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

Origin and History

Species Overview

Temperament

Their social nature helps to make them gentle and affectionate companions. While this is a loving bird, this is also a very active species, so this bird needs an owner that can keep up with it. It must have a safe space to climb and play outside of the cage each day.

Speech and Vocalizations

It is necessary to set aside time each day for one-on-one interaction with the bird; this establishes and maintains a healthy bond. For owners unable to provide a lot of daily interaction, you might want to get another bird to keep it company.

Common Health Problems

If the bird does not get a balanced diet or eat enough fruit and vegetables, your bird can get a vitamin A deficiency, fatty liver syndrome, or cancerous fatty tumors.

Diet and Nutrition

Specially formulated pellets are an ideal food and should ideally represent approximately 75 to 80 percent of the bird’s diet. Fruits, vegetables, and greens should account for about 20 to 25 percent of the daily diet. Seeds and nuts are high-fat foods that you can offer as occasional treats. Start by giving your bird 3/4 cup of pellet-based parrot mix and a 1/2 cup of fruits and vegetables daily, then adjust according to their appetite.

Exercise

These birds are heavy chewers that will need plenty of toys to chew on and grab with their feet. Provide fun ropes or ladders that might interest birds to jump and climb.

  • Social, friendly, likes handling

  • Intelligent, can learn to talk and do tricks

  • Can be noisy, not well-suited for apartments

  • Requires at least 3 to 4 hours of supervised out-of-cage time

  • Birds Now

  • Bird Breeders

  • Adopt a Pet

If you are going the breeder route, make sure that the breeder is reputable. Ask how long they have been breeding and tour their facility. Make sure that the bird you want to take home is alert, active, and exhibits all the signs of a healthy bird, such as bright eyes, clean feathers, and full crops.

More Pet Bird Species and Further Research

Otherwise, take a look at some similar birds in the large parrot species profiles.