Showing posts with label Parrots. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Parrots. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Introducing The AFRICAN GREY Parrot

Tobias being cute :)
African Grey Parrot - Photo   by   ♡Blackangelツ 
In the case of the African Grey Parrot, what it lacks in brilliant plumage it more than makes up for with its friendly nature and astounding ability to mimic sounds and speech. So much so, in fact, that it has become one of the most popular parrot breeds of all.

The African Grey is considered to be one of the most intelligent species of bird. Astoundingly, not only can they mimic speech, but they can actually construct sentences! Beginning from the time they are one year old, they can learn to repeat music and singing patterns, they can imitate pet sounds and noises around the home like the doorbell or the telephone, and they can even imitate accents. They may even growl if they feel threatened. Since these parrots will repeat anything they hear, they do not need to be taught one word at a time the way many other parrots need to be painstakingly trained.

A bird this smart, however, doesn't like to be left alone and will get bored very quickly. When it does, this relatively quiet bird will let you know with a loud squawk or whistle. For the African Grey, plenty of toys and interaction with those around them will keep them engaged and happy. Keep in mind that they do need a lot of exercises: they should be allowed to fly around for at least an hour every day. Since this species loves to pluck themselves by way of grooming, it is a great idea to give them a bath or to mist them at least twice a week. This will help to eliminate any irritants or dust that could cause them discomfort.

African Grey parrots are usually 12 or 13 inches long from their head to their tail. Their grey feather color is what gives the bird its name. Though grey, the parrot is not considered to be less appealing. In fact, the African Grey is widely regarded as one of the most attractive species of parrot due to this wonderfully simple coloring. Different sub-species of the African Grey may have red or maroon tails. Their feathers often display a white edging. Around their eyes can be seen a beautiful area colored white or pale pink. The use their strong jaws to chew on many things, including their perch, their toys, or your furniture! Always bear in mind that if you allow your parrot to fly around the house, it is a very good idea to make sure you are there to supervise, and always be careful of any valuable items.

A generally strong bird, the African Grey is vulnerable to calcium deficiency so their diet should be well thought out, especially for younger birds and chicks. You may think that calcium can be given using dairy products. However, parrots cannot digest dairy products like cheese, milk, or yogurt. Not only will these make them very ill... they may even kill them.


The African Grey is a social bird that generally behaves well with other parrots and birds. In the wild, they may be seen in flocks numbering more than a thousand birds. An unfortunate Black Market in African Grey parrots has cropped up given how popular these birds are as pets, and given the sheer size of the African Grey population in their native Africa. The birds are captured and then falsely sold as tame pets, after being housed and transported in terrible conditions. Buying from a reputable dealer will help stop these practices. If you would rather take in an older bird, there are many excellent Parrot sanctuaries and rescue centers that can help you find the perfect pet.

The African Grey parrot is a wonderful bird that can live to 50 years or more. Due to their affectionate nature and intelligence, they are known to bond warmly with their owners and those who handle them often. The African Grey is truly a wonderfully appealing parrot.

    Chris Boshoff - Article Source: GoArticles    


Thursday, September 6, 2018

All About SENEGAL PARROTS

Image from page 7 of "Bird notes" (1902)
Senegal Parrot - Photo  by  Internet Archive Book Images
If you are looking for a pet parrot that is best for the whole family, then you must consider a Senegal parrot. Most pet lovers and parrot pet traders agree that Senegal parrots have been popular family pet birds because of their lively and engaging personality.

But, before you finally purchase a Senegal parrot and make it a family pet bird, you must be knowledgeable about its traits and characteristics for you to have an idea how it should be taken care of.

According to parrot experts, the Senegal parrot one of the best-known members of the entire Poicephalus family for having compact and cuddly physical traits and a very playful attitude. Frequently seen in pet shops around the United States and Europe, Senegal parrots originated in the north central part of Africa.

Unlike other parrot species, parrots possess an entirely different nature which is extremely playful, gentle and sweet in temperament that is perfect for its charming personality, cleverness, clear speech, and manageable behavior. They are also quieter but are good talkers if taught and trained properly. Since they possess much tamer nature, are known to be less demanding especially if they are given daily attention and interaction.

SENEGAL PARROT 101

Senegal parrots are the most commonly kept Poicephalus birds there are. Identified for being a green bird with a gray head, Senegal parrots are famous for sporting different colored underparts, either its belly or vest with a bright yellow iris.

Senegal parrots can be divided into three sub-species that can easily be characterized by the color of their bellies as well as by their following names that include Poicephalus senegalus senegalus hailing from Southern Mauritania, southern Mali to Guinea and from the Island of Los, these are known as the nominate race and has a yellow belly; Poicephalus senegalus versteri originates from the Ivory Coast and Ghana east to western Nigeria and has red belly; and Poicephalus senegalus mesotypus coming from Eastern and Northeastern Nigeria, northern Cameroon into south-western Chad and has an orange belly.

These parrots live in moist woodlands and on the edges of the grasslands. They primarily feed on seeds, fruits, and grains particularly the seed of locust beans and newly formed buds of various trees.

A Senegal parrot's diet should consist of a good quality seed mixture of nuts, seeds, lean meat, biscuits, fruits, and vegetables either raw or cooked. Vitamin and mineral supplements are also given to meet the nutritional need of the parrot.


Hand reared Senegal parrots are the most suitable pets because they are small enough to handle and can be placed in a medium-sized parrot cage. These should be kept in cages or aviaries where they can eat and sleep. Preferably, Senegal parrots should be housed in relatively small cages manufactured for "small birds" and should be provided with lots of toys, T-stands, and swings.

Senegal parrots are not as great talkers like the African Grey parrots but have the ability to learn a vocabulary depending on the owner's patience to teach. Senegals can be bought from $149 to $500.

    By Low Jeremy
    Low Jeremy has been a hobbyist writer for the past 3 years. During this free time, he contributes informative articles on various topics like health, electronics and gadget reviews for websites.
    Article Source: EzineArticles


Friday, August 31, 2018

All The Secrets About The Famous BLUE PARROTS

ARA - Blue Parrot - Photo: Pixabay
There are many different types of blue parrots in the world but perhaps the most popular one is the Blue-crown parrot. They are native to South America as many blue parrots are, more particularly they are most often found in Venezuela, Columbia, and Brazil. They are treasured creatures in their native countries where they spend their time deep inside the jungles of the Amazon like so many other breeds of parrots.

Rarely does someone have the opportunity to catch sight of these birds, let alone any species of blue parrots, as their numbers are quickly diminishing due to poachers capturing them and selling them on the black market? Blue parrots can fetch a sizable price due to their ability to be quickly trained and keep as an exotic pet.

Sexing
So how can you tell the difference between male and female blue parrots? Well, blue-crown parrots all contain a white patch around their two eyes and in the male tends to usually have a much larger patch than the female. The other way to tell the difference between the sexes is to take a look at the length of the cere feathers. The male also has much longer feathers than the females on this are of their bodies.

Lifespan
The average lifespan of most blue parrots is unknown however they are more than likely to live for up to 40 years, sometimes longer in the wild like most parrots. Why is this? Well, most parrots need constant active social interaction which is usually much lower when kept in captivity.

Easy To Train?
That's right most blue parrots are trained very easily and have been well regarded as one of the most intelligent parrots They especially excel in the area of talking and have been knowing to be able to put together whole sentences which aren't too common among parrots. If you have a blue parrot yourself, you will notice that they can be very affectionate towards their owners. They are also known to be protective at times and unless you are a usual visitor to the home of a blue parrot, you better watch out because they can bite and bite hard!

How Much Do They Cost?
You'll be lucky the purchase a blue parrot for under $300 and if you do, make sure you know where it is coming from as many of these birds are sold on the black market and you may notice that it has just come from the wild. If this happens to you, contact your local conservation center and explain to them what happened. More than likely they will take your parrot and attempt to rehabilitate it.



Tuesday, August 28, 2018

A SENEGAL PARROT As A Pet

English: Senegal Parrot Deutsch: Mohrenkopfpapagei
Senegal Parrot Deutsch: Mohrenkopfpapagei (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Of all of the parrot species, the Senegal parrot is one of the most colorful of the parrot families. They are relatively easy to breed and are often bred in captivity for the pet trade since it is no longer legal to capture export or import parrots of any species due to conservation concerns.

They are not as large as other parrot species and are not as loud which makes them more popular for people who have limited space or who live in apartments or condominiums where disturbing the neighbors would be an issue.

They are quite long-lived in the wild and in captivity so a person should make sure they want to make a long commitment to caring for a parrot before buying one. Acclamation into the environment of the owner can be quite tricky if there are multiple people in the family. The parrot should be introduced to as many people as possible and moved to different environments or rooms within the home so that it does not become permanently attached to any one member of the family. 

If this happens the parrot may become jealous of the attention of other family members and may act out with misplaced aggression. By spreading its time equally among family members and among rooms in the home it is not as likely to bond to one single person or one single place and acclimation will become much more smooth and desirable for all.

As with any pet, research is needed to make sure that you can properly handle and care for your pet. If you decide to get a pair for possible breeding purposes it may be difficult to tell the males from females based on their appearance alone. It will be up to a professional breeder or pet store person to help you determine that you have a pair that is suitable for mating. Research for building a nesting box and providing for the female and the young until they are taken from the parents at approximately 12 weeks of age is imperative.



Senegal parrots are not as well-known for being talkers as other species such as the African Greys but are still quite elegant in the number of sounds and whistles they can produce. As with other parrot species, because of their intelligence, they need to have interaction and distraction to keep them from becoming bored because boredom can turn to depression and death in Senegal parrots due to aggression against the cage, injury to itself, or refusal to eat until it dies.



Sunday, August 12, 2018

ECLECTUS PARROT - General Health

English: Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus). F...
Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus). 
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

While Eclectus parrots are very hardy birds, there are a number of health-related points you should know about to ensure the best of health and longevity of your bird.

The basic needs of Eclectus parrots apart from daily socialization with other birds and humans consists of three things: Natural foods, pure water, and plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. It has been proven again and again that this combination results in birds with the finest of health.

The best form of nutrition comes from providing a diet rich in variety, and while vitamin and mineral supplements are good to help boost nutrition, they should never be the bird's main source of nutrition. Eclectus parrots love fruits and vegetables, some favorites being mangoes, pomegranates, apples, carrots, bell peppers, lettuces and other green vegetables.

Only pure water should be provided for your Eclectus parrot since much of today's tap water has many additives and birds can be much more sensitive to these toxins than humans are. Water bowls should be cleaned and refilled with fresh water each day. Washing bowls and crocks in a mild solution of vinegar water will help eliminate potentially harmful bacteria that could make your bird sick.

Exercise is very important for your parrot to obtain optimum health. Exercise can be provided in a number of ways. Toys that provide interest involving beak, claw, and mental stimulation may be purchased at pet shops and online. A general rule of thumb is 'bigger is better' as long as the toy is safe and size-appropriate for your bird. For a hanging toy (one that clips to the inside top of the cage, or hangs from a toy stand), dimensions not exceeding 10" x 18" should be sufficient.

If you follow this basic information for your Eclectus parrot and keep yourself educated, you can help ensure your bird a long, happy, healthy life. Remember to always consult your veterinarian for any questions you may have concerning your parrot's health.



Wednesday, August 8, 2018

CAIQUE PARROTS As Pets - 5 Reasons Caiques Make Excellent Companion Parrots

Black-headed Caiques. Pets held on hands.
Black-headed Caiques. Pets held on hands.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)


Caiques (pronounced khy-eeks) are brightly colored, energetic, and entertaining birds that are small when making comparisons in the parrot world, but have big personalities and a lot of love to give to their humans. Here are 5 reasons you can't go wrong when considering a Caique Parrot as a pet.

Colorful-The division of color on these birds is so striking it almost looks as if an artist used a paintbrush to execute it so perfectly. Black Headed Caiques (BHC) have black beaks and gray feet, shiny black heads, a festive and well-defined ban of orange around the neck area; their backs and tails are a velvety forest green, their legs, and feathers under the tail are orange, and their bellies are snowy white.

The White Bellied Caique (WBC) differs slightly in coloration with a light-colored beak, yellow head, green back, thighs, and wings with yellow coloring under the tail. It is slightly smaller and is not as common. There are no noticeable personality differences between species, and any differences are probably more attributable to the individuals.

Affordable-Prices for Caiques range between $500 and $1,000 USD with pet stores tending to be on the higher end of the scale. Check with an avian veterinarian or do a looking digging on the internet if you prefer to purchase from a breeder or adopt a slightly older bird. Learn as much as you can about the bird's history, spend time with it, and have it checked by a veterinarian before finalizing the adoption.

Great Personality-These are happy birds that, when healthy, are in constant motion. They love playing with their toys (and you should have a large variety) and with their humans. They are affectionate and tend to respond well to anyone who gives frequent attention. They need human interaction, and if you do not have the time to devote to them perhaps another pet would make a better choice. If you are thinking about having 2 to provide social interaction for each other, make sure they are compatible before bringing them home.

Whistle Happy Tunes-Even though they speech capability is not that of the African Grey, most are still able to speak with their high pitched voice and be understood. They also able to whistle and can learn songs that they hear. They tend to learn songs better if their human whistles the songs for them first.

Standard Diet-They love to eat and their food requirements are simple and uncomplicated. Daily offerings should include fresh fruits and vegetables, pasta, and table foods supplemented with a high-quality pellet mix; and fresh water should always be available. Avoid avocado, chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine as they are toxic to any bird. With proper care, these delightful little birds can live up to 30 years.



Tuesday, July 31, 2018

The Beauty of AFRICAN GREY PARROTS

A Congo African Grey Parrot in Herborn Bird Pa...
A Congo African Grey Parrot in Herborn Bird Park, Germany.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)


The African Grey is a wonderful, sensitive and highly intelligent bird. They require diligent owners and are a serious commitment. However, they are truly delightful and if approached with the correct understanding will make a lifelong companion.

Originating from Africa, there are two distinct types: the Congo African Grey and the Timneh African Grey. The Congo is the larger of the two, measuring 12-14 inches with a bright red tail. The Timneh is smaller, closer to 11-13 inches with a darker coloring and crimson tail. The Congo and the Timneh originate in different regions of Africa.

These highly intelligent parrots became famous from the cognitive studies of Dr. Irene Pepperberg. Dr. Pepperberg worked "Alex", a Congo African Grey. Alex was able to recognize and name more than 100 objects. He could label colors and count. Dr. Pepperberg worked with Alex for over 30 years. It is suggested these beautiful birds have the intelligence of a 5-year-old child. They are sensitive and emotional, resembling the emotions of a 2-year-old child. They require mental stimulation as a 5-year-old child would. If bored or depressed they can be prone to feather plucking. In general, they are anxious and cautious in new situations.

They have a superior ability to mimic humans, often in the person's voice. Usually, they will start speaking after 1 year of age and can often learn several new words weekly. They form strong attachments to their human "flock" and often have favorites. They have been said to be less cuddly than other species, yet loving and loyal. They are the professors of the bird flock and require as much attention as other species.

They enjoy games that require mental stimulation such as foraging for "hidden treasures" of toys and treats. If one chooses to home an African Grey, socialization of people and new surroundings, mental activities and emotional nurturing is very important. They cannot sit quietly in a cage, as one would not ask a 5-year-old child to. But the rewards of the Grey are immense. They are very "human-like" and very special.

African Greys have a lifespan of approximately 60 years and require a serious commitment due to their highly intelligent and sensitive nature. Hardy birds, they require a balanced diet supplemented with fresh fruit and vegetables. If making a commitment to an African Grey, it is highly suggested to annually visit an avian vet for complete check-ups, nutritional guidance, and blood work. Birds by nature will hide illnesses for a long time. Often once the illness is suspected it is too late.



Friday, July 27, 2018

How Much Is That ECLECTUS PARROT In The Window?

Eye & Ruffled Feathers
Our Eclectus parrot Phoenix just after ruffling her feathers scratching - Photo   by sufw 
Of more than 350 species of parrot, the Eclectus is considered by many to be the most beautiful. Eclectus are not just beautiful, however. They are also great talkers, repeating many words and phrases, and singing songs. If you have more than one Eclectus, they will sing and talk to one another as well as to their human friends.

Which Eclectus Do You Want?

Eclectus parrot prices differ according to the Eclectus you want.

The Eclectus belongs to the genus Eclectus and the species Roratus. There are 7 to 9 subspecies within the species. The three most popular are:

1. The Red-sided Eclectus from New Guinea, to the north of Australia. It is the most popular Eclectus in Australia, and highly popular in other lands as well. With plumage that seems to be hair rather than feathers, the male sports emerald green with blue in the bend of his wings When he flies, red flashes from beneath the wings. The female has a red head, maroon body, deep blue to purple breast feathers, and a tail that ends in a pale red-pink to orange.

2. The Solomon Eclectus native to Bismarck and the Solomon Islands, north of Australia. Males have yellow-tinted green bodies with dark blue wings, edged in green. The upper side of the tail is green with yellow edging. The underside of the tail is black, edged with a thin band of pale yellow. Females have stunning red plumage, with dark blue under-wings and a band of dark blue running to the nape. Wings are the same as the male – red-tails have pale edging.

3. The Vosmaeri Eclectus native to Moluccas, Indonesia. Males have a bright green body, with oval patches of bright red on upper thighs, widening across the body when wings open. The tail is blackish blue, tipped with pale yellow. Females have bright lavender breasts, with red bodies and heads. The nape of the neck, upper mantle, and wing bend show deep lavender. The wings are deep red, tails cadmium-yellow beneath, dark red on top, and a band of yellow.

General Pricing

Eclectus parrot prices usually range from the Solomon Eclectus at the low end to the Vosmaeri at the high end.

Breeder Eclectus Parrot Prices

As of the writing of this article (February 2007), Eclectus parrot prices ranged from $800 to $1,200 each. Sample Eclectus parrot prices are listed here:

1. Solomon Eclectus: $800, male or female
2. Red-sided Eclectus: $845, male or female
3. Vosmaeri Eclectus: $1,000 for a male, $1,200 for a female

All Eclectus parrot prices given are U.S. breeders, U.S. dollars.

“Bargain” Eclectus Parrot Prices

When is a bargain a bargain? Eclectus parrot prices can be lower on eBay or other online auction sites. You can also find lower Eclectus parrot prices in local newspaper classified ads. These carry no guarantee, of course, and the parrots may not be healthy.



Whatever the Eclectus parrot prices you find, you will want to be more careful than the buyer in this bit of humor.

The Multilingual Eclectus

A man passing a pet shop sees 3 beautiful Solomon Eclectus priced at $1,500.
He goes into the shop and asks, “Why such high Eclectus parrot prices?”

“Each of them speaks five languages,” says the salesman.

“Five languages!” exclaims the man. “Do they speak Yiddish?”

“Sure,” says the salesman.

The man looks at the Eclectus again. “My mother lives all alone in the Bronx,” he says, “and a bird would be good company for her,” He pays the $1,500, asks to have a parrot delivered to his mother, and goes on his way.

The next day, he calls his mother and asks, “Mom, how did you like the Eclectus parrot I sent you?”

“Oh son, it was delicious!” she says.

“What do you mean delicious?”

“I made soup out of it – came out great!”

“But mom, that parrot spoke five languages!”

“So, why didn't he say something?”

Hidden Eclectus Parrot Prices

Before you purchase, you should consider the fact that Eclectus parrot prices are only the beginning. You will also have the costs of a large cage, toys, food, and other needs. Hidden Eclectus parrot prices can mount swiftly.



Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Sleep - How Much Sleep Do Most PARROTS Need?

Sleeping African Gray Parrot, Melbourne Zoo March 2015
Photo by thomasswilliams
I, like most people, was first attracted to parrots because of the beautiful colors and the ability to mimic different sounds. The more sounds these beautiful beings were able to make it seemed the more attracted to them I had become. I am still amazed how smart these "Angels with Wings" really are.

One of the most crucial things for a pet owner to realize is the amount of uninterrupted sleep a parrot needs.


While most of the waking day is spent playing, grooming, foraging and finding interesting things to get into, the Parrots although not realized by most, do spend times asleep.

Two basic patterns of sleep are noted by these three elements:

1.) Patterns of the brain waves during different phases of sleep
2.) Eye movement
3.) Muscle activity

A.) Electroencephalography (EEG) - a test that measures and records the electrical activity of your brain.

B.) Electromyography (EMG) - a test that measures the electrical activity of muscles.

C.) Electrooculography ((EOG) - a test that measures eye movements.

These three testing procedures have been conducted on several species of parrots and parakeets, including the Half-moon Conure and the Budgerigars are known commonly as Budgie.

As in Humans, Birds have been found to have two major forms of sleep.

1) SWS - Shown in a test as slow high voltage brain waves. This stage of sleep appears to be the most important because of the restorative functions of the mind and body.

2) PS - (Paradoxical Sleep) in test show low voltage brain waves similar to those of being awake.

These low voltages are often associated with movement of the eyes (REM).

In humans, dreaming happens during the Paradoxical Sleep stage. It has been suggested that PS may be associated with brain development and learning.

Out of all the parrots studied PS stage was always preceded by SWS. It has also been noted that the Parrots spent a shorter time in PS stage than most mammals or any other avian species. It should be noted, the studies could be ruled inconclusive since the test was conducted under lighted conditions. Although even under lighted conditions it was found that the Half-Moon Conure spent 57% of a 24hour period in a sleep state (SWS or PS).Budgies were 38% of the same time in a sleep state.



An interesting sleep stage was also recognized in the parrots which are referenced as Unihemispheric slow-wave sleep (USWS). Which is the ability to sleep with one half of the brain while the other half remains alert? This is often associated with migrating birds that travel long distances is believed to go into this form of sleep. This form of sleep is also a form of protection while one part of the brain sleeps the other part is alert for predator detection.

In the wild, Parrots normally sleep in groups known as flocks. The flocks are typically found sleeping in close proximity of the feeding areas.

Parrots are much like people when it comes to sleep. Without the proper amount of sleep, parrots can be irritable. Several behavior issues can be associated with the lack of sleep which could include biting, plucking, screeching, throwing food and being generally destructive.

How much sleep does a Parrot need?

A general recommendation is at least 10 to 12 hours of darkness for rest.

When preparing for spaces for your new Parrot keep in mind of the need for quite a dark atmosphere during sleeping hours.

Keeping in mind of your Parrots need for sleep will help you and your Parrot have a more fulfilling companionship.



Wednesday, July 11, 2018

The Basics of PARROT CAGES

People who decide to have pets at home should provide suitable housing for the animal. This means getting one that is proportional to the size and type of parrot because this will greatly affect the lifespan of the bird. 

It is advisable to get one that is very large. Most of these birds prefer to climb, stretch and play so there must be enough space for the parrot to do this inside instead of it just sitting on a perch located inside the cage.

The housing should have horizontal bars. This will make it easy for the parrot to grab hold onto the sides whenever it feels like climbing inside the cage. The distance between each bar should also be checked so that the bird will not injure itself during this activity. 

Though its true there are some cheap cages that can be found in the market, the owner must not get this based on these criteria alone. This is because the material used in making the cage will not be of good quality that may also pose a danger for the parrot. It is better than to get an expensive one made of stainless steel or powder coated since these are not toxic to the pet. 

Conventional bird cages have doors and latches. People who decide to get a parrot should avoid using this because it can cause injury to the creature’s beak, head, neck or wing. The best to get those are those that are detachable since this has been proven to be safe. 

Most animals produce waste. The ideal carrot cage should have a pull-out tray in the bottom so the owner can just take this off and wash it before putting it back inside. This is better than going inside and to clear the housing of droppings, which will take a long time to clean. 

The parrot cage should come to have a designated area where the bowl will be placed. Some manufacturers sell this with a plate inside while others have to be purchased separately. This should also be removable because this needs to be cleaned twice a day before and after feeding. 

The perch where the parrot sits must be near where the food is located. This will make it easy for the bird to go to when it is time for feeding. 

Having a pet big or small is an enormous responsibility. The individual should have a spacious and safe cage to enjoy many years with the parrot. 



Friday, July 6, 2018

Learn All The Secrets Of The AFRICAN GREY PARROT

Tobias and his friend apple :-D
Photo   by ♡Blackangelツ 
The African grey parrot is a medium-sized parrot that originates from the central parts of Africa. They are said to be perhaps the most intelligent of all parrots, with an adept ability to mimic human words and expressions. This is the reason why they are very popular as pets in modern-day households. Most African grey parrots are predominantly grey all over with a small color difference on their tails, usually maroon or a darker shade of grey.

One incredible characteristic that the African grey parrot carries is its incredible ability to solve even the most complex of problems. Very few parrot species have this kind of ability and it is because of this that the African grey stands out above the rest. This characteristic is tied in with their talking ability as they can learn to mimic any sound just by listening and applying this to their own vocal patterns.

Every African grey parrot has the potential to mimic almost every sound that hears, however some more than others. Parrots that are left alone in their cages with no way to stimulate their brains generally learn to talk or mimic the sounds they hear around them. Parrots that are handled often by humans have no need for the extra stimulation that sound imitation provides them so they often learn very few sounds. This doesn't mean people should neglect their parrots for the sole reason of getting them to talk. There are different training manuals to help parrots learn the basics of sound imitation.

One notorious trait that the African grey parrot has is its feather plucking habit. This can make for a very messy and disease-ridden cage and therefore owners are advised to clean the parrot cage once every two or three days. The reason why a parrot plucks his or her feathers is that it is boring and needs a source of stimulation. If owners spend enough time with their parrot every day, perhaps one or two hours, it will have no need to pluck its feathers as it is getting enough stimulation from the human presence around it.


It is commonly known that an African grey parrot can become almost fully attached to one human and therefore become aggressive towards other people. This trait just proves one thing, that African grey parrots are the perfect companion. You could perhaps say that they are the new mans best friend!

    Author: Dane Stanton - Article Source: GoArticles


Monday, June 18, 2018

The AMAZON PARROT and How They Are Amazing

Yellow-Headed Amazons - Photo: Flickr
The Yellow-headed Amazon (Amazona oratrix), also known as the Yellow-headed Parrot, Double Yellow-headed Amazon, etc., is an endangered Amazon parrot of Mexico and northern Central America. Measuring 38–43 cm (15–17 in) in length, it is a stocky short-tailed green parrot with a yellow head. It prefers to live in mangrove forests or forests near rivers or other bodies of water. It is often considered a subspecies of the Yellow-crowned Amazon. It is a popular pet and an excellent talker. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I am going to introduce you to my Red-Lored Amazon Parrot, Gonzo. He is the mildest in temperament for an Amazon Parrot. He loves to be around people maybe not very cuddly, but his personality outshines that. He is very intelligent and it attentive when being spoken to. He understands you and responds to you when he is told not to do something. He is much like a dog and very loyal. I am very fortunate to have an Amazon-like Gonzo. 

Now we are going to talk about the genus of all Amazon parrots. There are about 30 different species within the Amazon genus. They are all on the CITES index, which means that Amazon parrots, like Macaws, Pionus, Caique parrots all protected exportation out of the wilds like Brazil, Central and South America and the likes of Mexico. 

On what is called the CITES Treaty; CITES stands for Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna. The CITES also known as the Washington Convention was created by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It was adopted in 1963, the convention then opened for signatures in 1973 and entered into force on July 1, 1985. 

I ask that if you do decide on an Amazon parrot be very careful as to where you purchase your Amazon from. They are an endangered species and they need to be protected by people, like you and I. That is why I highly recommend getting a hand-fed baby or adopting an older parrot. The difference between a wild caught and a domestic parrot is the band they have on their leg; an open band means they have been taken out their country of origin and a closed band means they were hatched and hand-fed in the country you reside in. Many breeders do band their babies for statistical reasons, by keeping clean bloodlines and knowing which aviary the baby came from. If a breeder does not band their babies I would be wary of that purchase. Remember that if one-day certain species of Amazon's may become extinct in the wild, it will be you and I who not let them be forgotten; as they will be our domestic companions.

An Amazon parrot's lifespan, with them being healthy is around 50 years or even longer as long as they have had good nutrition and have been well-taken care with their needs in mind. They are a medium size bird about 10-20 inches from head to toe. Amazon parrots have short stubby tails. Their primary colors are green feathers with coloring on their head and/or their face. Some can be very colorful to just a multitude of greens.

Diet

An Amazon parrot's diet, you have to be careful as they have a tendency to become overweight with lack of exercise from being in a cage for a number of hours a day. They eat seed, pellets, fruits, veggies and some may like human food. I highly recommend putting a pellet in their diet. It has nutrients not found in seed. Fresh fruits and veggies are very important as they contain phytonutrients (antioxidant pigments), that is not found in seed and pellets. Your Amazon needs nutritional food and also a variety of other foods because as they become bored, they need the variety for psychological enrichment. Food is mealtime but it is also playtime. Like your two year old child, mealtime is fun time. The fruits and veggies that are rich in vitamin A are dark green leafy veggies, carrots (the baby ones whole), mangos and sweet potatoes.

The reason for vitamin-enriched foods is because Amazon's are prone to this deficiency. All sorts of fruits and veggies can be fed. The fruits you can feed them are apples, pears, berries, mango, papaya, banana, grapes, oranges, tangerines, tangelos. The veggies you could feed them are whole baby carrots (something they can play with), cucumbers, zucchini, red peppers and chilies, even dandelion and chickweed (make sure they are not sprayed with pesticides). Gonzo loves all nuts, though Amazons are known to get obese from fatty food, he also has an indulgence for tortilla chips and ramen noodles. DO NOT feed them avocado as it is toxic to them. Make sure they have clean and fresh water every day. Amazon's like to dunk their food, so you may have to change it a couple of times a day. That is to avoid any bacterial infections. 

Cage

Their bird cage should be as followed by the cage guidelines when you are buying a cage for them. Remember twice the width so they may spread their wings and 1 1/2 times in length for their tail. Bar spacing needs to be 5/8 inch to one inch apart. There need to be both horizontal and vertical bars to climb around on. The cage Gonzo has is 24x20x27. 

They need plenty of toys to play with. Make sure the bowls are secured to the cage because Amazons are renowned throwers. I recommend an extra bowl for treats, fruits, and veggies; besides their water and food bowls. 

You need to wash their food and water bowls daily. Clean their cage at least once a week, by washing everything down with water and a small amount of dish detergent. Make sure it is well rinsed off when you put your parrot back into the cage after cleaning. Their trays can become quite messy as everything goes on the floor or below them. They do not have best table manners. I like to change their trays with a newspaper every time I feed them. The newspaper is nontoxic and cheap to get. I do not recommend pine sawdust or ground shells. There is a chance of getting a bacterial infection or them eating it and getting sick. 

Illness

We have spoken of bacterial infections and you are wondering "How do I know if my parrot is not feeling well?" The signs can be different so watch them carefully. Watch your parrot carefully because parrots differ from one another when there are signs of illness. If their demeanor changes from lively to sullen, ruffled plumage, resting often with their head tucked into their back (keep in mind that your parrot may prefer to sleep this way), consistent sneezing (yes parrots do sneeze). Now the most noticeable ones to watch for are if they do sneeze and discharge is coming from their nostrils, cloudy eyes and any change in their droppings (feces). I recommend you to have a good avian vet specialist, who you have a relationship with; that knows your parrot so you may call them after hours for any potential issues that should arise.

Gonzo

Gonzo is not caged and we do not have to be subjected to the aggression that Amazons are known for. The more your parrot is out and interacting with the family they are more likely to be friendlier and not so aggressive. Amazon's can be the most aggressive of all parrot species; however, this varies from Amazon to Amazon. Our Red-Lored is one of the mildest and more adaptable to the family life than other known species. These issues can be alleviated by not caging your parrot for excessive periods of time. Gonzo is not caged; he hangs on top of his cage and playpen, watching the day goes by. This also gives him a chance for exercise and prevents the obesity Amazons are known for. Please do not keep them on their perch in the middle of their cage; as they will appear like a stuffed parrot and when approached will bring out their aggressive side. 

Behavior 

How your Amazon parrot behaves. Many are very loyal, like a dog. Extremely intelligent and playful; you can teach them to play basketball and roller-skate; these are typical toys that can be purchased. They are outstanding talkers and yes, even sing opera. Amazon parrots love classical and traditional anthem music. Keep in mind that each species of parrots are individualistic and have differences so you may get an Amazon parrot who does not sing or talk. In our case, our Red-Lored does not sing nor talk, but is fantastic just the way he is. Never get a parrot expecting it to talk, get it because you want a lifelong companion. Amazon parrots are great screamers and vocalization, not as loud as a cockatoo or macaw though. They can be quite noisy at times, especially when the sun comes up and goes down. When it is breeding season and they hit puberty, about 5 or 6 though it could be later, they can turn into Jekyll and Hyde. Ride it out, this your companion you made, it is a commitment to for life.



Amazon parrot loves to bathe with a mister or in the shower, it is a fun time and it can be quite comical. Their world is about playing. May it be with food to the toys in their cage; they see the world as an adventure playground.

Keeping this all in mind; you will have a happy family when you understand your new found companion and their idiosyncrasies. Gonzo is everything that one that anyone could ever ask for. He is beautiful, great disposition in life and shows us how to take one day at a time. We are grateful for Gonzo; hopefully, after you have done all your research and made that commitment as to what kind of parrot you decided on, you have decided on an Amazon parrot.

Peter has four very proud parrot species from all over the world. We have lived with our four parrots for over 15 years. All of our parrots are domestically born. The joy we share with them is immeasurable.





Friday, June 15, 2018

The BLUE-HEADED PARROT - pionus menstruus

Pionus menstruus.jpg
"Pionus menstruus" by Daniel de Duarte Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

The blue-headed parrot (Pionus menstruus) is one of eight species of Pionus parrot native to Central America and South America. Measuring around 11 inches this bird's lifespan is around 25 years. Don't get muddled between this species and blue-fronted Amazon parrots as they are quite different.

The blue-headed parrot is native to South America and Central America and can be found in the America-Amazon basin from Costa Rica to Panama. 

Some good places to spot them in their native habitat are Brazil, Bolivia, Central America, Costa Rica, Trinidad, and Venezuela. In these countries, they live in forests and some more open locations. They tend to live in groups, often roosting in palm trees, and are a sociable bird.

Whilst their name derives from a distinctive blue head this parrot has a number of subtle color markings. The blue of the head extends some way down the chest to the green body. When examined closely it can be seen that they have red coloring beneath their tail feathers and some dashes of yellow on the wing coverts. The mandible (lower jaw area) is black but has reddish areas at the sides. You will also note some reddish feathers around the ceres (a soft, fleshy swelling on the top of the beak).
Of the parrots commonly kept as pets, the blue-headed is one of the most affectionate and calm. With dedicated coaching, they can also be reared into reasonable mimics. However, they are not the best mimics, and in fact on the plus side are quite quiet for parrots.

The blue-headed parrot is comfortable in both an aviary and indoors, but if you have a non-captive bred specimen then the acclimatization process can take up to two years.



For this bird grit and cuttlefish bone are good supplements to the standard parrot diet of parrot mix, fruit, and greens. In the wild, they enjoy seed as the staple food.

One health issue to watch out for with this species is that these generally healthy birds have a disposition to aspergillosis. This fungal disease is marked by poor breathing. In addition to this, a swollen eye ring can be a sign of a nasal blockage. Finally, the Pionus can exhibit flaky bills, but this is just a sign of intensive use rather than something to be concerned over. If you breed your pet you can expect a clutch of three to five eggs.