Taming Questions

[KiwiAndGuava]

Hi, I've just joined! yay :)

I have two lovies, Kiwi and Guava, both peachface and I've had them for about 5 months. I have a couple of questions about their taming etc.

When I got my birds, they were untamed and I have managed to get them comfortable to step up and become not scared of me and others. But I have just figured out that instead of using positive reinforcement, I have been using bribery. The problem is that the only treat they seem to be motivated by is their seed mix (don't worry, only for treats). The seeds are tiny and I have to give it to them in a little scoopy thing. They don't like millet :omg: I have tried others but they aren't too keen to try them either. Any ideas? Should I also consider target/clicker training and should I separate them when training?

Another thing I have noticed is that they don't really play with their toys that much. They nibble and chew on them but they won't touch hard toys and they aren't fussed about ringing bells and things like that. I thought lovebirds were very playful but mine don't seem to be.

Sorry for the long post but google doesn't have answers and I don't think the internet has heard of a bird who doesn't like millet :rotfl Any replies will be appreciated :)

[linda040899]

Bribery will get you everything, which is essentially what treats are! Go for it! The ones they aren't sure about they may not recognize as edible because they have no experience with them. If you like fresh veggies, try eating a piece yourself and then offering one to them that looks just like it. Keep trying. Eventually, one of them will just have to see what you keep trying to give to them. I prefer training together because lovebirds are very social Get one to do something and you have peat/repeat.

They may not know how to play with toys because they didn't have any prior to coming to live with you. Start with simple things and you gently play with them. If it looks like fun, it won't take long!

[KiwiAndGuava]

Thank you for the reply! Bribery is working pretty well at the moment but the problem is by using this method they don't stay on my finger, they fly off after their treat and the step up ladder is very difficult because the other one will come in and pinch a mouthful. It's usually Guava haha. But I definitely agree about not separating them, it would break their heart. I think what I could do is possibly find a bigger treat that they like and try what you suggested. That way I could keep it in my pocket or something.
I have one more question. When they become super tame, will I need treats to get them to step up and come to me or will they do it because they like me?

[akki]

When they become super tame, will I need treats to get them to step up and come to me or will they do it because they like me?

That's a million dollar question :D they kind of like humans, but we are their slaves and we are often being treated as such. I admitted it, embraced it and loving it :D. Give her as much treats as she likes :)

Now on a serious note, a relationship with a bird is totally different than with a dog or a cat. A dog will love you unconditionally and will think you are the most adorable human being on earth. A cat will do what he pleases, but will kind of like you, although sometimes will tell you that you are a bit lame. A parrot will always try to be your boss and the best deal you can get is being equal partners.

[KiwiAndGuava]

haha thanks for that! That's what I had kind of discovered but some videos on youtube I have seen show otherwise...movie magic? :D Thank you for replying, I really appreciate it :)

[Maxie]

That's a million dollar question :D they kind of like humans, but we are their slaves and we are often being treated as such. I admitted it, embraced it and loving it :D. Give her as much treats as she likes :)

Now on a serious note, a relationship with a bird is totally different than with a dog or a cat. A dog will love you unconditionally and will think you are the most adorable human being on earth. A cat will do what he pleases, but will kind of like you, although sometimes will tell you that you are a bit lame. A parrot will always try to be your boss and the best deal you can get is being equal partners.

Soooooo true! Lol

[mstomcat65]

i have a super tame peachface... she came to me at 4 months old and was handfed so that probably helped the taming process for me....she wouldn't let me touch her the first 2 or so months after i got her. i don't need treats to lure her to me now. she is a velcro bird and keeping her off of me is the problem if you wanna call it a problem lol.

[KiwiAndGuava]

awww I hope my birds will be like that one day :)