Parrots are smart and social animals that flourish when they receive plenty of mental stimulation. Teaching them tricks is not just for fun—it strengthens your bond, keeps them engaged, and encourages positive behavior. From simple gestures like waving to more interactive tricks like playing fetch, here are 10 easy tricks you can teach your parrot to make training both enjoyable and rewarding!
1. Waving
Waving is a simple and fun trick that makes your parrot appear friendly and social. To begin, ensure your parrot is comfortable perching on your hand or a stand. Say “wave!” while giving your finger as if for a step-up. When your parrot raises one foot to step up, gently move your finger away. The foot will stay in the air for a moment—this is the perfect time to give them a treat. Practice this several times in short training sessions. Over time, your parrot will link the word “wave!” to the action and begin lifting its foot on command.
2. Turn Around
Teaching your parrot to turn around is another easy trick that builds their responsiveness to commands. Start with your bird sitting comfortably & a treat in hand. Hold the treat slightly out of reach at eye level, then slowly move it in a circular motion behind the parrot while saying, “turn around!” Your bird will instinctively follow the treat with its head and rotate its body. Initially, reward them when they turn halfway, then gradually increase the rotation until they complete a full 360-degree turn.
3. Take a Bow
This trick is a variation of “Turn Around,” except instead of moving in a circle, your parrot will lower its head in a bowing motion. Start by holding a treat at eye level and slowly moving it downward toward the perch while saying, “Take a bow!” Your parrot will likely come after the treat using its beak, naturally bowing down. Reward them when they complete the motion. This trick is relatively easy for most parrots since it aligns with their natural behaviors, such as stretching or bowing in social interactions.
4. Play Dead
This trick is a fun way to show off your parrot’s ability to follow commands. It builds on the “step-up” command and requires trust between you and your bird. Start by placing your parrot on a flat surface. Offer your finger as if asking them to step up but position it slightly to the side instead of directly in front. As they grab your finger, gently guide them onto their back while saying “play dead” or “lie down.” Some parrots may resist at first, so be patient and reward even small attempts.
5. Fetch
Fetch is an excellent trick that encourages interaction and provides mental stimulation. Begin by choosing a small, lightweight object that’s safe for your parrot to hold. Offer the object and say “fetch” as they take it in their beak. Let them hold it for a few seconds before gently prompting them to drop it into your hand, saying “drop it” as they release it. Give them a treat and praise right away as a reward. Once they understand this step, place the object slightly away from them and encourage them to pick it up and bring it to you.
6. Sitting on Your Shoulder
Many parrot owners love having their feathered companion perch on their shoulders. However, it’s important to teach this behavior properly to ensure safety and control. Start by placing your parrot on your hand or arm, then slowly move them toward your shoulder while saying “up” or any chosen cue. Encourage them with a treat when they settle comfortably. Get started with brief sessions in a silent space to build confidence. Once they’re comfortable, introduce movement by walking a few steps while reassuring them.
7. Dancing
Dancing is one of the easiest and most enjoyable tricks to teach your parrot. Many parrots naturally bob their heads or move their feet when they hear music, so you can build on this instinct. Start by playing an upbeat song and moving your own body rhythmically. Clap your hands and nod your head to motivate your parrot to follow along. If they show any movement, praise them immediately and offer a treat. Some birds may need additional encouragement—try tapping their perch or showing them videos of other parrots dancing.
8. High-Five
High-fiving is an adorable trick that is similar to waving but involves your parrot touching your hand. To start, hold out your hand and say “high-five” while encouraging your bird to lift their foot. When they raise their foot, gently touch it with your hand and immediately reward them. Repeat this until they start lifting their foot automatically when they hear the command. Over time, you can refine the movement by ensuring they make contact with your hand rather than just lifting their foot. This trick strengthens your bond with your parrot and provides a fun way to engage with them.
9. Ring Toss
Instructing your pet bird to play ring toss is an impressive way to challenge their intelligence. You’ll need small rings and a peg or stick for them to place the rings on. Start by giving your parrot a ring and encouraging them to hold it in their beak. Say “drop it” and reward them when they release it near the peg. Gradually guide them to drop the ring closer to the peg until they learn to place it directly onto the stick. With practice, they’ll understand the full sequence and be able to complete the trick on command.
10. Opening a Tiny Drawer
This trick showcases your parrot’s problem-solving abilities. Start by using a small, lightweight drawer or a box with a sliding lid. Place a treat inside so your parrot can see it. Encourage them to explore the drawer by tapping on it and saying “open.” If they attempt to pull or push the drawer, reward them immediately. Some parrots may use their beak, while others might use their feet. Once they master this step, you can add variety by placing different small objects inside or using drawers with handles to make it more interactive.
Love Pets as Much as We Do?
Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!