Quote:
Originally Posted by SDavid
dancelady, I'm no expert but I think that before you can begin to train a bird it has to be tame. I mean it should not be afraid of you and should come to you and allow you to touch it without a problem. I think you should start with the taming process first. Your birds need to be relaxed around you or else they'll never focus on learning tricks. Instead they'll keep trying to get away from you.
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Nope. This is a common and understandable misconception. The really cool thing about training is that the training
itself helps you tame the birds. Training helps you start communicating and building trust. You don't have to be able to touch them to get started.
Training teaches them quickly that you are the source of good things, and that they can easily manipulate you into giving them treats.
("You want me to walk over here? And then I get a treat? Sweet!" "Hey look, all I have to do is touch this and she gives me treats, what a sucker!")
Your best bet, dancelady, is to join the group (you have to fill out the box explaining why you want to join, then you'll get an intro email telling you how to get started in the group). You'll get lots of support, advice and step by step instructions there -- that's a better forum for your questions. Or try her book (also).