Target Training Books?

[BarkleyLoves]

I posted under the Q & A about Pepper's behavior, and it was suggested I try target training, and I think this might be a viable option for us. I was just wondering if there were any books or online material that is reliable about this kind of training. Sorry if this is a cross-post. Thank you.

 

[lene1949]

Have a look at this site

| Karen Pryor Clickertraining

 

[triordan]

I have Robin Deutsch's book- The click that does the trick

 

[Harrybasford]

Id try clicker training as opposed to target training. Target training is usually the last option (if bird is unruly, biting, attacking)
If you give me your email address I could send you a REALLY good ebook I have found on it.

 

[lene1949]

Target training, using a clicker, is the best way to train any animal... The clicker can be anything from 'good', click, whistle etc...

 

[Harrybasford]

Dogs and cats are not as intelligent as Parrots, the target stick can be used but is unnecessary with them to (clicker is enough.) With parrots, animals with higher intelligence, you can target train but it is usually used on a badly socialised bird to get it out of its cage, or to start doing things for treats with the safety of it being in its cage. It is not as effective in advanced training. If you want it to turn round,quite an easy trick, use your hand with the treat at the very beginning to coax the behaviour you want. They catch on very quickly. For some tricks you dont even need a clicker. Your praise and a reward is enough (You have to be praising when clicking before also.)

 

[MonicaMc]

Target training can be used in advanced tricks as well - such as teaching a bird to touch an object on cue, walk/fly somewhere on cue, etc. It can even be used to teach birds how to play with toys they are afraid of (even if the bird is completely tame), teach them to go back to their cage... with birds who are cage aggressive when it comes to toys/food (but not aggressive when out of the cage), you can teach the bird to target then to station so that you can easily, and safely, change out the dishes.

Karen Pryor, Melinda Johnson, Susan Friedman and Barbara Heidnreich all have great articles and media. Melinda Johnson (via Karen Pryor's website posted by Lene) has a great clicker training book and Barbara Heidrenreich has great videos. Barbara doesn't use a clicker, but the videos themselves are great visuals on how you should be teaching parrots, and she has a great video no parrot behaviors as well.