Exotic Pets: Bird Intelligence

Training Birds

The parrot - the bird is much more intelligent than many people suspected; numerous tests have recently been conducted to prove just that. These tests have also proven many birds are capable of communication, not just imitation. It is up to us to provide the tools to develop these abilities. Training your pet bird, developing bird intelligence, teaching your bird to talk also falls under the ever so important socialization.

Providing your bird with social interaction, activities, and play stimuli lead to a mentally healthy and happy bird. When a bird is not satisfied, they can develop unacceptable behaviors such as constant squawking. Some squawking is normal bird behavior. Unhappy and unhealthy birds may also resort to feather plucking, often because of boredom.

There should be no reason why your bird should have behavioral problems as long as they have enough socialization, are physically and mentally healthy, have plenty of time to spend outside of their cage, toys to engage their intellect, and toys that reduce stress.

Your birds don't need the anxiety of angry human drama. Keep arguments away from your birds. They can pick up on your emotions very easily, and it causes distress. Distress lowers the immune system, and you could ultimately end up with a very sick and unhappy bird.

If you are providing all these things, and they display behaviors such as feather plucking or constant squawking, it is time for a complete physical by an avian veterinarian.

If our human kids had nothing but educational toys they would become unhappy just as a parrot would. They need diversity and also something to help with over anxiousness. My birds will spend hours fiddling with blocks, pulling at the strings, and working at knots. These types of toys are some of the best for stress reduction.

Working with, instead of against your bird's natural instincts will go a long way to having a happy parrot. Birds spend a great deal of time working at seeds and nuts, trying to figure out the ultimate puzzle of obtaining their prize.

Look for toys that are non-toxic, with sturdy construction. Many of these toys are a puzzle with a nut or other goodie hidden inside. They have to go through quite of a bit of trial and error, to get at the treat inside the toy. Pick toys suitable for your bird's size and species.

You can also develop their skills and provide socialization by talking to them. Also, parrots love music and sound. Play music and movie DVDs. There will be times when your parrot is alone; it will help them pass the time until you come home. Refrain from loud music and heavy bass.

To allow your bird's intelligence to fully develop they need to use deduction, reason, and observation. They need a wide diversity of activities to keep them motivated. They need a variety of toys to play with, so rotate the toys frequently. Most importantly, they need frequent interaction with their owners and plenty of love.

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