Parrot Wizard Videos

How to Teach a Parrot to Lay on Their Back in Your Hand!

Kili my Senegal Parrot Lays on her back in my hand and enjoys cuddles. This video is about how you can teach your parrot to lie down on their back in your hand.

I demonstrate with my Senegal Parrot the training steps required to teach your parrot to lie down. Keep in mind that it is very important to first teach other basic training behaviors before attempting to flip your parrot on its back. The bird must be good at stepping up and comfortable being touched and help while upright.

It is not a good idea to roll a parrot that is uncomfortable being touched on the back. The parrot may become fearful of you and start biting. Learn more about the basics of parrot training from my other videos and The Parrot Wizard's Guide to Well-Behaved Parrots.

Start the training by placing your hand on the parrot's back and gently roll the parrot back. However, do not go all the way to upside down all at once. To gradually build trust being in this vulnerable position, start by only making small motions. Roll the parrot back 10 degrees and then immediately return the bird to upright and give a treat. Gradually practice having the bird go further back until eventually the bird is lying on its back in your hand.

Most parrots will cling tightly on your finger or hand with their feet where they were initially standing and not let go. You may be able to get the parrot to let go on its own or gently pry the toes off your hand. However, some parrots just won't let go. Another way to teach them to lay in your hand without holding on, is to start by grabbing the parrot into the air with your other hand and then roll the parrot on its back after.

Use positive reinforcement training, treats, and a deliberate training methodology to initially train the parrot to lay on its back in your hand. However, over time you can make this become more of a game and bonding exercise by giving cuddles and head scratches.

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