Training help?

[kerryandherparrots]

I have a 1 1/2 year old Timneh Grey. At first, he really loved my mother. I would try bonding with him, but he wouldn't show any interest even if I offered treats. He would take the treats and eat them next to my mom. Being the sensitive person I am, my feeling were hurt. For 4 months I barely interacted with him. I would let him out if his cage daily, but I wouldnt talk to him, touch him or make any effort to train him. I would only pay attention to my green cheeked conure. I know, I am a horrible person for doing that, but I have realized that. Everyone makes mistakes. About 3 months ago, i decided I wanted to train him, bond with him and create an amazing relationship with him that will last a lifetime. Little did I know how difficult that would be, considering he can hold a grudge. I can't blame him, though. But for the past three months I have been trying to get him to at least go on my hand to step out of his cage. He wont even do that without lunging at my hand. Not going to lie, I am scared of him. It is something I will have to get over. But I need help with training. Anyone have a good system they used? Or any tips? A routine? Also if there are any treats you recommend for training, and any other supplies please tell me. I am really determined to create this bond, but so far, no luck. Please help!

 

[MrsKay]

First of all. You are forgiven. Don't quit on him again or bonding with him may never happen. I suggest resting your arm/hand just near or inside the cage, as close as you can get without him lunging. Give him (or leave) a treat nearby. Don't rush him. Allow him to see how slowly but deliberately you move. Eventually move your hand closer each time you do this. May take days or weeks. As soon as you can get as near as possible to him, use a short perch and let him get on that. Give a treat each time he gets on the perch. Eventually substitute your finger for the perch. And so on..... don't rush him. If you want him to bond with you and be your lifelong friend, then you have LOTS of time.
I'm sure others will have more ideas on this, but it worked for me with another bird years ago. Good luck

 

[Darci]

I am not an expert but with mine I just gave her time and let her come to me and learn at her own pace. for the last three weeks, she would only let me pick her up if she'd made her way to the floor but today she let me pick her up! But she let me give her kisses on the beak though, crazy bird!

I started by being really calm, and training her with her perch. She said "Shadow up" so I knew at one time she'd been trained, but the people who had her before me didn't take any time to train her and would only feed her to get her to come to them - not a sustainable way to build a bond, poor baby.

Once she trusted that I wouldn't drop her and that coming to me from off of her cage was safe then I moved to the hand. It is hard though, and I am also afraid of a bad bite but that's just life with a parrot. When she does do it, give her praise and treats and make a big deal of it. I tell mine I'm proud of her and give her lots of kisses but some respond better to food

No matter what you do, don't use gloves. I have heard those can cause really bad phobia of hands