2026
Training Basics - Recall
Written By Isabelle Brinan, MSc
What?
Recall is training your bird to come to you or a perch at a signal or call
Why?
Mainly for safety reasons it is essential to have this taught incase they
ever become lost/ escape, in extreme cases. Free flight birds have this as
a basic part of their training before they are even allowed to be off
harness or outside. It's also great for their cardio vascular health as it
utilises their natural ability to fly which they may not be able to use
otherwise. It also helps build the bond between you and your bird
because they are trusting you be a reliable and firm place to land.
How?
Make sure your bird can safely fly before attempting to start any kind of recall training. Please visit your avian vet if in any doubt. You are honing a skill that they already possess.
Start off with your reinforcer and training of step up then over time gradually increase the distance between your hand/ perch and the bird.
Your bird may need some time to understand what is required so give plenty of praise and patience to them.
Make sure to also give a clear signal with your hand or voice to make this a distinct cue.