Want a TALKING BIRD? Learn Which Birds Love to Talk

Sun Conure - Photo: Pixabay

Spending a few minutes chatting with a talking bird can brighten your day, and adding a bird to your family will provide a fun opportunity to enjoy the bonds that form when your feathered companion can talk. Many types of birds love to talk and their styles can vary according to their species as well as their temperament. While some birds may be able to memorize a few words, others can carry on full conversations. Here are the top pet bird types that have the ability to learn to talk along with their defining characteristics to help you decide which one will best fit your lifestyle.

Converse With a Conure

Conures are known for having the smallest vocabulary out of the parrot family. However, what they lack in words, they make up for in personality. Conures have a loud, attention-getting voice, and they sound more like a bird than other species. Although they can reproduce the human voice to some degree, you may also hear them chatter in bird talk while maintaining a human-like rhythm. They also have a surprisingly strong ability to mimic many different kinds of sounds, and your conure can keep you in giggles as they sneeze, chortle and chuckle.

Query a Quaker

Quakers have tons of personality and many bird lovers claim that their quaker can respond as if they understand the entire conversation. Perhaps this is due to their impeccable timing, which indicates that they may have some understanding of the intricacies of human language. For example, you may find your quaker telling you "good night" as you turn off a light, or they may say "thank you" when you give them some food. Quakers are full of surprises and this is one talking bird that can keep the one-liners coming.

Babble with a Budgie

Wiki CC

Budgies often get overlooked when it comes to talking birds, but according to the Guinness Book of World records, a budgie has earned the distinction of being "The Most Talking Bird" with a vocabulary of more than 1700 words. If you are considering getting a budgie, then be sure it is a male since females do not talk. Additionally, budgies pick up new words from their environment and are constantly adding to their vocabulary. Try leaving the radio or television on during quiet periods of the day and you will be amazed at how much your budgie can learn to say.

Gab with an African Grey

African greys are quieter than a conure, yet they also have the ability to reproduce different voices depending upon whom they are mimicking. For example, your African grey may sing a song in the voice of your favorite musical artist, or they could squawk "hello" in your kid's voice so well that you think they are in the room. As you teach your grey to talk, keep in mind that they learn words faster when emotions are attached to them. So, get excited when you tell them hello or call them a pretty bird.

Talking birds are a great addition to any home, and you can spend hours training your bird to communicate effectively. Whether you prefer a chatterbox or an occasional bit of birdie wisdom, there is a type of talking bird that will fit your preferences. Just remember that talking to your bird frequently is the best way to expand their vocabulary which means that you can get started from the moment you bring your new bird home.

By Genie Fletcher - Article Source: EzineArticles

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AFRICAN GREY PARROT- Psittacus erithacus

African Grey Parrot - Psittacus erithacus

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PARROTLETS - Tiny Birds with a Big Attitude

Photo  by BLW Photography 

Parrotlets, as the name suggests, are tiny parrots. It is, by the way, generally pronounced parrot-lets although some people insist that the "t" in the parrot part is silent and call them parro-lets. Although only 4 to 4 1/2 inches tall, they are true parrots with big parrot personalities and intellect. They are known for being a little feisty, but if handled regularly they are loving pets. They are very playful and like their bigger cousins can be taught to do tricks and to talk.

There are several species of parrotlet, but probably the most common for pets are the Pacific parrotlets. The males are predominately green with blue markings on their wings, rumps and heads. Females lack the blue markings. Although green is their natural color there are a number of color mutations available. They include yellow, blue and white. Parrotlets, with good care, can live 20-30 years in captivity.

If their wings are left unclipped they are very nimble flyers. They can hover and dart and perform some impressive aerial acrobatics that you don't see with larger parrots. Unless you have a large, safe, secure environment for them to fly in, however, it is usually safer for them and easier for you if you keep them clipped.

To be happy and healthy you will have to provide them with a cockatiel sized cage with a few toys, fresh water and food. A mixture of small seeds, a few sunflower seeds and small pellets make a good diet. Supplement that with some fruits and vegetables. If you have one parrotlet, it will become bonded to you and should be quite friendly. If you have two or more they tend to be closer to each other, naturally, and usually are a little less tame. Make sure you get a parrotlet that was hand fed as a baby. Hand fed babies are much more socialized to people and make much better pets. Like any pet bird, they require regular attention, but they are good at amusing themselves for long periods of time while you are away.

Parrotlets are relatively quiet parrots. They chirp and chatter a lot but they don't scream like larger species. That, along with their small size makes them a good choice for apartments or other small living spaces. They are fun to own, fairly easy to maintain and can be great little companions. 

Author: Brett McGill - Article Source: GoArticles

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Busy Beak are Happy beaks

A pet Monk Parakeet (also known as the Quaker Parrot) with a colourful rope and toys. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Good toys have different shapes and textures for the bird to explore and destroy.  At least three toys should make a bird work for food. Working toys are toys that make them work for their treats or favored foods. Parrots in the wild will spend the majority of their waking hours, hunting and foraging. Toys stimulate their mind and help replicate actions they would execute in the wild. Proper toys and placement enhance a Psittacines life in captivity.

Parrots think they’re working for food while avicultural outsider sees birds playing with toys as birds; playing with bird toys. Your companion parrot is always thinking, and since nothing has changed in their minds, playing with toys is their job. It’s what Mother Nature gave them to survive, this need to forage. If you provide no means of foraging, your bird will seek other avenues. It may be furniture or personal effects. Usually, because they are easy and plentiful targets. It’s important to encourage your companion parrot to work for food because it’s a natural behavior. 

Three or four toys should be made of soft wood. Softwood allows you to push your fingernail in forming an indent.  

The next toys depend on the bird. Large birds like macaws and Cockatoos may have a huge appetite. Introduce hardwood toys into cages and perhaps toys with hard plastics so they can spend more time on the various pieces. Toys may be strung together with rope, leather, chain or a combination of materials.

The balance of toys should be easily shredded. Toys may be store bought or home made. Parrot toy parts are available and help keep toy making economical.  Softwood, paper, leather and other textures are important for the bird to explore and destroy

Introduce pieces of food like broccoli or corn, using one of many commercially available or home made toy holders. The food on the toy holder rewards them for playing.

The more textures, shapes, sizes and colors the better. Diversity is important because in the wild your birds eat a diverse diet. An eclectic selection of toys helps maintain your feathered companions interest.

 Watch a bird in its natural habitat and you’ll see them chewing soft bark and hard tree trunks. Toys made from compressed palm leaf or treated Yucca introduces hours of “pecking pleasure” Interactive toys made from Plexiglas are very effective at reducing birdie boredom.

The majority of toys should hang or be placed in the upper third of the cage. Introduce a few more to the middle third (without hampering access to food dishes) around a perch made from soft wood, comfortable to grasp depending on the size of the bird’s feet. The bottom third of the cage should remain relatively uncluttered to allow the bird to walk freely.

Spot-check toys and perches on a daily basis looking for frayed or sharp edges that may potentially harm your bird.

The more you change the toy and perch arrangement, the more you challenge your companion parrot. It helps them socialize and helps avoids “toy-phobia” 

Parrots can develop phobic reactions to new people, new furniture, and even new birds.

Toys from household items

Cornhusks

Adding machine tape

Toilet paper roll

Nuts hidden in nested paper cups

Phonebook slipped through cage bars

Wrapped straws – cable tied

Fortune cookies

Saltine cracker packet

Junk mail

Cotton swabs

Doggie rawhide 

Shoelaces strung with beads or Cheerios 

Branches with leaves           

Breakfast-food bowl with newspaper taped to the top

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Fact Sheet: ECLECTUS Parrot - Eclectus roratus

(Original Title: Rainforest Birds - Eclectus Parrot)

Eclectus Parrot - Photo  by warriorwoman531 

Bird Name:

Eclectus Parrot

Latin Name:

Eclectus roratus

Status:

Least Concern

Scientific Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Psittaciformes

Family: Psittacidae

Subfamily: Psittacinae

Tribe: Psittaculini

Genus: Eclectus

Species: E. roratus

General Information:

The Eclectus Parrot, also known as the Red-sided Eclectus, is a native species of northeastern Australia and the nearby Indonesian and Pacific islands. It is noted for its bright colored feathers, which are used by native tribes for decorations, and its talking ability. These attributes have made it a popular pet.

Physical Description:

On average it is about 14 inches in length and weighs in the range of 250 - 550 g. The Eclectus is known for its high degree of sexual dimorphism. The male is bright green with an orange-yellowish upper mandible and black lower mandible. Its sides and underwings are red, with blue on the sides of its wings. The female is mostly red with an all-black bill and purple on its belly. There are ten recognized subspecies of this bird, each with different color schemes compared to the nominate race.

Diet:

The Eclectus feeds on fruits, flowers, and seeds. Its digestive system is said to be extremely efficient in absorbing nutrients, and its intestinal tract is longer than average to accommodate the high fiber foods it requires.

Habitat:

The Eclectus occurs in rainforests and woodlands. Its range includes the Cape York Peninsula of Australia, the Solomon Islands, New Guinea, and several Indonesian islands, including the Molucca group. It nests in holes in trees, among rocks, and among termite mounds.

Reproduction:

A female Eclectus Parrot usually lays 2 eggs per clutch, and incubates them for about 30 days, during which time the male feeds her. The young fledge after about 70 - 80 days.

Eclectus are remarkable parrots and ideally suitable as a pet. Whenever taught properly, they're capable of cognitive behavior from a really young age.

The capability of the Eclectus to speak with humans is because of their extremely inquisitive nature, a feature highly linked to their existence within the rainforest cover. This habitat is really a rich environment needing a heightened visual as well as audible intellect to understand.

The Eclectus has developed the complex breeding tradition in this crowded vegetative environment, resulting in communal reproduction where uncles and aunties assist rear young inside a crèche -like situation. This discussing and caring function of the Eclectus makes them normally the perfect pet.

Whenever treated in a likewise caring and smart way they will rapidly learn to communicate cognitively. Eclectus additionally prefer a relaxed environment and have a powerful capability to notice modifications within their normal environment.

These highly smart birds are really cartoon and love to take part in daily activities and in doing this, will rapidly turn out to be familiar with a daily routine. Eclectus could be kept with other parrot species although it is very important that any brand new bird is launched within the correct style. This involves providing one-on-one attention with the unique bird and as almost as much as feasible, maintaining it's normal daily regimen.

Regular and constant training form a fundamental element of the Eclectus development along with the correct love as well as attention, this extremely intelligent bird makes a superb pet.

Even though Eclectus is a lovely chicken both physically as well as temperamentally, its personality previously has been misunderstood. This particular species has been characterized as boring, boring, lethargic, shy as well as stupid. What the informal observer is viewing, nonetheless, is the Eclectus Parrot's reaction to tension. When confronted by unfamiliar situations or even strangers they deep freeze and wait. Within familiar surroundings with folks they know they're garrulous, highly animated, interested, affectionate and fun.

All Eclectus subspecies share comparable behaviors and personas but with slight variations, for instance, Solomon Island, as well as New Guinea Eclectus, are a lot more docile compared to big domineering Australian Eclectus, so when hand-reared are considered to create the very best pets. Even though personality of chickens is distinct from penis Eclectus, it is questionable regardless of whether hens or pricks make much better pets.

The actual hen is a lot more intense than the cock. Whenever nesting, hand-reared hens tend to be much more aggressive than aviary-bred chickens. Both make similarly great pets, however, hens are a lot more likely to create hormonally related behavioral.

Eclectus possess a wide and most uncommon range of sounds, such as a soft bell or gong shades, coos, whistles, comic konks and squeals. The majority are really pleasant towards the ear. Nonetheless, they likewise have the capability to scream or even indulge in raucous screeching whenever frightened, disturbed or even excited. Eclectus Parrots additionally voice words and phrases really clearly.

By Tony Mandarich - Article Source: EzineArticles

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GREEN RINGNECK PARROTS Are The Happiest Birds In The World

"Rose-ringed Parakeet eating leaves" by JayDalal5 

Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons.

We have a green ringneck parrot, and Mr. Stan is the happiest bird in the world. If you are feeling down, just walk into the bird room and Mr. Stan will immediately cheer you up.

There are lots of different parrots breeds, but I'd like to visit with you about the green ringneck parrots. There are actually two types of green ringneck parrots, the African Ringneck and the Indian Ringneck. The African Ringneck is the smaller of the two breeds, but they both have the happiest personalities of any parrot alive. The African Grey may talk better, the Cockatoo might be better at solving puzzles, the Amazons may be larger and more brightly colored, but no other parrot in the world is as happy as the little green ringneck parrot.

All you have to do to get Mr. Stan squawking and singing is just stick your head in the room. If he doesn't see you because he is playing, just whistle, and the concert begins. He will get all of the other parrots bouncing and squawking within seconds.

We went to Pakistan several years ago for a construction project and found Mr. Stan in the local bird market. He was so friendly and enthusiastic that we brought him back to America when we came home. Don't try this yourself, the paperwork and expense of traveling with birds is not something that I recommend.

The Indian Ringneck is native to Pakistan and India, and it is common to see flocks in the hundreds. And the wild parrots are just as happy as Mr. Stan is.

At dusk, all of the birds would flock to the trees for the night, and there would be resounding chorus as all the different breeds of birds would start to bed down. But the loveliest chorus was the song from the little green ringnecks.

Parrot breeders have developed some color variations for the ringneck, and you can find them in blue and yellow. They have the same small body and the same enthusiastic personality, just a different color.

So, if you are looking for a parrot to take home, I would encourage you to think about the little green ringneck parrot, the happiest bird in the world.

By Leigh Allen - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Breeding the AFRICAN GREY PARROTS

Psittacus erithacus - (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

African Grey parrots are extremely famous birds and these birds are widely kept as pets. Breeding African grey parrots is a process that helps the bird keepers to increase their pet bird family without buying these precious birds from the market. People want to know that how they could breed African grey parrots? Successfully breeding African grey parrots needs care at so many levels and a careful bird keeper is capable of providing the comfort and environment required.

Careful Selection of Pair

The important thing about the breeding of African gray parrots includes the selection of a healthy couple for breeding purpose. Sometimes the birds kept together since their early days create a very strong bond and breeding these birds is very easy. Those people who buy a pair of birds from the market need to be sure about the gender of both birds. Sometimes a wrong pairing leads to confusions and later on, it is revealed that the selected birds are either both male or female.

Caging of Birds

The birds are far happier in the wild when they are capable of flying free. In the cage, the birds often do not live with that charm or excitement. It is a responsibility of the bird keepers to provide a very suitable cage for birds. The cage should not be highly confined that does not allow the wings flapping and minor flying. It is a basic right of the African grey birds to be able to stay in a cage which provides all the needs.

The placement of the cage is also very important. A happy bird would more likely to sing, interact and breed. The cage should be placed at a place which provides a view, sunlight and fresh air. The extremities of climates should be avoided by keeping the grey parrots warm or cold accordingly.

A Healthy Diet

The happy and healthy birds would breed faster. Diet plays an important role here. Therefore, the African greys should be provided with a suitable food to make them physically capable of reproducing in the best way possible. Mixed fruits, seeds and parrot palette food available commercially, are best for these birds.

Eggs and Hatching

The female bird once lays eggs, sits on them for a period of three weeks approximately. This period is important because the eggs should not be moved or touched by anyone else. Secondly, the bird should be provided with extra comfort and food to support her physical health.

The eggs hatch after six to seven weeks and during this time, the care is required to keep the cage's temperature balanced. The newborn chicks could not bear the low temperatures. It is good to provide them with warmth.

By Uzair M Sardar Purrsngrrs wants to help its readers to know more about the basic pet keeping concepts. Breeding the pet birds need a lot of care and attention due to the sensitive nature of the birds. Its good to know as much as possible before keeping the birds. It saves a lot of time and also helps to reduce any extra costs associated with bird keeping. http://purrsngrrs.com/african-grey-parrots-breeding/ Article Source: EzineArticles

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The Elegant ECLECTUS PARROT - 7 Reasons Why Eclectus Parrots Make Wonderful Pets

A pair of Eclectus Parrots (Eclectus roratus), the male (right - green colour) and female (left - red colour) of the same species at Singapore Zoo.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Eclectus Parrot is a medium size and strikingly beautiful member of the Parrot family ranging in size from just slightly more than a foot long. Unique in its plumage, not only is it physically beautiful but its intelligence and personality make it an excellent choice for a pet. Here are 7 reasons to choose an Eclectus as your pet bird.

Uniquely Different Look-

The texture of their feathers appear like suede on their heads, necks, breasts and stomachs because, rather than the usual feather construction, they are made of single hairs that make their overall plumage look wonderfully different from other Parrots. The tail feathers on both male and female have more of the usual feathering which appears more layered.

The male is very flashy with Kelly green over most of its body, brilliant red and blue feathers beneath the wings, an orange beak, and a sleeker body build. Not to be outdone, females have a redhead, with bluish-purple on their back, shoulders, and stomach, a black beak, and a stockier body. Since females tend to be more colourful, they are generally more expensive, but either sex makes handsome pets. And because of the striking differences between them, tests are rarely if ever needed to determine their sex.

Easy Going Personality-

They fit easily into a routine that is consistent and established early on when they arrive in your home and are more likely to accept various family members rather than bonding with one particularly caregiver. These traits can be helped along by having more than one person in the family interact on a regular basis. Some belief the male to be more gentle, less likely to become neurotic or aggressive because of hormonal changes, therefore making it easier to train. And while these generalizations may often apply, most of it will depend on your bird, as they each have their own personalities.

Eat a Varied Diet-

The Eclectus needs a large number of fruits, vegetables and fibre to provide proper nutrition that will keep them healthy. Sprouted seeds, soaked seeds, and a small portion of a high-quality pellet diet is a good base. (Avoid coloured pellets as they interfere with their ability to produced normal coloured feathers and beak.) Since they are prone to Vitamin A deficiency, dark green leafy vegetables, peppers, and cooked carrots and sweet potatoes are all great natural sources of Vitamin A. Fresh fruits should include but are not limited to apples, bananas, cantaloupe, pomegranate, mango, and watermelon. Organic produce is best.

And while many people see the large amounts of fruits and vegetables needed as a factor that makes them high maintenance, think of this diet instead as an excuse for you to eat healthier as well. Fats and proteins should be given in limited amounts (particularly for mature birds) as they increase cholesterol levels and arterial sclerosis and can contribute to an early death. And in many cases, that's true for the owner as well.

No Feather Dust-Unlike their dustier cousins, the Cockatoos and African Greys, the Eclectus does not produce feather dust because they are equipped with oil glands for preening. This makes them a good choice for those who are allergic.

Extremely Intelligent-

They are able to learn easily and are very sensitive to changes in their surroundings including their owner's moods. This instinctive intuitiveness makes them able to bond more closely with their family which is yet another reason that makes them wonderful companions.

Great Vocabulary-

Buying any bird in hopes that it will speak is a risky proposition at best. And even though these birds are well known for their ability to do so, the only way to make sure your bird will speak is to buy one that already does. With that said, they have a reputation for their fantastic ability to speak with great diction and mimic sounds with great accuracy.

Healthy and Long-Lived-

With a balanced diet, housing that allows them to move and exercise, care that keeps their stress levels low, and consistent maintenance that prevents disease, these parrots can live as long as 50 years!

By Debbie Davis - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Amazon Parrots - AMAZONS

Blue-Fronted Amazon Parrot - Photo   by Tambako the Jaguar 

Amazon parrots (Amazona sp.) originate from Mexico, Central America, South America and the adjacent islands of the West Indies.

There are several species of Amazon Parrots. Some of the most common species are the double yellow headed amazons, yellow napped amazons, yellow or blue fronted amazons, orange winged amazons, green cheeked amazons, and lilac crowned amazons.

A healthy Amazon can be expected to have a lifespan of around 50 years or even longer with good nutrition and care and their size can range anywhere from about 10-20 inches in length.

The affectionate and loyal nature of the Amazon makes this bird a wonderful pet for those experienced with companion parrots. Amazons are highly intelligent and require a devoted owner who is willing to provide significant and meaningful attention, as well as stimulus such as chewing toys to keep them happy and healthy.

Some males can become aggressive when they reach sexual maturity. Gentle dominance training is essential. It is a good idea to teach amazons to step up on a stick on command for those times when they are "over-stimulated." These birds require strong, patient owners who understand their moods. Do plenty of research on behaviour and training before buying one so you can build a strong foundation with the young bird.

The best talkers tend to be the double yellow heads, yellow napes, and blue fronts. Many of these birds can also become proficient singers. They are not shy and will often perform for strangers. Because of these characteristics, these parrots are often selected as performers in bird shows and at zoos.

Generally, they do not develop feather picking problems the way many parrot species do, but they can if they are neglected, confined in small cages for long periods of time, and not stimulated with interaction and/or toys.

Caging

Amazons are quite active and very prone to obesity if they do not get exercise. The cage provided should be large enough to ensure that they get an adequate room for play and exercise. A spacing of bars depends on the size of the species and care should be taken for smaller amazons to ensure that the spacing is not large enough for them to get their head through.

Diet

A diet that is about 25-50 per cent pellet based, with the rest made up of a variety of healthy fresh foods is generally accepted as a good guide. Seeds are too high in fat for Amazons and while they can be fed as treats, they should make up no more than 10 per cent of the whole diet. Nuts are a good treat, also in moderation.

Feather and Skin Health

Amazons should be showered regularly for feather and skin health. They can develop a musky odour that bothers some people, but most owners will need to get used to it. Regular showers keep the smell from getting too strong.

Noise

Most birds purchased young and properly trained and socialized will rarely vocalize to the point of disturbing neighbours, but generally, they do vocalize at least once a day with loud screeches.

Some amazons can be very loud resulting in many older birds being sold because of the noise becoming a nuisance factor to others. They are not great pets to be kept in apartments for this reason and generally, the larger the bird, the louder the call. Amazons that have been kept with other amazons tend to be the loudest.

Sleep

At least 10 hours of dark, quiet sleep time each night. Amazons that do not get enough sleep can be very grouchy and aggressive.

With lots of love, care and an occasional trip to the vet (where flight feathers should be trimmed), an Amazon parrot will be a beautiful and entertaining companion animal for many years.

By Vijai Sharma - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Introducing The AFRICAN GREY Parrot

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

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All About SENEGAL PARROTS

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

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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.

Article Source: GoArticles

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A SENEGAL PARROT As A Pet

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.

By Alan Stables - Article Source: EzineArticles

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ECLECTUS PARROT - General Health

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.

By Andrew Rocuant - Article Source: EzineArticles

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