How can I teach my parakeet to talk?

Although all parakeets have the ability to talk, not all want to learn. So, keep in mind, there is no guarantee that your parakeet will learn how to talk. Male parakeets seem to generally be better at this than female ones, so, if you can, start with a male.

Pick a short word or phrase with hard consonant sounds, like 'picnic' or 'pretty bird' and repeat it to him slowly and frequently a few times a day. Don't try to teach him more than one phrase. Pick one and stick to it. Also, get into the habit of talking to your parakeet in general, so that he gets used to the sound of your voice and comfortable with the idea of replicating the sound of it.

The ability to talk is not going to happen overnight, so you will have to be patient. It can take weeks, months, and even years for your parakeet to develop this ability.

Here is a good resource, if you would like to learn more.

Other questions in 'About Parakeets in General'

1. Where in the world do parakeets come from? Where do they live in the wild?
2. How long does a parakeet live? What is the lifespan of a parakeet?
3. How can I extend the lifespan of my parakeet?
4. What are budgies and budgerigars? How are they different from parakeets?
5. Can I give a parakeet as a gift?
6. Is a parakeet an appropriate pet for a child?
7. At what age can a child have a parakeet?
8. Can parakeets talk?
9. How can I teach my parakeet to talk?

Browse Other Frequently Asked Questions