How to Teach a Parrot to Talk

It’s no secret that parrots are some of the most intelligent animals on the planet and their ability to mimic human speech is one of the many things that draw people to them. But let’s get one thing clear from the start: no one should get a parrot purely because they want a talking pet.

Parrots aren’t toys or novelties. They are complex, emotional, and highly social beings that require specific care, attention, and lifelong commitment. Teaching a parrot to talk can be fun, but it’s only one small part of what it means to live with a parrot.

Some Parrots Never Talk—And That’s Completely Normal

While many parrots can learn to mimic noises, words and phrases, there’s no guarantee that yours will. Some birds, even those from species known for talking (like African greys or Amazon parrots), may never say a single word. Others might chatter nonstop. It varies hugely from bird to bird, and personality plays a massive role.

If your only motivation for getting a parrot is to hear it talk, it’s time to rethink. Parrots are not entertainment machines, and focusing solely on speech often leads to neglect in other important areas of care.

So, How Do You Teach a Parrot to Talk?

If your parrot seems vocal and curious about human speech, here’s how you can gently encourage their talking skills:

1. Start with Simple, Repeated Phrases

Use short, clear words and phrases they hear often. Things like:

• "Hello!"

• "Good morning"

• "Step up"

• Their name

• "Want a treat?"

Speak slowly and with emotion, parrots tend to mimic phrases that are said with energy, drama, or strong feeling. Think about how many parrots have picked up a sing-song “hellooo!” or even the odd swear word!

2. Use Context and Association

Try to pair phrases with actions. Say “want some?” every time you give a treat, or “bedtime” before they go to their sleeping area. Repeating words in a meaningful context helps parrots understand and eventually repeat them.

3. Be Consistent and Patient

Parrots might take weeks, months, or even years before they say anything. Stay consistent with the words you use, and celebrate even the smallest attempts.

4. Model Good Language… and Watch What You Say!

Parrots often latch onto whatever gets a strong reaction, including the things you don’t want them to repeat. Shouting, laughing, or reacting dramatically to a word or noise is a fast-track way to make sure they say it forever.

Swearing, baby cries, phone ringtones, microwave beeps, smoke alarm low battery beeps… all common things parrots learn to copy because of their frequency and emotional tone.

What If My Parrot Says Something I Don’t Like?

Unfortunately, you can’t exactly ‘un-teach’ a word. The best approach is to stop reacting to it and avoid saying it yourself. Try redirecting with a new, more desirable phrase said with enthusiasm and frequency.

Over time, some parrots drop words they don’t hear or get no reaction from, but others will keep their favourite phrases forever, so prevention is always better than cure!

Teaching a parrot to talk can be rewarding and entertaining, but it should never be the main reason for bringing a parrot into your life. These birds have complex needs, emotional, dietary, environmental, and social, and speaking is just a small slice of the whole picture.

If you’re considering a parrot, do your research, understand their care requirements, and be prepared for the real day-to-day life of parrot ownership. Talking is a bonus, not a promise.