Lovebirds:

"Training Lovebirds"

A Lovebird is a sweet, affectionate, and fun companion for any bird lover. It lives for interaction with humans and fellow birds. Lovebirds are not, however, without their faults. In fact a few have been known to be quite contrary to their endearing name.

Lovebirds that are not getting enough attention will often become temperamental and develop behavioral problems.  It is important that you spend plenty of time with this type of bird. Proper training will ensure having a lovebird that loves to spend time with you.  Here are some common problems of Lovebirds, along with ideas for eliminating them. Lovebird Screeching Some species of Lovebirds are more vocal than others, but all tend to make some amount of noise. This is especially true in the mornings, evenings, and when the bird is excited. While some vocalization is to be expected, constant squawking must be attended to.

If the bird’s needs are met and there are no signs of underlying health problems, the screeching is probably an effort to get attention. And while it is important to give your Love Bird plenty of attention, you can’t be expected to spend all day every day playing with him. Training your lovebird how to ask for attention more politely is a highly effective way to combat this problem.

When your Lovebird screeches, don’t reward him with positive or negative attention. Don’t look at him, and leave the room if you can. Come back when he is being quieter, and give attention when he does something more positive. Many Lovebirds do not speak, so you may have to settle for whistling, wing spreading, or a trick. Reward the behavior with attention and a treat, and your bird will figure out that this is what he should do when he wants you around.

A quick nip is bound to get your attention, right? Taking note of the circumstances under which your bird bites will help you determine how to handle it. If you find that the bird is biting to keep from being put in his cage or taken off his perch, or having to do something else he doesn’t want to do, it is important to stand your ground.

Don’t react to the bite by yelling and pulling away – this will only reinforce the behavior. Instead, remain silent and push your hand toward the bird. When the bite doesn’t get a reaction or allow him to have his way, he will figure out that it serves no purpose. Training a Lovebird can and will be very rewarding if the steps are followed!

Lovebird Feather Plucking When a Lovebird plucks his feathers, he may have a health problem that requires medical attention. It’s a good idea to take a plucking bird to the vet, just to be on the safe side. If there are no medical issues, the plucking is probably a result of emotional problems

Lovebirds often pluck when they are not getting enough attention. Training and playing with your bird more often may solve the problem. If not, he may be fearful of something or someone in your home. If you can figure out what it is, getting him accustomed to it slowly may be the answer. Lovebird training starts with you making the commitment to your lovebird.

Training is far and away the easiest and most effective solution to Lovebird behavior problems. It not only teaches your bird what is acceptable behavior, it creates a bond of trust that makes living with your Love Bird a fun and loving way to spend your days. If you are interested in our Lovebird Training Videos sign up for our free newsletter!