Here’s a clue to help you train your pet
bird. They learn by social modeling; i.e.,
copying what works for others (apparently very
important for survival in flocks). Dr. Irene
Pepperberg has found that birds learn amazingly
quickly if they watch two people interact, with
one saying or doing something which results in
a treat. She and another person play-act;
she will say to the person, “What’s
this?” When the person gives the correct
answer, such as, “wood toy,” she says, “Good!” and
gives the person a treat and the toy to play with. After
only several repeats, she finds that the bird is
eager to compete for the toy and give the correct
answer.
