Can older parrots learn new words?

Parrots are known for their longevity, and with a good handler, who teaches them constantly and systematically, they continue to learn new words and phrases well into their “old” age.

How long does it take a parrot to learn a new word?

Most parrots take around 12 months or more to form clear and coherent phrases that humans can understand. Smarter parrots, such as African greys, can pick up individual words in only a few weeks. However, that’s not to say they resemble the original word. It takes time and practice for parrots to mimic words well.

Can you teach an older parrot to talk?

Similar to when you’re trying to learn a new language or a new skill, repetition is the key. Some people put this to practice by chatting with their bird daily or speaking with them about the day. Soon enough, the bird will begin to talk on its own.

What age do African Greys stop learning new words?

It may be possible to teach it if it has motivation. I know African Greys start loosing their motivation to learn (if properly trained/tame/healthy) when about 10 years old. You could definitely get a few more words/phrases in.

How do parrots learn new words?

Repeat the Word or Phrase as Often as Possible Once you have locked onto a word that your feathered friend is interested in, repeat the word to it as often as you possibly can. Parrots learn to mimic through repetition—so saying the word over and over again is the only way to encourage your bird to say it back.

What words are easy for parrots to say?

The best way to encourage birds to speak is to choose a few short words for them to start off with. Examples of good starter words include “hello,” “bye-bye,” “nite-nite,” or even your bird’s own name. Simple words, when said with enthusiasm, seem to become more interesting to most parrots.

Can older African GREY learn talk?

The average grey starts talking around 12 to 18 months depending on the individual bird. Some have been noted as early as 6 months of age. Most greys start out mumbling and practicing words when they are alone. They often surprise owners when they yell out their first clear word.

Can a parrot hold a conversation?

Parrots can hold conversations in a loose sense. While they likely don’t understand precisely what they’re saying, they can vocalize enough words and phrases for us to be able to hold a conversation with them. As mentioned, this is only possible when their owners engage in regular conversation.