Trick Training Your Bird

Why Trick Training Matters

Trick training is not just party entertainment — it provides essential mental stimulation, strengthens your bond, and gives your bird a sense of accomplishment.

Getting Started

All you need is patience, a clicker (or a consistent verbal marker like "good"), and small, high-value treats. Training sessions should be short: 5–10 minutes maximum, 2–3 times daily.

Trick 1: Step Up

The foundation of all training. Present your finger or hand and say "step up." When the bird steps on, click and treat. This should be solid before moving to other tricks.

Trick 2: Wave

With the bird perched, present your finger as if asking for a step-up but pull away just as they lift their foot. Click and treat the foot raise. Add the cue "wave" once they are reliably lifting their foot.

Trick 3: Turn Around

Lure the bird in a circle with a treat held near their beak. As they follow the treat and complete the turn, click and treat. Gradually fade the lure to just a finger cue.

Trick 4: Shake Hands

Similar to wave but you gently take the lifted foot. Some birds pick this up naturally after learning wave.

Trick 5: Retrieve

Start by rewarding any interaction with a small ball. Gradually shape towards picking it up, carrying it, and dropping it in your hand.

Training Tips

Always end on a positive note. If the bird gets frustrated, go back to an easy trick they know well. Never force a training session.