• History
  • Temperament
  • Speech and Vocalizations
  • Colors and Markings
  • Care
  • Common Health Issues
  • Diet and Nutrition
  • Exercise
  • Where to Adopt or Buy
  • Further Research

Origin and History

Species Overview

The International Union of Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources classifies this bird as an endangered species. International treaties now make it illegal to capture, export, or own wild-caught birds. Captive-bred birds can be legally sold and owned, though documentation is required. 

Temperament

When hand-fed from a young age, these birds can be affectionate pets. They’re intelligent, have remarkable “speaking” ability, and they love to be the center of attention. However, problems may occur when an owner is unwilling or unable to give the parrot the attention it demands. 

Speech and Vocalizations

It is also a noisy, boisterous bird, prone to screaming sessions twice a day, at dawn and dusk. These loud vocalizations are normal for this species. Screaming can become a problem if the bird screams all day long, which can happen if the bird is bored due to a lack of attention or mental stimulation. 

As its name suggests, this bird has a yellow head; the rest of its body is green. There is a ring of white around the eyes, and the beak is horn-colored. In young birds, the head includes some dark gray, but gradually, the crown becomes steadily more yellow with each molt. In young birds, there are small areas of red on the shoulder. The adult head color does not fully set in until the bird is at least 6 years old. The ratio of yellow may gradually increase as the bird ages. 

Males and females look the same. To tell them apart, your bird will need genetic testing or surgical sexing procedure.

Allow the parrots to shower or soak in a birdbath at least weekly to ensure skin and feather health.

Common Health Issues

  • Polyomavirus, a viral infection that can cause anorexia and weight lossChlamydiosis, a bacterial infection that presents with fluffed feathers and nasal dischargeNutritional deficiencies (vitamin A) or obesity; a balanced diet and regular exercise can keep this in check.

Diet and Nutrition

Feed approximately 3/4 cup of pelleted food and 1/4 cup of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. A raw and varied diet will help ensure that your bird maintains top nutrition.

Exercise

  • Social, affectionate, loyal

  • Intelligent, a great mimic and talker

  • Can get loud when it wants to

  • Needs at least 3 to 4 hours of socialization, exercise daily

  • Bird Breeders

  • Birds Now

  • Adopt a Pet

If buying through a breeder, make sure you interview the breeder, look at the general health of their birds, check out their living conditions, and talk to past customers. Signs you should avoid the breeder include cramped living conditions, inactive birds, and breeders who avoid your questions or do not seem to have much information on their birds.

More Pet Bird Species and Further Research

  • Parrots & Pet Birds