by Michael » Thu Jun 10, 2010 8:07 pm
Nice job. Even if you don't use clicker/treats, if you can achieve reliable and consistent recalls this way, it can definitely be classified as a flight recall and a trick. Remember that training requires some kind of reinforcement (positive or negative). It doesn't necessarily have to be food. If the parrot consistently comes to you when you call it just cause it wants to be with you, your presence is positively reinforcing. There is a chance that this is coincidence or that it's just baby motivation that will wear off as it gets older, so just remember to keep practicing and being consistent.
Also, I'm not sure if you were being quick just for the sake of the video or not. But if the parrot feels reinforced by being on you, make sure you hold it for a bit longer before you put it back for another flight. It has to soak in the enjoyment of being with you or it will stop flying to you cause it will learn that you will just put it back and make it do it over and over again for nothing.