Category: Birds

Posted on by

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.

Posted on by

Red Factor Canaries

Canaries are beautiful to look at and males are known for their melodic songs. There are canaries known for their specific song type, a certain look or trait, and also color. One of the most popular colors is the Red Factor Canary. These types can be bright red to orangey, and dark red and brown.

Red factors came from a cross between a canary and type of finch called a Red Siskin. Red Siskins have a gene which allows them to process pigments from carotenoids in the foods they eat and it is distributed into their feathers, like flamingos! When crossed with the Red Siskin, it was found canaries then exhibited this gene too.

Red factors also need carotenoids in their diet to keep their bright plumage. If they are without, their feather color may dull, especially if they are going through a molt. But there are supplements like eggfood specifically for red factors, and concentrated Canthaxanthin that can be feed. To keep them colored with natural foods, feed items high in Beta-Carotene like certain greens, red peppers, sweet potatoes, squashes, tomatoes, beets, berries, cherries, and carrots.

Posted on by

Parrotlets

Parrotlets are one of the smallest parrots available in captivity. Their tiny size and huge personalities make them popular pets. The most common species of parrotlet is the Pacific Parrotlet which is native to Ecuador and Peru. Although their normal coloration is green, there are color mutations that produce yellow, blue, and white birds. The average lifespan is between 15 and 20 years with proper health, diet, and exercise.

Parrotlets love nests and things to hide or climb into. Tents are popular for cages, but when they are out they may love snuggling up under your hair, in your sleeve, or under the collar of your shirt! Nests can make parrotlets territorial, so if aggression starts to appear, it is best to remove items that they can hide in. Sometimes they are cage territorial as well so it is helpful to encourage your bird to “share” space early on by having your hands inside the cage, and rotating toys and perches regularly.

Males can easily be distinguished from females by their royal blue rump no matter which coloration they may be. (The exception being albinos.)

Parrotlets are not known for being good talkers, but with lots of time and repetition it is possible. With time and patience they can also learn tricks, such as laying on their back, fetching small items, simple object or ring toss games, and more.

Posted on by

Jardine’s Parrots

If you are looking for a medium, compact parrot with an even disposition and playful personality, the Jardine’s Parrots are a good place to start. When young, they are primarily green and black which run into a scalloped pattern on the wings and back. As they mature, they grow a pop of orange or red color on their forehead and shoulders. This is usually not completely grown-in until 4 to 6 years of age. Males and females will look alike.

Jardine’s are one of the larger species in the Poicephalus genus, and are related to Senegals, Red Bellied Parrots, and a few other species originating in Africa. There are 3 subspecies: the Greater, the Lesser, and the Black-wing. These can be difficult to tell apart, but there are a few clues to look for:

  • The Greater Jardine’s may be slightly larger, and the mature forehead and shoulder coloration is red-orange.

  • The Lesser Jardine’s are the most commonly kept Jardine’s, and have a orange to golden forehead and shoulder coloration, and extends the farthest on the bird.

  • The Black-wing Jardine’s are not common, and the forehead and shoulder coloration is more red.

    • The talking and mimicking ability of the Jardine’s is fair, they usually like to pick up sounds and are very good at whistles. They can be affectionate, bowing their head for neck rubs, and some will enjoying playing on their back and wrestling with balls and foot toys. Jardine’s can also play independently on playstands, or in their cage with other toys- not have to rely on constant attention.

    Jardine’s are a parrot that may be apartment friendly as they are not constantly loud vocalizers. But with any parrot there is always the potential for noise! The lifespan can range from 25-30 years or more.