An Introduction to Positive Reinforcement Training and Its Benefits

Training birds with positive reinforcement involves focusing on kind and gentle methods to create behavior. This article explores some of the basic strategies and principles used to train birds with positive reinforcement based on the science of applied behavior analysis. These methods can be used to train reliable, repeatable, consistent voluntary presentation of behaviors that facilitate optimum avian care without the use of aversive strategies that promote domination and control. More importantly, these principles can be used to solve behavior problems and also train medically important behaviors, including voluntary nail trims, vaccinations, and blood sampling, as evidenced by successful training completed in several zoos in the United States. By learning the application of positive reinforcement training strategies, avian enthusiasts can revolutionize care and management practices for companion parrots.