Aviator harness

[Avianbrat]

I'm wanting to train my Meyers parrot to use a harness. As I'm going to sign him/ her as an emotional supply pet. And, would rather train to use the harness than carry him/ her ( haven't gotten DNA sexing back yet). He she is four months old, and the first time putting it on ended up in a disaster, clawing and biting at the harness, and excessive wing flapping. I've heard people just put them one and head outside for outdoor distractions, have worked for some people. But I don't want this traumatizing my bird, how have others trained their birds to wear one?

 

[YUMgrinder]

I tried getting a green cheek to wear one once and wasn't patient enough and he ended up hating it. I'm taking it slow with my cockatiel now and it's going much better. I both waited to bond with the bird, and let her see it and chew on it before strapping it on.

 

[BeatriceC]

Watch the video and follow the instructions. Some of them may seem silly, but if you do it the way he describes and only advance when your bird is comfortable, then it will work. Be prepared for it to take a couple weeks minimum before you can get the harness on your bird, though probably a little longer, because now you have to convince him that it's not bad after a scary experience. Like with anything involving parrots, it just takes time.

 

[Avianbrat]

Thanks for the replies. I now just have the harness on top of the cage which it's ok with. I had to do some sucking up with an Apple slice for forgiveness, so no harm done long term. Still enjoys coming out as much as she (I think) can. Guess jumping right to the harness wasn't a good idea.

 

[BeatriceC]

Forgiveness through fruit is a common theme among parrot owners.

 

[wrench13]

It can take weeks, even months, even many months. I been working with Salty on this for more then 8 months. He's a very smart parrot, who knows dozens of tricks, but he just does not like harness training. We are taking a break from it until spring really arrives, and I can reward him by going outside with it on. Patience, patience, and more patience.