Alexandrian Parrot Training

Nearly 2 feet in length, although the Alexandrine parakeet might resemble a parrot, it is technically a parakeet. Called either Alexandrian or Alexandrine, these birds are extremely popular as pets, and with their green coloring, offset by spots of red and blue, they are colorful additions to a home. As with many domesticated birds, they can be trained, but it requires patience and persistence.

  1. Beginning

    • The earlier an Alexandrine is worked with, the more likely it is that it will respond positively to training. When it is being fed formula, it should be spoken to in a quiet, relaxed manner. This allows the bird to relax and fosters an environment of bonding and companionship. Even when the bird is not talking or attempting to talk, it is taking everything in and processing it.

    Association

    • Like most birds, Alexandrines respond best to association. If the phrase "Yum--treat" is to be taught, the bird should be fed a treat, while the phrase is being said. By doing this, the Alexandrine will actually be able to make the connection between the phrase and the result.

    Talking

    • Alexandrines will never be the prolific talkers that the African gray parrots are, but they are capable of speaking in a clear, intelligible voice. The best way to get speech patterns set in place are to speak to them constantly. The Alexandrine should be taught away from its cage and when there are no other distractions in the room. When it is spoken to, there should be excitement and pleasure in the words being spoken. This allows the bird to form associations within the phrase and the response, thereby making it an enjoyable experience for both bird and owner.

    Patience

    • The key to training an Alexandrine parakeet is patience. These birds are very shy, as a rule, and it takes time for their trust to be gained. Once gained, however, they want to please their owners. This is where patience comes in. By exercising constant patience, the chances that the Alexandrine will bond with its owner are much greater than if someone were to attempt to force the Alexandrine to be taught to speak.

    Wild Call

    • Alexandrine parakeets have an instinctive "wild call" that they vocalize throughout the day. This high-pitched squawk can be quite annoying, and it's important that the bird's owner does not respond to the wild call whenever it is sounded. Since the Alexandrine is an intelligent bird, it will begin to sound the wild call whenever it wants companionship.