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How to Teach Your Bird to Talk

By Alyson Burgess, About.com

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Repeat the Word or Phrase as Often as Possible

Through consistency and repitition, this Blue and Gold Macaw has learned a number of words and phrases. Photo (c) 2006 Alyson Burgess licensed to About.com, Inc.

Once you have locked onto a word that your feathered friend is interested in, repeat the word to him as often as you possibly can.

Parrots learn to mimic through repitition -- so saying the word over and over again is the only way to encourage your bird to say it back.

While it's always best for owners to teach their pets directly, some owners opt to use extra learning tools such as tape recorders and CD's to help teach their birds to talk. Using these tools can be effective, and certainly won't hinder the training process, but owners should know that they are no substitute for one on one interaction, and should be used only as supplemental training aids.

Index: How to Teach Your Bird to Talk

  1. Get to Know Your Bird
  2. Choose Your Words Wisely
  3. Repeat the Word or Phrase as Often as Possible
  4. Have Patience, and Don't Get Discouraged

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