How to Train Parrots to Talk

Larger parrots are easier to train to speech than smaller parrots.

Parrots are famous for mimicking human speech but not all parrots are capable of talking. The larger the parrot, the more likely he has vocal capabilities. African gray parrots, yellow-crowned Amazon parrots and blue-fronted Amazon parrots are all more likely to talk than their smaller cousins. Given time and effort, many parrots learn to mimic a few words of human speech, but it is important to remember that some parrots simply do not learn this trick.

Things You'll Need

• Treats

Instructions

1. Start the training as early as possible. Amazon parrots in particular are more capable of speech if they start before the age of 1.5 years old. African gray parrots, however, are capable of learning words throughout their lives.

2. Choose a simple word. "Hi" and "hello" are two possibilities. The simpler the word, the easier it is for the parrot to learn.

3. Repeat the word slowly and carefully in front of the parrot, enunciating clearly.

4. Give the parrot a treat when it makes some noise in return and praise it lavishly. Sunflower seeds, almonds and peanuts still in the shell are good choices for parrot treats as parrots like to remove the shell.

5. Repeat the process at least once a day, preferably more often. With more repetition, parrots find more encouragement in speaking.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the sessions limited to 15 minutes or less. Longer lessons may frustrate your parrot.

• Avoid using recorded tapes to teach your parrot to talk. Parrots become bored with the machine voice very quickly. They are significantly more responsive to a human who is speaking to them with energy and excitement.

References

• 2nd Chance; Teaching Your Parrot to Talk; Ron Hines DVM PhD
• Pet Parrots 101; Speech Training; Ashkan Sharifzadeh