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Lineolated Parrots

Lineolated parrots are small, round, heavy-bodied parrots, originating from Southern Mexico to the Northwest countries of South America. Their natural color is vibrant green, with black stripe-like markings running horizontally along the back and the wings. With increasing popularity though, many other color morphs are now available like: lutino, grey, cobalt, and some that are have minimal pattern. Males and females are visually very similar. They have an average lifespan of about 12 years.

While similar in size to lovebirds, “linnies” have very different proportions and physical traits- most notably their distinctive pointed tail. They are popular due to their generally calm, quiet, and friendly dispositions, but can make louder ‘beeping’ noises when calling or startled. Some males have been know to talk if taught young and with repetition.

There are many particular quirks which make lineolateds entertaining, such as their bathing habits. They usually prefer a spray bottle on a mist setting, and will hang upside-down with their wings fanned out. Although not as destructive as other birds, many enjoy tents for playing and sleeping in.

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Christmas Tree Safety

As pine trees are popping up in many homes in preparation for Christmas, it is important that parrot owners know that Christmas trees (real and fake) do not make good play areas for their birds.

  • Cut branches from wreaths or trees should not be used as foraging material or toys. Pine needles in particular are sharp, not easily digestible, and may contain saps and residues that can be irritating to their eyes, skin, and digestive system.
  • Some trees may be sprayed with chemicals and flame retardants.
  • Other concerns can be lights, which pose an electrical hazard for birds that like to chew.
  • Ornaments can also be knocked down and broken, and sometimes older or metal ornaments can pose a heavy metal toxicity risk if a parrot decides to chew on it.
  • Fake snow aerosols can be harmful for bird respiratory systems, and toxic if ingested.
  • Tinsels and ribbons can be a health hazard if chewed or ingested.

    • Please keep yourself and your birds safe this holiday season!

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    Quick Sweet Potato

    Sweet potatoes are a typical Thanksgiving staple- often served sweet with butter and brown sugar, in a pie, or savory with butter. Rich in vitamin A, C, and E, many parrots relish this nutritious treat when served warm. Even small birds like finches and canaries can easily pick away at them when mashed.

    If you don’t have the hour or two to bake these, don’t worry! They don’t have to be time-intensive:

    1. Thoroughly scrub and rinse the outer skin. Using a fork, poke the outside of the sweet potato 4-5 times.
    2. Choose a microwave-safe container with a lid that can fit the whole sweet potato. Put the sweet potato in the container and fill it with 1/2″ layer of water.
    3. Place this in the microwave and rest the lid on top to keep in the steam. Microwave for about 3 minutes.
    4. Using tongs or other utensil, roll the sweet potato over 180′. Replace the lid and microwave for an additional 2 minutes.

    Caution, the water and sweet potato will be very hot! Remove from the microwave and take it out of the container to let cool. You can check for done-ness by inserting a sharp knife, which should go in smoothly. When able to be handled, the skin can easily be peeled away and discarded.

    Chop into bite-size chunks to serve, or try offering it mashed!

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    Bedding

    Newspaper – The most basic and recommended material for lining cages, newspaper is inexpensive and easily available. While not as absorbent as other material, it allows one to easily observe droppings for changes. Some birds that can reach the papers through the grate and may enjoy shredding it. Newer inks are now non-toxic if your parrot chews on it, but unprinted and crinkled paper bedding is also available.

    Walnut Shell – Made from ground up walnut shells, this bedding has a clumping effect and is easily sifted. Its density makes it less likely to spread around when a bird flaps. The best uses are for stands or trays where birds cannot access it. They should not be ingesting this material as it can become impacted in the crop.

    Corn Cob – Made from crumbled, dried corn cobs, corn cob bedding is absorbent and helps control odors. It is easy to pick or scoop out soiled areas, and one should do so daily to prevent mold growth. The best uses are for stands or trays where birds cannot access it. They should not be ingesting this material as it can become impacted in the crop.

    Care Fresh – Made of wood pulp, this bedding is absorbent and helps control odors. It is easy to pick or scoop out soiled areas, and one should do so daily to prevent mold growth. Although it may be digestible in small amounts, it is best to make sure your parrot is also not ingesting this material.

    WARNING: Cedar wood and cat litters should never be used as bedding. Both contain substances that could be harmful to your parrot