Budgie keeps holding onto millet

[Limon]

Limon has formed a new habit when training and that is holding onto the piece of millet whenever I reward her. I've tried cutting the millet and making it shorter, but the little menace still finds some way to grab on; she has a really firm grip for such a small bird . Does anyone have any suggestions on how I guide her to unlearn this habit? She really likes rolled oats and I was using that as a treat when training for a short while. But that's high in fat compared to millet and that wouldn't be great for her long term.

 

[Spearmint]

Spearmint does this too, so I don't use millet much now- but I find holding it in my fingers (one individual 'ball') so they can only get a bite of the seed sometimes works.

 

[Shezbug]

Sounds like you have to hold much less so there’s not enough for your bird to actually grab.

 

[Limon]

Spearmint does this too, so I don't use millet much now- but I find holding it in my fingers (one individual 'ball') so they can only get a bite of the seed sometimes works.

I'll give the 'ball' method a try. Thanks for your advice!

 

[Limon]

Sounds like you have to hold much less so there’s not enough for your bird to actually grab.

I've tried that too but then she'll step up onto my finger searching for more millet.

 

[Spearmint]

I'll give the 'ball' method a try. Thanks for your advice!

wasn't sure if my explanation made sense but here's what i mean

ft. my very artistic skills

 

[Shezbug]

wasn't sure if my explanation made sense but here's what i mean
View attachment 430913
ft. my very artistic skills

your description was good and your pic is even better!

 

[Limon]

wasn't sure if my explanation made sense but here's what i mean
View attachment 430913
ft. my very artistic skills

I love it I'll update you on how it goes.

 

[Limon]

(Update) I tried the 'ball' method and it was a success! Also, holding the millet vertically helped a ton because she was less likely to perch up onto my finger and grab on to the treat that way. Thank you again for the brilliant idea!

 

[GreenThing]

Sorry, Spearmint, I couldn't help updating your art to be more scientifically accurate...