Expert: Teresa Weingart - 1/11/2012

Question
Hello Teresa
I really appreciate this opportunity as I feel there is a way to train my cockatiel. He is very good at night and generally on the weekends when he has more out of cage time, however lately he has been screaming often or chirping non stop. The chirping is not loud, however he is persistent. He will even do it while on my shoulder.  This is typically in the morning.  The other issue is the persistent screaming in the morning. His last owner would make sure he could see him, however I think that has created some attention getting bad habits.

I have tried whispering close to him. I have tried other noises. I have tried giving him undivided attention for a short period of time when he's screaming. (I always wait until he pauses so it's not a reward)

Sometimes on the weekend a nap/cover time in the cage has worked really well and he's great after.

I have time to train him and am excited to do so, however I have NO idea how to do so. Please help.

I should also note that he is 3 and does not love treats or toys. He's very very shy to them and just barely plays on his play gym--although he will visit it.

I very much appreciate any and all advice.

Thank you.
Janaina

Answer
Hi Janaina -


Thanks for posting your question.

I guess I'm not sure what you're trying to train him to do.

He sounds normal to me.  Cockatiels can make a lot of noise and
will scream when you're out of their site, if they have made a bond with you.
Cockatiels become very attached very quickly.  He sounds like he gets very attached
very easily, so if you're goal is to train him
not to try and get your attention, I'm sorry but I don't have any advice.

Good luck to you.

Teresa