What is a clicker?

[Buddy Boy]

What is a clicker, is it like a zapper or something???

[expressmailtome]

It is a device that you press to make a clicking noise. The click is from the metal. Example: Top Paw® Clicker - Training Aids - Training & Behavior - PetSmart

Matt

[jenseits]

LOL - no a clicker is not a zapper, quite the opposite. It's a device used to mark a positive behavior; as in: that thing you just did was good, you'll be getting a treat now.

Here's a bit more info on clicker training: Parrot Training Resources and FAQs Best in Flock - Parrot Blog

And some myths about how the clicker works:
Clicker Training Myths and Misconceptions Best in Flock - Parrot Blog

[sadisticotaku]

It's basically a tool originally used to train dogs. You can get them at petco for ~$2. You'll get lots of results if you google "dog clicker"

[Maegen Sue Persing]

I have had tremendous success so far using the clicker training with my new Sun Conure. In two days, I have him target trained. Very exciting stuff. He likes it, because its like a game to him. (I have owned him for 6 days).

[StevieSays]

Maegen, I have only had my Sun for a week now and I am very interested in starting some clicker training with him. How exactly did you start? What is he able to do so far? Thanks, and congrats!

[jenseits]

I highly recommend the Bird Click group on Yahoo for anyone interested in getting started with Clicker Training for their parrot: Bird-Click : Bird-Click Best bird clicker training resource out there, bar none.

Also check out the links in my siggie (especially the book review of Clicker Training for Birds).

p.s. Here are the videos of my sun conure and stuff he learned using clicker training: http://www.youtube.com/user/3ponymous

[OzzyBird81]

I'm a dog trainer. I primarily teach clicker training method in class. Clicker Training is actually a slang term for operant conditioning. A clicker is a mechanical device that makes a sharp, distinct "click" sound. The clicker doesn't tell your pet to do something. What it does do is mark the exact moment the desired behavior occurs.

You don't need to run out and buy a clicker to get started with clicker training. You can use a snapple cap, a pen, anything that makes that type of sharp sound.

This is a great FAQ website for Clicker Training: What Is Clicker Training? | Karen Pryor Clickertraining

And I love this book: Amazon.com: Clicker Training for Birds (Getting Started): Melinda Johnson: Books

Good Luck! Once you start clicking you won't want to stop!

Pam

[thedelboy]

I swear by "Chet Womacks" methods in training and the good thing is all his info is free!! I think he does take donations but am unsure as he has never asked me for anything . He is based in the states I am in England

[JenJenna]

I just want to add to this thread that it took me less than a day to have Disco targeting. After that, it took me less than a day to have her give me kisses on cue.

Unfortunately, I've been too busy singing and cuddling with her since then and haven't continued with the training, lol. I need to get back on it!