How to Train a Parakeet to Whistle

Parakeets are not profound talkers like many other parrots, but they do have the ability to mimic sounds. The key to teaching a parakeet to whistle is repetition; they enjoy making the sounds they commonly hear so repeated exposure to the desired sound is usually quite effective. Male parakeets are generally more adept at learning to imitate sounds. Young birds are easier to train, as they are still learning everything about the world and will attempt to communicate with humans more readily.

Things You'll Need

  • Parakeet food
  • Water
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Provide the parakeet with excellent care. Make sure it gets fresh food, water and attention each day. Also provide time outside the cage daily, as a happy parakeet is easier to train.

    • 2

      Spend time with the parakeet each day so that it learns to trust you.

    • 3

      Develop a daily routine so that the parakeet learns when to expect fresh food, playtime and training.

    • 4

      Hold training sessions early in the morning when the house is relatively quiet and the bird is well-rested.

    • 5

      Remove all mirrors and other distracting toys from the cage.

    • 6

      Make the whistling sound that you would like the parakeet to imitate. Repeat the sound again and again and offer vocal praise when the bird attempts to whistle, even if it doesn't get the sound exactly right. Spend approximately half an hour in training each day.