We love writing about pet birds and especially parrots. The last parrot story we shared on Facebook was about the parrot that saved a toddler's life! An interesting fact about the Quaker parrot? They may be illegal where you live so you must research whether or not you're allowed to have one as a pet. After considering this breed you'll want to run out and bring one home as they are super cute and very talkative!
What is the Quaker parrot? Lafeber Company's article (experts on small mammals and pet birds) shares that the Quaker parakeet, also called the Quaker parrot and the monk parakeet/parrot, a native of South America, is one of the most popular parrots of its size due to its availability, low cost, and outstanding mimicking ability. Although some places consider them pests and have outlawed them! They've established large wild colonies in Southern Florida to the Northeast and Midwest.
How do you care for Quaker parrots?
Experts say that you'll need a lot of chewable toys for these birds or your furniture will see some damage. Also, they need attention and a lot of it. If they're ignored by their owners you'll see a lot of feather picking and self-mutilation so having a pet bird is a big commitment.
Their cage needs to be a minimum of 18 inches square, though they'll do even better in the largest one you can provide. Make sure it's tough, too and include a play gym so they can burn off energy. You'll also need nesting materials and they may try to build a nest in your house! The Spruce Pets also confirms the importance of a bath.
"A bath inside the cage should be considered a must with this bird and acts as another form of entertainment."
They enjoy cuddling and are little chatterboxes. You'll need to let them out to fly for an hour or two every day.
The need a premium daily diet designed for parakeets and parrots. They should have fresh fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and healthy table food available in addition to pellets. Root vegetables, peppers, and colorful produce are critical in their diets.
How long does a Quaker parrot live?
Be ready to include this parrot in your will. They live 20 to 30 years in captivity, some even longer.
Do Quaker parrots talk?
The Spruce Pets confirms that they are not only confident but very social little birds.
"Bold and outgoing, they tend to chatter a lot and they are quite active little birds. They love to interact with their "flock" and are known around the world for their exceptional talking ability."
They're known for their charming, comical personalities and their willingness to learn human speech. You absolutely shouldn't be sound sensitive.
What about health conditions?
The most common health problems are the feather destructive behaviors we mentioned, such as plucking out feathers, and fatty liver disease, which is associated with a high-fat diet; namely a seed-based diet.
Where can you find one? Check with your local humane society as some will be given up for adoption and of course, a bird breeder will be able to answer questions about which breeders are reputable.
These talkers if hand fed will become very loyal to their 'bird owner'. A pet Quaker parrot is a great bird for a family as these social birds are super entertaining.
Remember though the birdcage needs to be rather large and the bigger the cage the better. If your Quaker is the only parrot and you want to introduce a new bird you'll need to integrate a second cage so they can get used to each other.
Don't ever allow your Quaker parrot to get bored as feather plucking is a horrible habit that results in a lot of vet visits and pet owners should walk away if they don't have time and patience. These Quaker parrots are also known as Monk parrots so some may be advertised as this name as well. The scientific name is myiopsitta monachus.
If you see someone in your area or region writes about feral populations of the Quaker parrot then they may be illegal and see as agricultural pests. From what we've researched this parrot species is banned in some places so before you bring this bird species into your home check with your county or ask your local vet.
The African Grey and Amazon parrots are much more expensive so consider this Quaker parrot instead!
Have you ever seen a quaker parrot? Please leave us a comment below!
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