Benefits of “capturing”

[nkrbkr]

I just wanted to mention “capturing” as a training technique, for those that enjoy trick training. I’ve used it several times with Button (lovebird). He has learned a few tricks, or parts of tricks, using capturing. Essentially, your bird does something naturally, you “capture” the behavior by using a clicker or word like “good”, and give a reward immediately after.

I used capturing yesterday evening to teach Ava (Amazon) to “shake.” She was about to step up to me, but only gave me one foot. I shook her little footie, said “shake,” then gave her a treat while telling her “good girl.” I did this several times to reinforce the trick. Today, she’s already offering me her foot to shake on her own to get treats, which is very cute.

Trick training can be very useful as well. For example, using the “shake” command will be very helpful if I need to check out Ava’s feet, toes, or nails, as she’ll be more of a willing participant. I have used the “flap” command with Button (which I used capturing to train) to make sure his wings are okay after a couple of less than desirable landings. Trick training is super fun and enriching for both bird and human, but can be incredibly helpful for health and handling reasons as well!

 

[rheashard2]

I envy those who can use a clicker. I do similar but voice only. I got Nameliss to wave by giving encouragement every time she lifted a foot. It was funny because she would look at me then her foot. I got the distinct impression she was doubting my sanity. Nameliss is a bit inconsistent with waving. I don't say foot. I say toes up please. She lifts her foot. Imagine in your sixth decade with wonky knees. Then imagine your CAG going to her stick. click up..click down..click you're an eagle (wing exercise) Naturally I can't and have never been able to stand on a stick! So begins a coaxing voice. Then drill sergeant voice. She watched a dog training video using clicker. So began random clicks and dog commands, sit, down, paw. I like listening to success stories about clicker training.

 

[wrench13]

Honestly,I cant say I use this technique with Salty a lot. Basic tricks like Shake and Wings are good tricks, but the value here I think is developing the cooperative nature of the training. I think once parrots understand that you are trying to teach and show them new things, they are eager to participate. FOr a new trick with Salty, its definitely a cooperation between us. Encouragement, demonstration and literally working together usually gets him in the right direction. And trust, which is the key ingredient.

From Shake you can go on to giving Five, High FIve, Low Five. Make a little banner and flag pole and have him wave it around. Expand on this I bet he will love it.

 

[nkrbkr]

Yes, absolutely! Cooperation and trust are the most important parts of training. Generally, I purposefully try to train things with my birds, but use capturing as a tool from time to time when I see a behavior I’d like to continue. That said, I think Salty may be a bit sharper than others. I don’t know that I could train Ava to ride a bicycle…

 

[onamom]

Well said @nkrbkr! This is always a good method to keep in mind. I haven’t had the chance to use this method as much with my birds, but I have before with my dog.