Birds spend more than half their timein the wild, foraging for food. We want to encourage this normal behavior in our home environment. Birds are very intelligent creatures. Foraging provides mental stimulation and challenge. One-on-one time may also include positive reinforcement training. We also recommend encouraging flock behavior, which means eating together, or hanging out together (preferably on a stand or boing), while you are watching TV or working on the computer. Your bird can be near you but should not be held or caressed during these times.
The videos below are great resources in providing positive reinforcement and setting up a foraging environment for the mental and physical well being of your feathered friends.These videos are available for purchase at our hospital.
For additional information and techniques ask for our, "Keys to a Healthy, Happy Bird" handout at your next visit!
CAPTIVE FORAGING: DVD
By M. Scott Echols, DVM, Dipl ABVP - Avian Practice
Understand the natural foraging instinct of all animals and learn how to Prevent unwanted behaviors, such as feather destruction and repetitive functionless activity. Learn how to build a foraging tree for captive birds and create other foraging toys - from basic to advanced - to keep birds occupied and happy.
Parrot Behavior and Training #1: DVD
By Barbara Heidenreich
This DVD covers the basic fundamentals of training with positive reinforcement. The training subjects are companion parrots learning behaviors for the first time.
Training for the Veterinary Exam #2: DVD
By Barbara Heidenreich
Make you bird’s next visit to the veterinarian stress free! This DVD shows you how to train your parrot to cooperate in his own medical care. Step by step instructions demonstrate how to train each behavior.
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