Aug 25 • Safety & Ethics
Harness Training 101: Step-by-Step Guide
Harnesses can be a safe stepping stone between indoor recall and true free-flight. Not every bird will take to it, but for many, it’s the perfect compromise.
The 3Ts to Remember:
- Tiny Steps → Break it down, never rush.
- Time → Sessions should be short and end positive.
- Trust → Your bird decides the pace.
Step-by-Step Training:
- Desensitise → Place the harness near the cage or play area so your bird sees it daily. Reward curiosity.
- Touch & Treat → Let your bird touch or beak the harness, reward instantly.
- Over the Head → Practice slipping the loop over the head briefly, treat, remove.
- Wings In → Slowly guide wings through loops one at a time, reward.
- Short Wear → Let the bird wear it briefly indoors, increase duration over days/weeks.
- Indoor Sessions → Encourage recall and flight with the harness on.
- First Outdoor Exposure → Just sit outside with the harness on — don’t fly yet.
- Controlled Outdoor Flight → Start with leash extension or flight line for semi-free-flight. Build confidence gradually.
Recommended Harness Gear:
- Aviator Leash Extension → For safe extra range.
- Aviator Flight Line → Semi-free-flight practice outdoors.
- Trainer’s Pouch → Hands-free, fast rewards.
- Easy Perch Holder → Portable outdoor “home base.”
Tip: You don’t need them all. Start with just the harness — add gear if you want more freedom or convenience later.
Resources
Remember: Harnesses aren’t for every bird — and that’s okay. If yours doesn’t take to it, there are other safe ways to train for outdoor confidence.
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Harness Training 101: Step-by-Step Guide
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