How to Teach a Parrot to Talk

As satisfied bird owners can attest, teaching a parrot to talk takes patience but is well worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

  • Cassette Tape Recorders
  • Parrot Cages
  • Parrot Food
  • Parrot Treat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin teaching your parrot to talk when she is 4 to 6 months old at the latest. Try a simple 'Good morning' to your bird at the start of each day. Keep in mind that some parrots will pick up words sooner than others.

    • 2

      Hold the bird in front of your mouth when you teach her, so that you have her attention.

    • 3

      Repeat words or phrases, such as family members' names and common expressions. Be sure to show lots of excitement in your voice. Your parrot will gradually begin to repeat after you.

    • 4

      Repeat certain words or phrases every time you do something, such as 'Up' when you lift your bird up, to teach her to associate a certain movement with certain words.

    • 5

      Reward with treats when your parrot mimics you.

    • 6

      Consider playing recordings of words you want her to learn for up to 15 minutes at a time ' longer than that can cause boredom.