Overview
The Quaker parrot is a favorite among bird owners because of its endearing personality and its facility for human speech. The new, updated edition of this popular book provides expert advice on Quaker parrot behavior training, grooming, diet, cages, toys, and protecting the inquisitive Quaker parrot from household accidents. The author, a widely recognized expert on parrots, emphasizes the importance of reinforcing desirable behavior and instructs on sensitively replacing undesirable ones, such as excessive noisemaking, biting, and feather destruction issues. She also discusses newly identified anatomical features and recovering escaped birds, and presents background information on Quaker parrots in their native ranges and newly-acquired naturalized status. Filled with color photos and instructive illustrations.Synopsis
The Quaker parrot is becoming one of the most popular companion parrots as bird owners discover that it is easy to train, has a colorful and endearing personality, and often develops human speech imitation almost spontaneously. This volume provides the details of parrot behavior training, best begun when the bird is still in its baby stage. Patterning and positive reinforcement are applied to balancing human and territorial bonding, maintaining status in the pecking order, and "potty" training. The author also gives general advice on cages, bird toys, grooming, diet, and protecting against household accidents. Potential problem areas are also discussed, including aggressive behavior, molting, excessive noisemaking, and sexual behavior. There is a special chapter on physically imperfect Quaker parrots, advice on recapturing escaped birds, and background information on Quakers as pets in Brazil. The text is enhanced with dozens of full-color photos and line art.