Target Training Progress Question

[Kokopan]

So I recently started target training my bird in its cage since it's still not really tamed but he doesn't move much. He likes millet so I give him that after he touches the tip of the stick. He only touches the stick when it's right in front of him, below, or a little bit over. I did it many times so he should get the point now but when I put the stick just a bit furthur so he has to take at least a step, he won't do it... Is he just being lazy? On the tutorials I saw, the birds chase after the stick but my budgie doesn't budge..

 

[Featheredsamurai]

How often are the sessions you are training him for? And is he hungry when your training?

Try taking his food out at night, and about 30 minutes after the sun has risen, or after he has awoken start some touch training. Keep the session short, about 3-7 minutes. When completed put in his fresh food for the day.

If he doesn't go to the stick, even to take just one step put the stick away and leave him alone for 5-15 minutes. The go back and try again, if he doesn't take just one step and you move the stick closer for him to touch he's not being lazy, he's being smart because he's trained you! Pretty impressive

 

[Kokopan]

Oh I see! Thank you for replying! I have school so I can only work with him after school. Ok next time he doesn't reach for it I will just move the stick away and give him a break! Its been only 2 days so I will work with him harder.

 

[kalypso123]

My cockatiel caught on pretty quick. Kalypso still is being stuborn and turning around is not really working but I am still trying!

 

[Kokopan]

That's great!! I found that timing is important too. When my bird was kind of playful he really went after the stick!

 

[JoeR]

They all make progress at their own rate. Some pick up right away. Some take a while to get started though. A few might never get it, for a variety of reasons. I think the hardest part is getting started....so that the bird figures out what training is. It gets easier after that.
Joe