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These birds were made for talking

By Gina Spadafori

published 04/11/2004

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My parrot Eddie, a black-headed caique, is of a species known for clownish behavior and constant energy, not for talking ability. I knew this when I chose him, consciously deciding against a trait that many parrot lovers crave. I didn’t really want a bird who always had something to say.

My initial reluctance to keep a chatty pet is why I was surprised at my delight when Eddie spoke his first words not long ago. He repeated my request to “step up” onto my finger before lifting his foot to comply. I guess there’s just something about a pet who speaks the same language as we do that’s undeniably appealing.

For many people, having a talking pet is one of the primary reasons for getting a parrot in the first place. From the moment someone brings home even a small parrot — a budgie, cockatiel or lovebird — the teaching and hoping begin. After all, you don’t want to have to answer “no” to the question every parrot owner is asked eventually: “Does he talk?”

The truth is, not all parrots talk, not even those from the species known best for their mimicry, such as the double-yellow-headed and yellow-naped Amazons and the Timneh or Congo varieties of the African grays. While nearly every parrot species kept as a pet has a talker or two among its ranks, some types of birds just aren’t known for their mimicry. Some species are better at sounds than words, and some are better at whistling. Eddie, for example, is mostly a whistler, with a repertoire that includes the theme from the Miss America pageant.

The larger parrots — Amazons, macaws, African grays and cockatoos — are usually good talkers, but don’t count out all the small birds. The tiny budgie is known for its ability, with some birds acquiring a vocabulary of more than 300 words, all articulated in a high-pitched little voice. Some cockatiels are not bad talkers either. Lovebirds, however, are generally considered not that good at picking up words and phrases.

Realistically, it’s best to consider talking a bonus rather than a requisite characteristic of your pet. Choose a young, well-socialized bird and love him for his many fine qualities, whether or not talking is among them. That way you’re sure not to be disappointed. If you’re absolutely set on owning a talking bird, buy one that talks already — and make sure you hear the conversation before you plunk down payment.

Nothing’s wrong with trying to teach your pet to talk, though. You can try to teach your parrot some words and phrases by repeating them clearly, or even by using tapes or computer programs that say the same language over and over. You can nurture communication further by using the words in their proper context, and by setting up an association your bird can grasp.

For example, every time your bird lowers his head to request a scratch, ask him, “Wanna scratch?” and then scratch him. When you give him foods or other toys, call them by name out loud. Play naming games with him. Say “toy” and then tell him “Good bird!” for taking the toy from you, and then repeat the exercise.

You may have an easier time if yours is a one-bird household. Two birds may be more interested in talking their own language with each other than figuring out your expressions. Some experts also suggest not attempting to teach your bird to whistle, at least not until he has picked up speech. Whistling birds seem to show a reluctance to use words.

What about the words or sounds you don’t want mimicked? Don’t teach them, for a start, no matter how funny it may be to hear your parrot be bawdy. If you think it’s funny for your bird to swear in private, you’ll have to live with that behavior when the minister’s over for dinner. As for those nasties a pet picks up by accident, the best you can do is ignore them, providing neither positive nor negative reinforcement.

Although I really wasn’t looking for a talking bird, I’m certainly not disappointed that I have one now. In fact, I’m looking forward to see what Eddie will say next.