I'm curious if anyone has used this method for a biting bird?

To me it sounds a little harsh, but I've been working on step up with my 3 year old B&G for a few montsh now and he's a "nipper". I've tried positive/negative reinforcements.. it seems nothing works, he loves doing it. I've tried letting him bite (which, he doesn't BITE, he pinches but he will do this over and over again, like it never bores him).

The only time I've gotten him on my hands is when I took him to get his beak and nails trimmed (they were too sharp, especially for trying to get him on my arm). HE was petrified so I just scooped him off the floor. The breeder told me to try scooping him off the floor at home as well, but my whole house seems to be his "territory" so he goes back to his cocky ways.

Anyway, I've been reading on how things to do with helping step ups and the biting issue, and on a few sites they recommended put a rubber band on. To me, that doesn't sound good especially since they use their beak for stability sometimes.. however I can see the plus side to it.

Anyone ever try it? Opinions? Or suggestions on trying to get his nipping habit out of the way?

Are you saying that they are recommending putting the rubber band around the beak?? Wow. I'm no expert, but I'd never do that, and nobody better ever try it with one of my birds! Maybe I'm out of touch on this, but I'm stunned anyone would suggest this. Could I ask where you saw this?

That's what I was wondering also. That sounds like cruelty to me.

Amberr I would continue with positive reinforcement training. I highly recommend Barbara Heidenreich's methods. You can subscribe to her magazine and also get her videos. She also does Workshops and there may be one near your area in the future.

Good Bird Inc. - Fostering the human/animal bond with positive reinforcement

Amber; please do not do that with a rubber band unless, you want the bird to hate you.
Are you afraid of him? Birds will sense if you are and will bite to show they are the boss. I agree...positive reinforcement is the most likely to work.