Any advice on training?

[littleuglything]

Does anyone have any advice on how to train lovebirds, I have not had mine for very long, they are becoming more and more tamed by the day! They love to sit on my shoulder and just recently have decided that they like to sit on top of my head!! I really don't want to encourage this! I don't mind poop on my clothes but really dont have them pooping on top of my head!!!
How do i discourage this or train them not to do it? Also it ok for them to grind their beaks? When they sit on my shoulder and i can hear one of them griding it's little beak away...is this normal?

One last thing can any one recommend any good books on keeping and training lovebirds?
Many thanks in adavance! xxxxx
And a very HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!!

[Eliza]

Vera Appleyards "The Lovebird Handbook" is probably the best book out there. She also has her own website: Parrots Senegals Amazons Lovebirds at Parrot Parrot.

Beak grinding is usually a sign of contentment, so take that as a good thing :)

I've never tried to potty train a parrot. The smaller the parrot, the more frequently they go. Here is an article that might be helpful: Winged Wisdom Pet Bird Magazine - The ABC's of Potty Training

I didn't allow Beetle on my head b/c once he was up there, he didn't like to leave. It's easier to teach them to stay on your shoulder or better yet, your arm. That way you can see what they are up to ;)

Check out Tico the lovebird on YouTube: YouTube - Lovebird Tricks/bird training/SMART PARROT!!!

[bookworm0550]

well, you're doing something right if they are becoming more tame each day :) I love beak grinding. It means they're happy and secure. My birds always do that. I know about the whole head thing. Mine like to sit on my head. I don't mind it cuz they just sit there and preen my hairs. I don't care too much if they poop on my head or not.

I don't know any books on lovebirds specifically. I learn everything online. I do like parrots for dummies as a general bird book to read.

your birds sound like they love you :) congrats

[expressmailtome]

If you want to train your lovebird try clicker training. As for a treat/reward sunflower seeds are ok but fattening. I would take a millet stick and let the bird take a bite after the click. They don't get a lot this way, but the millet is healthier, they love it and it does not fill them as fast (this way you can do more training).

Matt