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Blue-headed Pionus

Pionus are parrots that are not as well-known as the cuddly cockatoos, bright conures, or talkative amazons- but they are increasing in popularity for their easy-going personality. Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; the most notable species are the Maximillian, the White-capped, and the Blue-headed.

Blue-headed Pionus are medium-sized, slightly larger than a Spectacled Amazon (the smallest of Amazons). They have a lifespan up to 25 years and potentially up to 35 or more.

At first sight, a young Blue-headed Pionus may not look flashy, but within a year or two it will molt and have striking blue head plumage! Both males and females have bright blue heads and gender can be difficult to determine without having a DNA test.

Their talking potential is low, but they are able to learn small vocabularies. For their size, they are also moderately quiet, but just like any parrot they can have loud, screechy moments! Blue-headed Pionus also have a thoughtful independence- similar to amazons but typically without the temperamental behavior. Some will also tolerate petting, and many love a good scratch around the head and nape of the neck.

An unusual trait of some Blue-headed Pionus, as well as other types of Pionus, is the habit of wheezing when over-excited or nervous. The wheezing will stop once they’ve calmed down.

Like most pet birds, a diet of pellets and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended. Seed can be fed as an occasional treat.

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Sprouting

It is well-known that sprouted seeds are nutrient-rich; you can find sprouts in health food stores, on menus in salads, and there are home-sprouting kits online. Sprouting has also become very popular for birds as well. An alternative to sprouting is to soak seeds to the point of germination where a tip just begins to emerge. Germination requires less time, decreases chance of mold growth, and is still very nutritious. Sprouting can also be done in the refrigerator, where the colder temperature inhibits mold growth, although the sprouting process takes longer.

Good seeds to sprout for parrots Good legumes to sprout for parrots
barley
buckwheat
chili/bell pepper seeds
popcorn
millet
safflower
sesame
sunflower seeds
quinoa
wheat berries**Many other quality mixes can be purchased online.		 adzuki
garbanzos
mung beans
whole lentils
whole peas

**Other large beans may contain toxic compounds and are not best for sprouting and should only be fed if thoroughly soaked and cooked.

Disclaimer: Sprouts do have the potential to grow mold if not rinsed properly, or not grown in correct environments/temperatures. If your sprouts smell bad, they are likely spoiled and should be discarded.

 The following directions are general steps for sprouting. Some seeds and legumes will vary in their time needed to soak and the time before sprouting occurs. There is plenty of additional information online regading sprouting specifically for birds.

1. Using a mesh strainer, rinse 1/4 cup seeds/legumes. Put the mix into a glass container and fill with enough water to cover the mix 2-3 inches. Let soak overnight.

 
2. Pour the soaked mix back into the strainer and rinse. Many people use glass Ball or Kerr mason jars for sprouting along with a special sprouting lid that makes rinsing and draining easy. You can also use cheesecloth or fine-mesh netting secured with a rubberband. Complete drainage and ventilation is important!
3. Keep the sprout mix at room temperature and out of direct light. Repeat rinsing and straining/draining 2-4 times a day. It is best to drain at an angle, with the opening oriented between 4 and 5 o’ clock.
4. After 2-4 days, the mixture will be sprouted and ready to serve. Check the odor- sprouts can smell “earthy” and sweet but should not smell foul or pungent. Always rinse and dry sprouts before feeding them to your birds.
5. Sprouts can be stored in the refrigerator for an additional 2-3 days. Drain well before storing as excess water can cause them to spoil.
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Eggfood

Eggfood is available for many small birds, and is normally relished by finches, canaries, budgies, grass parakeets, and cockatiels. While it can be given to larger parrots, the crumb size is fairly small and they may not be interested in it.

Many brands and varieties to available to choose from. Most eggfoods are general for all birds, but some have been developed with softbills and insectivores in mind, or with color additives for red factor canaries. They usually contain a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, and are a good source of protein. Eggfood is a good addition to round out a seed-based diet.

Eggfood can be offered sprinkled over seeds, but it may settle to the bottom. If offered in a separate dish, it can be fed dry or moistened with water for a crumbly texture. If you do wet it, just remember to remove it after a few hours because it can spoil.

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Red-hot Roasted Garbanzos

Ingredients:

  • 1 can garbanzo beans (chickpeas) -low sodium
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil (or coconut oil)
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. chili flakes

    • Directions:

    1. Preheat oven to 400′ F.
    2. Drain garbanzo beans into a colander and rinse well. Spread them out onto a clean cloth or paper towel and gently pat them dry.
    3. Place the garbanzo beans into a bowl and add oil and spices. Mix until all beans are coated.
    4. Spread beans onto a foil-lined baking pan and bake for about 40 minutes, or until crunchy.
    5. Store in a ziplock bag or air tight container