Training a pair of cockatiels

[alexpchad]

Ive had a pair of cockatiels (Male and Female) for 3 monthes. They are about 1 year old now and im afraid that ill never be able to train them. In the past 3 months ive made hardly any progress ( besides being able to get the female on my finger every now and then. The male is constantly making a warbling like sound, and hes still as afraid of me as when i first adopted them. Some advice would be apreciated. Its starting to get a bit stressful.

[Shellybird]

You've actually asked a question that was being discussed on other topics for 'tiels. :]

So I will just redirect you to it. Though I know you have two 'tiels instead of one, the advice posted on this topic can be useful if you choose to try to follow it.

http://www.tailfeathersnetwork.com/c...ad.php?t=56690

Just scroll down. There is a ton of information posted about how to train. Hopefully this helps- I think there are some posts about having two birds and training them at the same time as well.

[schlisa]

Sometimes it can just take a really long time. Just keep at it. It sounds like you are making some progress by getting the female to step up on your finger.

[KristinaT]

I adopted a pair of tiels myself. I've had them for about 3 months, and so far, I've gotten one (Moonlight) to step up on my finger. The other one, Sunshine, has made some progress in that he will take millet from my hand. He has even walked around outside of the cage, then go back in. Each bird is different, so you have to adjust to its own comfort level.

Use millet to train them. I initially started by giving them millet through the cage, then worked my way inside and closer to the birds. It is tricky, but with patience, it's worth it. They now come up to my hand for this treat. Daily interactions will lead them to realize that you are a friend, part of the flock and not an enemy. Aside from millet, you can bond with them by talking with them, keeping the cage door open when you're around, and misting them. Good luck!