Parrots can become full-fledged conversationalists! Many owners dream of hearing: “Hello!” or even “How are you?” from their pet’s beak. But how do you do it? It’s hard work – step by step, with patience and love. And it all starts with the right approach.
Which parrots learn to speak best?
The ability to imitate human speech has many species of parrots, but the most famous “talkers” are gray jacos, amazons, ari, as well as korellas and wavy parrots. It is especially interesting that even a small wavy parrot is able to learn up to a hundred words if it is regularly practiced. Males, as a rule, learn faster and more willingly, although there are exceptions. The main thing is not age, but trust. The parrot should feel safe with you, then it will open up to learning. If the bird is afraid of hands or stressed, it is not up to language. Start by building a relationship: affectionate communication, calm presence near you, favorite treats and warm tone of voice – all this forms the basis for future “dialogue”.
What is the right way to teach a parrot to speak?
Parrots learn on the principle of repetition and attachment to emotions. That is, just saying the words is not enough. It is important how you say it. For example, it is better to teach the word “yummy” while feeding your favorite food. And “hello” – every time you enter the room. This is how the parrot forms an association: sound matters.
It is best to start with short, clear words, especially those with strong vowels: “hello”, “pa-pa”, “kitty”, “walk”, “no”. Repeat the same word several times a day – enthusiastically, as if it were the best news in the world. The parrot will not react immediately – but at some point it will repeat, and then it is important to react: praise, give a treat, rejoice like a child. The bird should feel that what it has done is cool!
It is not necessary to include parrot voice recordings or YouTube in the hope that he will “listen” – it rarely works. Because a parrot learns from someone it has an emotional connection with, not from a soulless speaker.
Patience is the key to conversation
Some will have their first word in two weeks, some in three months. Some birds can purr to themselves their whole lives without uttering a word. But that doesn’t mean they’re not smart. It’s just that each parrot is an individual.
The most important thing is regularity. Spend at least 10-15 minutes every day in communication. You can talk to the parrot about everything: how your day went, where you go, what you do. The main thing is intonation and repetition. Parrots copy not only words, but also intonation, manner of speaking and even emotions in the voice. Some learn laughter, coughing, barking, or even alarm clock sounds – anything they hear often and that arouses their interest.
Another tip is to avoid using “unnecessary” words. If you often repeat phrases that you don’t want to hear from your bird – prepare yourself that they will learn them. There are many stories where the parrot instead of “good afternoon” said something not quite educated – and all because of the owners.
Conclusion
A talking parrot is the result of real interaction, trust and friendship. These birds are able to sense intonation, convey emotion, and build connection on a level we often underestimate. If you are willing to invest in communication, be patient and sincere – your feathered friend is sure to talk. And the first time he says, “Hi!” – it will be a moment you will never forget.
