I bought a cockatiel who was previously owned. He has certain songs that he sings, but nothing exceptional. I am trying to teach him to say certain words (words as simple as "hello") but he doesn't ever speak. What is the best method to teach a cockatiel to speak? Are there certain things NOT to do? Are there sounds or words that are more often learned than others? He is very smart and very loveable and it seems bizarre that he will not speak (I do say the words many times per day).
Deanna
Deanna,
When trying to teach a cockatiel to talk, we advise you take the bird into a room that has little or no distractions, trying to get his undivided attention. Begin with simple words such as hello or repeat the bird's name unless his name is multi-syllable. Repetition and rewarding the bird for his efforts works best. You don't mention how old your
'tiel is and that could be important. The older the bird, the harder it may be for him to learn to mimic. Not all cockatiels learn to talk but hopefully, if you are patient, one day when you least expect it, he will.