How to Train a Ringneck Parrot

The Ringneck Parrot is also known as the Indian Ringneck Parakeet, and it is originally from India. It is an elegant and colorful bird that makes an intelligent and loyal pet. As with many intelligent bird breeds, the Ringneck can learn how to talk as well as learn other tricks. The Ringneck Parrot is a flamboyant bird that likes to show off for anyone who is paying attention. Many develop behavioral problems relating to this love of showing off, however, so training your parrot at a young age is beneficial for you as well as your bird.

Things You'll Need

  • Large birdcage (4 feet tall by 2 feet wide)
  • Free-standing bird perch
  • Bag of snack mix
  • Spray bottle (set on fine mist)
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Instructions

  1. Bonding with Your Parrot

    • 1

      Spend time acclimating your bird to its environment. Keep it in a suitably large enclosure. Do not let it out for two weeks after bringing it home.

    • 2

      Talk to your Ringneck Parrot frequently in a calm and soothing voice. Do this every day, as often as possible during the two weeks of acclimation time.

    • 3

      Open the bird's cage slowly and carefully after you feel like it has had time to relax in its new environment. Sit for an hour a day with the door of the birdcage open and in front of the opening. Do this for three or four days.

    • 4

      Begin to slowly reach your hand into the bird's habitat. Do not reach for the parrot, but offer your hand as a perch instead. If the parrot is comfortable, it should just hop right on.

    • 5

      Make a snack mix of dry cereal such as Captain Crunch and slices of banana.

    • 6

      Offer the snack mix to your pet bird to show it that you are not a threat. The bird will eventually follow you around and become tame.

    Training Your Bird

    • 7

      Open the birdcage and sit the free-standing perch in front of the opening.

    • 8

      Place some snack mix in a dish on the perch to entice the parrot to come out.

    • 9

      Lightly spray the air above your head with the water mister using slow movements, to test the bird's reflex. If the bird flinches, give it some snack mix and reassure it.

    • 10

      Spray the air with the water mister again, closer to the bird. Keep offering treats while you talk to it, to keep the parrot calm.

    • 11

      Eventually, the bird will allow you to spray it lightly with the water mister as a way to bathe it. Many birds grow to enjoy this weekly ritual, but require training in the beginning to not fear water.