Training Advice

[BirdieDad]

Does anyone have any advice on how to train my Scarlet (2 years old) to only fly to my hand? She flies to my hand whenever I hold it out, but she also loves to fly unannounced to my shoulders or back and nip ears/necks/cheeks, usually when she wants to play or when she wants your food. I tried shaking my shoulders and saying firmly, "No shoulders", and rewarding flights to the hand with treats and the like. However, she now thinks that is a new game and holds onto my shirt while making noises that sound like laughter while I shake my shoulders. It is like a Mac rodeo of sorts. Any advice? Thank you.....she also likes to sleep in my hand but that is okay with me...lol

 

[SailBoat]

Continue to assure a strong bond relationship.

One of the dangers of training is rewarding activities that we do not want. You're guess that she sees your shaking as a game is highly likely.

As you continue to reward a step-up response, add stepping-off your shoulder. The goal now is to take her to a perch or other near by perching place and work on Step-off and Stay training. Although it is not directed to stopping her choosing to fly to you because she wants to. It is designed to add control from a distance with does support your want.

Always remember that 'unintended' training is real and you need to take care not to support unwanted behavior by accident.

 

[BirdieDad]

Thank you. I will start trying that, initially I feared that I would train her to fly to my shoulder just to step down and get the treat. Perhaps I was looking at it wrong and should see it as a first step to step off and stay.