- 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
The bird was first described and categorized in 1788 by Swedish naturalist Anders Sparrman. Its numbers are prolific in the wild.
Temperament
Speech and Vocalizations
The lesser white-fronted is slightly smaller and darker in color, while the Sonora white-fronted has more greenish-blue on top of the head.
Set aside time each day for one-on-one interaction with the bird, which will establish and maintain a healthy bond.
Common Health Problems
- Psittacosis, also called parrot fever, an infection caused by chlamydia bacteria
- Other bacterial, viral, or fungal infections
- Feather picking, usually due to boredom or lack of proper bathing
- Allergies
Diet and Nutrition
In the wild, white-fronted parrots eat mostly fruits, berries, plants, seeds and nuts, corn, and some protein.
As with all parrots, avocado, chocolate, rhubarb, coffee beans, and alcohol are toxic to this bird.
Exercise
These birds are also intense chewers and will need plenty of toys to chew on and play with. Even providing the bird with branches and twigs may help channel the chewing instinct and save your furniture from damage.
Can get loud when it wants to; not recommended for apartment living
May have biting, aggressive period during its adolescence; not recommended for families with young children
Bird Breeders
Hookbills for Sale
Adopt a Pet
If buying through a breeder, make sure you interview them, 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.
