is it possible?

[birdylady]

you know the saying you cannot teach an old dog new tricks, does this apply to macaws too?
I have recently acquired a beautiful B>G he is 15 I want to take him out and about with me I have had macaws before from babies and I taught them very young. is it possible to teach an older bird I do not want to spook him he is very tame and cuddly

 

[Birdman666]

Birds are life long learners. And 15 is still very young.

I've done behavior mods with birds in their 30's and 40's... and it works just fine. If you can break it down into steps and show it to them, they will learn it.

And BIG MACS in particular, if you make it into a game... they'll eat up the training. Won't be able to get enough of it. Especially if there is attention and treats involved.

My macs are more attention oriented, and play oriented, than food oriented.

And out and about, they get even more attention... so that's a win, win for them.

 

[birdylady]

thank you for the advice I will take it easy with him he has another problem though he only has one eye I will try making it a game with treats I am sure once he realizes the harness means a trip out he will be ok. it is reassuring I have plenty of time