outside the cage

[robbyf]

hello all. I'm new to the forums and joining to seek advice and tips.
I have had my pretty blue parakeet for one week. he is comfortable with me in his cage and is familar with 'step up' command. I have had him out of his cage last 2 days but is more interested in flying and walking around then playing with me.... I got him a playground today but that didn't work.

he only listens when I treat him to some spray millet otherwise he is all over the room. he ignores my step up command when I think he is near danger and end up chasing him back to his cage. (wings clipped)

I need to show him that I am fun and not dagerous I guess. and brake him (Sid) of the spray millet addiction. it worked great for teaching him the lingo tho.

now what?

[BirdieBabi]

Since your seeking advice, you've come to the right place. A lot of people here can tell you some advice, and absolutely everyone can share your interests of budgies.

You sound like you've got a very nice budgie. It is very normal for him to pretty wary of you after a week. You've been doing pretty good though. Just stand near the cage and talk to him before you take him out and he won't be that bad.

I know you'll love it here!

[robbyf]

he LOVES to come out.. but doesn't listen to commands.. only when spray millet is around... like he is outsmarting me lol

[BirdieBabi]

Yeah my parakeets were just the same when I got them. Just keep saying the commands as a daily thing and (even though it might take awhile) it would work

[Budgiekin]

Patience is key! Try working with your sweety for short intervals but frequently throughout the day. Spending no more than about 10 minutes at a time actually handling your budgie is good, and doing that 3-5 times a day can work pretty well. Also, consider taking the cage away when you let your budgie out. That way he won't just make a run for the cage.

Good luck with your training and please keep us up to date with how he is doing! ;)

[robbyf]

thanks for the fast reply.. I'll keep trying. yours are very nice colours.