Hi Rainlily,
You are on the right track. If you keep working wioth your birds to get them to step up, you will be on a pathway that will be good for you and your "BABIES"
Cockatiels truly want to please and they learn very quickly once they get the idea that you are trying to convey.
One thing i would add to your "step up" training is the actual verbal command to Step Up. Each time you present your finger to your bird, use the command. I would also put my finger slightly higher on the bird when requesting a "step up". Some birds don't like their feet being touched too often and for birds like that, touching their feet to get them to step up slows down the progress of the training.
Touch the bird on his or her "tummy" so to speak. With Cockatiels, I find that a spot about 1 1/2 inches to 2 inches above the feet is best. You just place your finger against the birds body at that point and apply the slightest amount of pressure and the bird will walk right up onto your finger. Be sure to say Step Up when you place your finger there. These birds are remarkably smart. I've had tiels learn to step up in 20 minutes or less. Some on the other hand take more time. It is not because of the intelligence of the bird as no tiel is any less intelligent than another tiel. It is just that some personalities of some cockatiels are just a little more contrary. Parrots understand praise, so say Good baby or use the bird's name when you praise it. Give praise after each succesful step up.
They all learn well.
Try the different position of the "step Up" finger and I think that will go alot more smoohly. My guys will come to me hand at this point whether I ask them to or not. Eventually, you want that kind of reaction. The birds look at you as the big protector of the flock and they will come to you.
Again, read my website as I try to offer the answers to as many questions as I can as a part of the site. of course, there is always more to add.
Bill
PS: One of the best Cockatiel books I have ever read is written by Dianne Grindol.. It is one of those "Dummies" books withe the Yellow and Black covers . It is called "Cockatiels for Dummies" and it is Excellent.
If you have any questions I can help with , post them here although I answer gfaster if you email directly at
foundinrolls@netscape.net
I write a column for a coin magazine that explains rare coins that can be found in rolls from banks.
I check that email address more often then I do the forums.
Have Fun,
Bill
