but I'll have to try the "gentle" command.
I find that giving birds an alternative can be more effective than simply asking them NOT to do something. Rather than "don't play with this", give Sunshine the opportunity to "play with this other thing instead". Buttons and jewelry are sooooo tempting :) so maybe you need to give him some foot toys to distract him.
@finchrocks215 Trick training (using positive reinforcement) is a great way to cut down on aggression quicker. There's no need to wait to start working with her. My sun conure used to bite me hard, but clicker training tamed him much more quickly.
3ponymous 1 year ago
what a good birdie!!!!!!!!
mangolefty 2 years ago
How long have you been working on this trick with Stewie? I'll have to try that one with Sunshine. Are you using sunflower seeds for treats?
1996azcpa 2 years ago
Stewie learned this trick over a year and a half ago. I don't remember exactly how long it took for him to learn it ... maybe a couple of weeks (with two training sessions per week)? It took a while in part because we were both new to training and he was very aggressive, biting me every chance he got. He's come a very long way since then because we worked on tricks like this.
3ponymous 2 years ago
I have the Clicker training for Birds book. I'll have to see how I can train Sunshine, to leave my buttons and jewelry alone. The bites he does usually don't break the skin, but I'll have to try the "gentle" command.
1996azcpa 2 years ago
I find that giving birds an alternative can be more effective than simply asking them NOT to do something. Rather than "don't play with this", give Sunshine the opportunity to "play with this other thing instead". Buttons and jewelry are sooooo tempting :) so maybe you need to give him some foot toys to distract him.
3ponymous 2 years ago
My human friend is trying to teach me to get the remote control.
Botheparrot 2 years ago
Be sure to remove all the buttons before you give it back, Bo.
3ponymous 2 years ago