Step Up?

[silverwill]

So I got a budgie about a month ago and hes rather tame now, he will eat from my hand, is interested in what I do, enjoys and will ask for head scratches but I cant figure out how to teach him step up, he gets uncomfortable when put my finger on his chest, Im hoping that it will come with time but does anyone have any tips?

[starlingqueen]

Have you tried putting your finger behind him, under his tail to get him to step up backwards? Or just lower your finger to touch his feet rather than on his chest.

[helenmat]

I usually start by resting my finger on the perch along side them so they don't stress out about it, then just extend your index finger and go really low down just about about their feet, push your finger gently towards them and say 'step up', be patient and praise whenever they so much as touch your finger. You could also try holding a millet berry in your thumb and index finger and try and make them sit on you hand while they eat it. Always say 'step up' as you do it and they will soon know that is a good thing. Good luck, let us know how you get on.

[Hezz]

Stepping up is one of the easiest things to teach as they don't like that finger poking at them; if they stand on the finger, you can't prod them with it. They are smart like that. Give him a gentle nudge with your finger across his chest, down towards his feet. He has two choices - step onto the finger to get away from it, or feel like he is going to fall off, as your finger over-balances him. Given these two choices, most budgies will opt for stepping up. Heap the praise onto him when he does the right thing. I doubt it would take any time at all to get him co-operating, as he is already trusting you.