Instructions
Create a stimulating environment for your parrot. Because African Greys are intelligent birds, they are easily bored and often exhibit behavioral issues out of frustration. Outfitting the cage with a selection of toys and diversions ensures your pet parrot will be relaxed and ready to learn. Keeping the cage in the kitchen allows your parrot to interact with people and become comfortable with the noises and smells in your home.
Set the stage for a successful one-on-one training session. Mornings and evenings are optimal times for teaching a parrot to talk, as birds are generally more vocal during the beginning and end of the day. Allow your parrot to remain where it's most comfortable, either in the cage or perched on your arm during training, and eliminate potential distractions. The sound from a television or radio might draw your African Grey's attention away from your words.
Mimic your Grey's natural vocalizations. If your pet bird makes another sound in response to yours, or begins babbling to itself, you've laid the groundwork for a promising training session.
Speak to your parrot in the same way you would to a small child who is learning new words. Choose a single word or phrase you want your African Grey to learn, and say it loudly and clearly. Use an expressive tone of voice to gain your Grey's interest.
Repeat the chosen word or phrase. Repetition is the key to getting a parrot to talk.
You might show your pet bird the object connected to the word or phrase you're teaching; hold up a toy when you say, "playtime." Your parrot can't comprehend the concept of playtime, but it can begin to associate the toy with the word.
Praise your parrot when it responds to your voice. Affection and small treats let your Grey know you recognize good behavior, and you'll encourage more of the same.
How to Teach Your African Grey to Talk
The African Grey parrot is the most vocal of all parrots that talk. It loves to mimic sounds and words. It's relatively simple to teach your African Grey to talk, provided the bird is still young, is not ill and possesses a social temperament. Before you begin training your parrot, give it a couple of weeks to adjust to your home and bond with you.