How to Teach an Eclectus Parrot

The Eclectus parrot is often considered one of the dullest breeds of parrot. Most people get this idea because of the natural reaction they see produced by an Eclectus when it encounters a strange or unknown situation. In this environment, the bird will freeze up, refusing to speak and interact. However, when the Eclectus is in a location where it feels comfortable, with people and animals that it recognizes, it becomes a very affectionate and playful bird. Like many other parrots, an Eclectus can be trained and taught to do a variety of things.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Toys
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Be consistent and steady when training an Eclectus. If you don't keep what's right and what's wrong the same each time, the parrot will never learn the difference.

    • 2

      Use both positive and negative reinforcement to get the message across as to what is right or wrong. Once the Eclectus sees the good or bad after doing something so many times, it will learn the difference. Provide a tasty treat when the bird does something good, and put it away and cease giving it attention when it is bad.

    • 3

      Cage the bird immediately if biting becomes a problem. Soon the parrot will realize that if it wants to stay out and be social it will have to refrain from biting.

    • 4

      Provide a variety of items specifically designed to be chewed on. The Eclectus enjoys chewing on things to keep its beak sharp. This is a very basic need, although some bird owners neglect it unintentionally. Providing adequate toys and entertainment will result in a happier bird that is easier to train.

    • 5

      Repeat commands on a consistent basis to teach the parrot a specific trick. An Eclectus is capable of performing any number of tricks. Use the same signal or call each time you want the parrot to perform the trick and to reward it when it does.

    • 6

      Talk to your Eclectus parrot on a regular basis and repeat certain words or phrases over and over again to teach it to talk. It will take some time for the bird to pick up on the words, but simple repetition will help to provide reinforcement.