Plum-Headed Parakeet birds :
Plum-Headed Parakeet Stats
Scientific Name: Psittacula cyanocephala
Size: Small, up to 13 inches
Native Region: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
Life Expectancy: 15 to 30 years
Noise Level: Low
Talk/Trick Ability: Fair
Traits: Generally easy-going, plum-headed parakeets are playful, but fairly quiet. When they are not in the breeding season, plum-headed parakeets interact well with other birds of the same species. They become tame with regular handling and interaction.
Behavior/Health Concerns: Plum-headed parakeets are not as big chewers as other Psittaculas. Watch the temperature, because this species is sensitive to cold and wet conditions. Males develop a plum-red head that fades to a purplish-blue color toward the lower cheeks, hind crown and nape of the neck. A black stripe on the males circles the neck and diagonal patches of plum-red wing bars (matching the head color) are on the wing coverts. These male birds have blue central tail feathers with broad white tips and yellowish-green lateral tail feathers, tipped with yellow. The upper mandible of the male is orange and a brownish-black color covers the lower mandible. Females in this species have a lavender-gray head with a golden yellow collar where the male’s black neck ring is. The female’s wing bar is lavender-gray. They have pale yellow upper mandible and the lower portion is gray tinted. Plum-headed parakeets are hearty eaters and thrive on a healthy diet consisting of pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Bobby is a male Plum-headed parakeet. The Plum-headed female has a gray head and the male's head is grayish purple or plum colored... thus the name Plum-headed!
The Plum-headed Parakeet is a very beautiful bird. They are a very tolerant towards other parakeets, and even known to be peaceful with small birds such as finches.
Scientific name:Psittacula cyanocephala
Description:
The Plum-headed Parakeet belongs in the Psittacula genus, that are known as Ringneck Parakeets. This genus has the distinguishing characteristic of a colored collar going around the head in the males, or a pronounced stripe running through the chin area.
The Plum-headed Parakeet male has a plum colored head with a narrow, black collar around it's neck followed by a bluish-green band. They have dark green wings and a reddish brown stripe on the lesser coverlets, and the rest of the body is light green. The central tail feathers are bluish-green and the outer tail feathers are green with light yellow tips. The female's head is lighter than the male, and they have no red shoulder marking. The young reach their adult plumage after 2 years and the second full molt. These birds grow to a length of 13" (33 cm).
Distribution:
The Plum-headed Parakeet is found in Sri Lanka, Ceylon, most of India, west Pakistan, Nepal and the Rameswaram Island.
Care and Feeding::
Fresh food and water must be provided daily.
In the wild, Plum-headed Parakeets eat a variety of seeds, fruits, nuts, blossoms, leaf buds. In addition to these foods, you can offer them vegetables and commercial pellets. They like nuts with the shells cracked, such as walnuts, pecans and almonds. They also enjoy the same nutritional foods humans eat, including cooked chicken. Cooked beans, rice, and grains are also enjoyed, but soft foods like these will spoil in about 4 hours. An occasional millet spray is a nice treat.
See About Parakeets: Care and Feeding for more detailed information.
Housing:
A a roomy cage is required, and these birds are sensitive to freezing temperatures.
See About Parakeets: Housing for more extensive housing information.
Maintenance:
The basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Weekly you should wash all the perches and dirty toys, and the floor should be washed about every other week. A total hosing down and disinfecting of an aviary should be done yearly, replacing anything that needs to be freshened, such as old dishes, toys and perches.
Social Behaviors:
In the wild, these birds live in flocks and are very social. They have a pleasant nature and tolerate other birds housed with them except when breeding, then like many parakeets, they can be more aggressive.
Handling/Training:
See About Parakeets: Handling and Training for detailed information.
Activities:
Parakeets are very energetic birds! Besides flying, which is important for all parakeets, these birds love to chew! Be sure you provide them with lots of assorted toys and wood chews, perches and swings.
Breeding/Reproduction:
According to author Annette Wolter, in her book "Long-Tailed Parakeets", Plum-headed Parakeets do not bond with a mate for life, unlike many parakeets. She states, "...they do not form lasting bonds with a mate. After brooding, the pairs separate once more." However, she does state that they are easily bred. They are not always successful at raising their young, so you may have to hand-rear the babies. Each pair will need two nesting boxes to choose from. Once the nest box is selected the female will lay four to six eggs.
See About Parakeets: Breeding and Reproduction for more information.
Potential Problems:
These parakeets call varies from melodic notes to a shrill call when in flight. They can have a loud scream.
See About Parakeets: Potential Problems for more information.
Availability:
Plum-headed Parakeets are available from time to time at pet stores or from breeders.
The Plumheads as Pets
The Plum Headed Parakeet are popular pets. They are intelligent birds and many may learn to talk, although not as good as some of the larger parrots.
Most Plum-headed Parrots enjoy being close to their owner, however, they are not considered "cuddly birds" and don't like petting.
As with just about all parrots, they are likely to be timid initially; however, given time, patience, and daily interaction, they should become tame quite easily.
These parrots tend to be more active in an aviary setting and may become apathetic in a cage environment. Their preferred environment should be an aviary, or a setting that allows them to fly and move around freely in a safe environment.
They do well in a communal aviary setting, getting along well with other birds -- however, may be assertive to larger birds in the aviary.
Plum-headed Parakeets (Psittacula cyanocephala) are endemic to Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Rameswaram Island and most of India, as well as Rawalpindi in West Pakistan, Nepal east to Bhutan and West Bengal.
Their preferred habitats are the forest areas and open woodland. Populations undergo local movements, driven mainly by the availability of the fruit and blossoms which make up its diet.
Though this species is not exploited as heavily as the sympatric (of the same geographic region) Alexandrine Parakeet the trade takes its toll on local populations across the range. Population is reduced in urban areas and heavily inhabited zones.
Description:
This is a green parrot, averaging 13 - 14 ins (33 - 35 cm) in length, with the tail accounting for about two thirds of the length.
The male's head is red, becoming purple-blue on the back of the crown, nape and cheeks. There is a narrow black neck collar and a black chin stripe. There is a red shoulder patch and the rump and tail are bluish-green, the latter tipped white. The upper
beak is orangish-yellow, and the lower beak is dark.
The female has a grey head, corn-yellow upper beak and lacks the black neck collar, chin stripe and red shoulder patch. Immature birds have a green head and both upper and lower beaks are yellowish.
The different head color and the white tip to the tail distinguish this species from the similar Blossom-headed Parakeet (Psittacula roseata).
Females attain the adult plumage at 15 months; young males attain full adult male plumage at about 30 months.
Similar Species ID: This species if often confused with the Blossom-headed Parakeet. The male Plum-headed Parakeet has a darker red head, while the male Blossom-headed Parakeet's head is pink. The Blossom-headed Parakeets have yellow tail tips, while the Plum-headed Parakeet has white tail tips.
Breeding / Nesting
Breeding Plum-headed Parakeets usually lay clutches averaging 4 - 6 eggs which they incubate for about 21 - 23 days.
Breeding:
In their natural habitat, the plum-headed parakeets nest in holes in trees. Plum Headed Parakeets produce one clutch a year.
These parakeets tend to be more active in an aviary setting and may become apathetic in a cage environment. Their preferred environment should be an aviary, or a setting that allows them to fly and move around freely in a safe environment. They do well in a communal aviary setting, getting along well with other birds -- however, may be assertive to larger birds in the aviary.
The breeding season typically begins in April. The average clutch size is 4 - 6 eggs and the incubation period lasts from 19 to 23 days. The chicks will fledge at about 6 to 7 weeks of age. The females may become aggressive towards the males during the breeding season.
Ringneck Parrots are generally hardy birds. However, the following diseases have been reported in this species:
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Bacterial infections (pneumonia)
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Hypovitaminosis A
Relevant Resources:
Taxonomy:
Species: Scientific: Psittacula cyanocephala ... English: Plum-headed Parakeet ... Dutch: Pruimekopparkiet ... German: Pflaumenkopfsittich ... French: Perruche à tête prune
CITES II - Endangered Species
Alexandrine Parakeet Stats
Scientific Name: Psittacula eupatria
Size: Large, 23 inches
Native Region: India, Southeast Asia
Life Expectancy: 15 to 30 years
Noise Level: Moderate
Talk/Trick Ability: Moderate
Alexandrine Parakeet Species Profile:
Traits: Alexandrine parakeets are independent but social and make excellent pets. They are adventurous and enjoy new toys and activities. While they do not enjoy as much handling as other parrots, Alexandrine parakeets do like being touched and stroked on occasion. These birds enjoy showering in the rain, so regular indoor showers or spraying them with a bottle is ideal.
Behavior/Health Concerns: Alexandrine parakeets can be noisy and a prolific chewer, so provide wooden toys. They can also be aggressive toward other birds, so it is best to house Alexandrine parakeets in separate cages. These pet birds need a different bird foods, with plenty of fruit, vegetables and greens. With training, practice and patients, this parakeet can become a tame pet.
The Alexandrine Parakeet or Alexandrian Parrot (Psittacula eupatria) is a member of the psittaciformes order and of the psittacines family.
The species is named after Alexander the Great, who is credited with the exporting of numerous specimens of this bird from Punjab into various European and Mediterranean countries and regions, where they were considered prized possessions for the nobles and royalty.
The species name eupatria has its origins from Latin and/or could be a Greco-Latin combination. Where the prefix eu translates into good or nobleand the suffix patria is a Latin word translating intofatherland or ancestry. Consequently, the scientific name means of noble fatherland or of noble ancestry.
Physical Description:
The Alexandrine Parakeet is a large Parakeet species measuring 58 cm (23 in) in total length with a wingspan averaging 18.9–21.5 cm (7.5–8.5 in).
They weigh between 8.75 - 9.1 oz (250-260g)
It is mainly green with a blue-grey sheen on its cheeks and napes (back of a bird's neck), particularly in males. The abdomen is yellowish-green, the upperside of the middle tail feathers is blueish-green, the upperside of the external tail feathers is green while the underside of the tail feathers are all yellow.
Larry is a male Alexandrine Parrot
The Alexandrine Parakeet, like most of the ringnecks, is a very striking bird.
The two Alexandrine Parakeet pictures on this page show the differences in feather coloration characteristic to the ringnecks. Once they have finished their second full molt, the male will have the colored ring going around his head which immature males and females will not have.
Scientific name:
Psittacula eupatria
Distribution:
The Alexandrine Parakeet is found in Ceylon, eastern Afghanistan, western Pakistan, through India to Indochina, and the Andaman Islands. They live in lowlands and wooded areas such as forests, jungle, and coastal mangroves.
Description:
The Alexandrine Parakeet belongs in the Psittacula genus, that are known as Ringneck Parakeets. This genus has the distinguishing characteristic of a colored collar going around the head in the males, or a pronounced stripe running through the chin area.
The Alexandrine Parakeets have a large head and bill, a sleek body and a long tapered tail. The male has a general green plumage with some grayish-blue on the cheeks and a dark purple-red patch on the wing. There is a faint black stripe from the cere to the eye, a black stripe across the lower cheek, and a wide rose-pink collar. The inner tail feathers are bluish-green with light yellow-white tips and a yellow underside. The beak is a deep red with a paler tip. Their average lifespan is 40 years.
The female is lighter than the male. Females don't have the rose-pink collar or the black stripe across the cheek patches, and they have shorter central tail feathers. These birds grow to a length of 23" (58 cm).
Care and Feeding:
Fresh food and water must be provided daily.
In the wild, Alexandrine Parakeets eat a variety of seeds, fruits, nuts, blossoms, leaf buds. In addition to these foods, you can offer them vegetables and commercial pellets. They like nuts with the shells cracked, such as walnuts, pecans and almonds. They also enjoy the same nutritional foods humans eat, including cooked chicken. Cooked beans, rice, and grains are also enjoyed, but soft foods like these will spoil in about 4 hours.
See About Parakeets: Care and Feeding for more detailed information.
Housing:
A a roomy cage is required as these are large parakeets.
See About Parakeets: Housing for more extensive housing information.
Maintenance:
The basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Weekly you should wash all the perches and dirty toys, and the floor should be washed about every other week. A total hosing down and disinfecting of an aviary should be done yearly, replacing anything that needs to be freshened, such as old dishes, toys and perches.
Social Behaviors:
In the wild, these birds live in small flocks during the day, and roost in very large flocks at night.
Handling/Training:
See About Parakeets: Handling and Training for detailed information.
Activities:
Parakeets are very energetic birds! Besides flying, which is important for all parakeets, these birds love to chew! Be sure you provide them with lots of assorted toys and wood chews, perches and swings.
Breeding/Reproduction:
Unlike many parakeets, the Alexandrine Parakeets do not bond with a mate for life. Each pair will need two nesting boxes to choose from with wood shavings as a bedding. Once the nest box is selected the female will lay two to four eggs. Both parents will sit on the eggs. The young leave the nest about six weeks after hatching. The males don't reach their adult plumage until the second year.
See About Parakeets: Breeding and Reproduction for more information.
Potential Problems: :
These parakeets have a loud call.
See About Parakeets: Potential Problems for more information.
Availability:
Alexandrine Parakeets are available from time to time, usually from breeders.
Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria)
Cookie the talking Alexandrine
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All Alexandrine Parakeets (irrespective of age, gender and/or sub-species) boldly display a maroon (reddish-brown) patch at the top of their
wing coverts (commonly called 'shoulder' patch). The shoulder patch is seen in parakeets at their first feathering before fledging from their nests. The lower and upper mandible are red with yellow tips. The adult's irises are yellowish-white and the periopthalmic rings are light grey. The legs are grey except in the P. e. siamensis (Laos' or Siamese sub-species) where they are yellowish-grey.
The species is dimorphic in adulthood (3 years and older). The immatures are monomorphic and are similar but duller in appearance to that of the adult females. Adult males always show pitch-black neck rings and large pink bands on their napes (commonly called nape bands). Often males only display a little band of blueish-grey above their bold pink nape-bands. Adult females frequently show neck ring shadows that are anywhere between light and dark shades of grey. Females never display true black feathers in their neck-rings. Immatures of either genders are very similar to adult females but as with all genuine parakeet species, the young Alexandrine Parakeets always display shorter middle-tail feathers and thus shorter tails than adults. The adult feathering usually is acquired between 18–30 months of age, but may sometimes show up as young as 12 and/or as old as a full 36 months of age. Consequently, it may be difficult to identify the sex Alexandrine Parakeets by sight with absolute certainty until they are a full 36 months of age.
The young males can be identified as soon as they display one (or more) pitch-black feathers of their neck rings and/or one (or more) pink feathers of their nape bands. Often, the young males develop their neck rings and nape bands in two or sometimes three successive moulting seasons. Adult parakeets with neither pitch-black feathers in their neck rings nor pink feathers in their nape bands are usually females.
Sub-species Identification :
The P. e. nipalensis ssp. (Nepalese Alexandrine Parakeet)is the largest of the species measuring 62 cm (24.5 in) in total length with a wingspan averaging between 20–24 cm (8–9.5 in). It is thus recognized as the world's largest genuine Parakeet (short to mid sized Long-Tailed Parrot) species. It looks much like the Nominate sub-species. However, the feathers on the chest and abdomen in both genders display whitish-grey sheens, the cheeks and napes (back of a bird's neck) are washed with blue and the adult males display large pink nape bands.
The P. e. magnirostris ssp. (Andaman Island's Alexandrine Parakeet) is slightly larger than the nominate sub-species, displaying a wingspan anywhere between 20–22.5 cm (8–9 in). It looks much like the nominate race. However, the feathers on the chest and abdomen in both genders display whitish-grey sheens. The maroon 'shoulder' patch is of a much
redder (or less brownish) colour than of that of the nominate.
The beak is larger and more massive. The adult males display large pink nape bands, the blue sheens above the nape-bands are restricted and sometimes absent in some specimens.
The P. e. avensis ssp. (Indo-Burmese Alexandrine Parakeet) is of same size as the nominate species, also measuring 58 cm (23 in), displaying a wingspan averaging anywhere between 19.4–22 cm (7.5–8.5 in) and looks much like the Nominate ssp. However, the top of the head and the nape are of a yellowish-green, the blue sheens are restricted to the cheeks and thus absent in the nape. The adult males display thinner and pinker nape-bands.
The P. e. siamensis ssp. (Laos or Siamese Alexandrine Parakeet) is the smallest of the species, measuring 56 cm (22 in), displaying a wingspan averaging anywhere between 17.9–20.5 cm (7–8 in) and looks much like the Nominate ssp. However, the top of the head and the nape display pale-blue sheens that extends to the crown in some specimens. The cheeks are yellowish-green, the 'shoulder' patch is of a nearly brownless red colour and the legs display a pronounced yellowish shade.
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P. e. eupatria (nominateAlexandrine Parakeet),
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P. e. avensis (Burmese Alexandrine Parakeet),
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P. e. magnirostris (Andaman Island's Alexandrine Parakeet) and
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P. e. siamensis (Laos or Siamese Alexandrine Parakeet).
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There are five sub-species, differing in mostly minor plumage details and size:
Alexandrine Parakeet is a gregarious and noisy species, forming huge flocks at the evening roosts. Its flight is swift and direct, and the call is a loud scream, similar to, but deeper than Rose-ringed Parakeet, P. krameri.
Status:
Trapping pressure to cater to the demands of the pet trade have caused a drastic decline in this species. It is illegal to trade in Alexandrine Parakeets in India and yet these birds are sold in broad daylight in urban bird markets, suggesting that the Indian government is allocating insufficient resources towards the protection of this beautiful species.
Distribution and Habitat:
he following sub-species, many of them allopatric are recognised based on geographical distribution:
-Psittacula eupatria eupatria, Alexandrine Parakeet (nominate race) - East India to Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh in the South, Sri Lanka.
-Psittacula eupatria avensis, Indo-Burmese Alexandrine Parakeet - Northeast India to Amherst in Myanmar
-Psittacula eupatria magnirostris, Andaman Islands' Alexandrine Parakeet - Andaman Islands
-Psittacula eupatria nipalensis, Nepalese Alexandrine Parakeet - Eastern Afghanistan, Pakistan, North and central India, Nepal, Buthan to Assam in Northeast India.
-Psittacula eupatria siamensis, Laos' or Siamese Alexandrine Parakeet - Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, north and east Thailand
The species has naturalized (species that live and reproduce outside its natural distribution range) itself in numerous European countries. Particularly in Germany, in the south of England, in Belgium, in the Netherland where it generally lives amongst or along side flocks of naturalizedPsittacula krameri (Ringnecked or Rose-ringed Parakeet).
The Alexandrine Parakeet's call is a powerful screech but deeper than that of its very close-relative the Psittacula krameri (Ringnecked or Rose-Ringed Parakeet)
Aviculture :
The bird is popular among aviculturists. It is ideal for outdoor aviaries and cannot tolerate temperatures less than 5 °C (41 °F). They breed well in aviaries. The parakeet is one of the oldest captive Parakeet species on the Eurasian continent. It gets its name from the legendary Emperor Alexander The Great, who had numerous specimens exported back to various Mediterranean countries by his legionaries. The parakeet has since then been popular among the nobles throughout the Empire's Anatolian, European and Mediterranean countries.
Captivity :
It is an active species, likes water (bathing, misting, raining and showering) and readily accepts diverse and/or new foods. It chews vigorously and hence it is important to keep the perch non-toxic without chemical products such as disinfectants, fungicide, insecticides or pesticides. The Alexandrine Parakeet has an average lifespan of 40 years in capitivity and as with all other parakeets, they are among the top
mimics.
Derbyan Parakeet :
courtesy to : www.birdchannel.com/bird-species/profiles/derbyan-parakeet
Derbyan Parakeet Stats:
Scientific Name: Psittacula derbiana
Size: 20 inches
Native Region: Southeastern Tibet, Northeastern India and Southwestern China
Life Expectancy: 25 to 30 years
Noise Level: Medium
Talk/Trick Ability: Excellent
Natural breeding habits :
Breeding season is from November to April in their natural distribution range.
Average clutch size is 2–4 eggs measuring 34.0 x 26.9 mm (1 x 1.3 in). The average incubation period is 28 days usually starting with the laying of the second egg. The chicks fledge around seven weeks of age. They are reared for about three weeks and are typically weaned between 12 to 16 weeks of age. They are critically endangered in Pakistan specially in Punjab province. This is mostly due to loss of habitat, like cutting of old tress and excessive poaching of their new born chicks. Although it is officially banned in Pakistan to sell these parrots but they can be found openly being sold in markets of Lahore.
Alexandrine Parakeets as Pets:
The Alexandrian originates from India and is well known for its mimicking abilities.
These intelligent birds make good pets for those willing to provide continual obedience training. If neglected or not given the appropriate training, Alexandrians become prone to feather picking and other behavioral problems.
The Alexandrian’s large and powerful beak has a strong bite and for this reason is not recommended as a pet for children.
A larger cage is required for the Alexandrian to accommodate its beautiful, long tapering tail.
(The above information and chart below has kindly been provided by Dr. Rob Marshall, Avian Vet -http://www.birdhealth.com.au)
Taxonomy:
Species: Scientific: Psittacula eupatria eupatria ... English: Alexandrine Parakeet ... Dutch: Grote Alexanderparkiet ... German: Großer Alexandersittich ... French: Perruche Alexandre | CITES II - Endangered Species
Distribution: Ceylon, southern India north to about Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
Sub-species :
Nepalese Alexandrine Parakeets: Please scroll up for further information.
Description: As eupatria, but breast and abdomen feathers of both sexes with marked grey-white tinge; cheeks and nape (back of the neck) suffused with blue; broad pink band to
nape; larger | Length: Length: 62 cm (24.5 ins), wing length 200 - 240 mm (8 - 9.5 ins)
Distribution: Eastern Afghanistan, southern and eastern regions West Pakistan to northern and central India, Nepal, Bhutan, east Pakistan to Assam | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula eupatria nipalensis ... English: Nepalese Alexandrine Parakeet ... Dutch: Nepalese Alexanderparkiet ... German: Nördlicher Alexandersittich ... French: Perruche Alexandre de Nepal
Andaman Island Parakeets: Please scroll up for further information.:
Description: as eupatria, but breast and abdomen feathers in both sexes with grey-white tinge; broad pink band to nape (back of the neck) ; blue tinge to nape above pink band mostly very restricted, not occurring in some birds; shoulder patch lighter in many birds; bill larger and heavier; slightly larger |Length: 60 cm (24 ins), wing length 200 - 225 mm (8 - 9 ins)
Distribution: Andaman Islands | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula eupatria magnirostris ... English: Andaman Island Parakeet ... Dutch: Andaman Eiland Parkiet ... German: Andamanensittich ... French: Perruche Alexandre du Andaman
Species: Scientific: Psittacula eupatria magnirostris ... English: Andaman Island Parakeet ... Dutch: Andaman Eiland Parkiet ... German: Andamanensittich ... French: Perruche Alexandre du Andaman
Indo-Burmese Alexandrine Parakeets: Please scroll up for further information.
Description: as eupatria, but top of head and nape (back of the neck) is yellowish-green; blue tinge resticted to cheeks and absent from nape; band to nape narrow and pinker. | Length: 58 cm (23 ins), wing length 194 - 220 mm (7.5 - 8.5ins)
Distribution: Cachar district Assam, Burma south to Amherst | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula eupatria avensis ... English: Indo-Burmese Alexandrine Parakeet ... Dutch: Birmese Alexanderparkiet ... German: Birmesischer Alexandersittich ... French: Perruche Alexandre de Birmani
Laos Alexandrine Parakeets: Please scroll up for further information.
Description: as eupatria, but back of head and nape (back of the neck) is washed pale blue, extending to crown in some birds; cheeks yellow-green; band to nape (back of the neck) narrow and pinker; shoulder patch more reddish; slightly smaller. ... Length: 56 cm (22 ins), wing length 179 - 205 mm (7 - 8ins)
Distribution: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, northern and western Thailand | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula eupatria siamensis ... English: Laos Alexandrine Parakeet ... Dutch: Laos Alexanderparkiet ... German: Laos Alexandersittich ... French: Perruche Alexandre du Thailande
Species Research by Sibylle Johnson
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Young Birds:
Immature birds have shorter tails, light pink bills, and the incomplete cheek stripes easily distinguish
Young birds are difficult to sex, however, breeders have successfully identified males and females. The hen's head is more evenly arched from the cere to the back of the head. The young males tend to be flatter on the forehead. Hens appear to have a darker bluish face.
Personality / Mustached Parakeets as Pets :
The Mustached Parakeet is an intelligent and outgoing bird that is gaining increasing popularity worldwide. These parrots are outgoing and playful, and do well if properly socialized. They can be a bit bossy and aggressive, if not disciplined appropriately, but they can still make good first birds. They are very intelligent, and need a good size cage with plenty of toys to prevent boredom.
Though this bird is related to the Ringnecks, they are quite different in personality. They are reported to be mellower and not as noisy as the Ringnecks, though the Mustached Parakeet has been described as "feisty." They are generally calmer than the Indian and African Ringnecks as well as the Plumhead.
They are also excellent eaters and will readily sample new foods that other birds may pass up.
The Mustached Parakeet is related to the Ringneck Parakeets, and like them, they can often talk, though they are not as clear of speech as some of the larger parrots, such as the African Grey. However, they are reported to speak with more clarity than the Ringnecks.
It is important that Mustached Parakeets are handled regularly from a young age, as they can become aggressive, if they are not well socialized and handled regularly.
If you want a smaller parrot with a lot of personality, the Mustached Parakeet may be the bird for you. However, they are also "opinionated" and have been described as stubborn. Not surprisingly so, considering their intelligence. Obedience training is strongly recommended.
The Mustached Parakeet is a voracious chewer and should be provided plenty of chew toys. Other toys are also a must to stimulate this intelligent bird. If they are not given plenty of exciting toys, they will grow bored and behavioral problems can result.
Like other parrots they require companionship, and if you keep them singly you must be able and willing to spend large amounts of time with them. The same is true if you want to maintain their tameness. They should be handled regularly and be well socialized.
In the wild this bird is often seen in flocks of 10 to 50 individuals. These flocks may often be heard before they are seen. This is a fact that should be kept in mind before deciding to purchase a Mustache Parakeet.
Breeding hens may lay 3 to 4 eggs in each clutch which she incubates for about 22 days.
Traits: The Derbyan parakeet has an excellent talking ability. Although they may not learn extensive vocabularies, the clarity of their speech has been compared to that of Amazon parrots. They can be shy of human touch at first and have placid personalities.
Behavior/Health Concerns: This species is a very hard chewer and therefore needs a regular supply of things to chew on. Derbyan parakeets are rather noisy and should be given plenty of attention to prevent noise from becoming excessive.
Derbyan Parakeets or Derbyan Parrots :
The Derbyan Parakeet, Psittacula derbiana is endemic to Southeastern Tibet, northeastern India and southwestern China; and is now confined to small pockets of moist evergreen forest in the hills of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Chinese province on its border.
This species suffers from poaching for the illegal wildlife trade and fetches a high price in the black market. It is perhaps the rarest of all species of Psittacula in mainland Asia.
Their natural diet consists of fruits, berries, seeds and leaf buds.
Description:
The Derbyan Parakeet is larger than most parakeets. Adult Derbyans average 20 inches (50 centimeters). It is said to be similar in size to the popular Alexandrine Parakeet. These birds are sexually dimorphic, meaning that males and females may be distinguished visually.
The plumage is green with black lower cheeks and lores (the regions between the eyes and bill on the side of a bird's head). Parts of their thighs and wing covets are a mauve to slightly grey-blue and they have striking violet blue heads. Males have a red upper beak, while the females have an entirely black beak. They have pale yellow eyes and grey feet.
The female may also be distinguished from the male by the presence of a brown band behind the ear-coverts. Her abdomen plumage is, slightly paler and she has a black upper beak.
Immature Derbyan Parakeets are easily distinguished from adults because they have green crowns and napes, upper and lower beak in both males and females are pink. Additionally, their irises are dark, and do not get light until they reach maturity. Young males have a slightly paler abdomen plumage. Adult plumage is attained by two years.
Derbyans as a Pet and in Aviculture:
The Derbyan Parakeet is a popular pet because of its wonderful colored plumage, its intelligence and its excellent talking abilities, which differentiates it from other Asiatic Parakeets, who usually don't have the clarity of voice. Even though the Derbyans don't have the ability to learn an extensive vocabulary, the way they speak resembles the speech of the Amazon Parrots. This being said, there never are any guarantees that a Derbyan Parrot will learn to talk, but most do - even the females.
This is a very intelligent parrot that needs plenty of stimulation. It loves to chew and can be quite destructive, providing your Derbian with a variety of chew toys will inhibit destructive behavior. Additionally, they should be given a large number of toys, to help prevent boredom.
The Derbyan Parrot is also popular among aviculturists for several reasons, including its striking plumage, its ease of breeding and excellent parenting skills.
The Derbyan Parakeet reaches sexual maturity between 2 and 3 years of age. It has been reported that they may reach sexual maturity later in the wild, possibly as late as 5 years.
The Derbyan Parakeet makes an excellent parent and breeds readily in captivity. The typical breeding season will begin in April or June and clutch sizes average 2 - 4 eggs. The incubation period lasts for 23 - 28 days, and chicks fledge at 8 to 9 weeks of age.
Housing:
The Derbyan should either be kept in an aviary, or in a cage with plenty of supervised "out-of-cage" time. Derbyan's are social animals and like to be "part of a flock" -- which could be a group of birds in an aviary setting or a loving human family. Regular handling / plenty of interaction is required to maintain your Derbyan's tameness. Derbyan's are naturally shy of the human touch and are generally considered placid when compared to some other parakeets.
Derbyan Parakeets that are kept outdoors may require regular worming -- as they spend considerable time on the bottom of their aviaries or cages. Because of this habit, they are also susceptible to fungal infections. Good sanitation is particularly important for anyone keeping this parrot.
Taxonomy:
Species: Scientific: Psittacula derbyana aka Psittacula derbyana ... English: Derbyan Parakeet ... Dutch: Lord Derby's Parkiet, China Parkiet ... German: Chinasittich, Lord Derby's Edelsittich ... French: Perruche Derby ... CITES II - Endangered Species. Exact status not known
Distribution: north-eastern Assam, south-eastern Tibet, western China, western Szechwan, north-western Yunnan
Derbyan Parakeet (Psittacula derbiana)
Psittacula derbiana - female feeding her chick .
Moustached Parakeet :
courtesy to : www.birdchannel.com/bird-species/profiles
Moustached Parakeet Stats
Scientific Name: Psittacula alexandri
Size: Small, up to 13 inches
Native Region: India, China, Indonesia
Life Expectancy: 15 to 30 years
Noise Level: Moderate; one of the loudest Psittaculas
Talk/Trick Ability: Fair
Moustached Parakeet Species Profile :
Traits: With vibrant plumage, moustached parakeets are often considered elegant and lovely. They are one of the smaller members to the Psittacula genus. While not usually popular as companion birds due to their noise level, they are often kept as aviary birds. Moustached parakeets are also chewers and often damage household funishings.
Behavior/Health Concerns: Moustached parakeets needs a varied diet consisting of pellets, vegetables and plenty of fruit. Moustached parakeets also need plenty of space. Five of the eight known subspecies of moustached parakeets are sexually dimorphic. The males of these sexually dimorphic subspecies have a red upper mandible and females have black beaks. They do not make ideal pet birds, instead are admired as aviary birds.
Mustached / Moustached / Java-moustached Parakeets
The Moustached or Mustached Parakeet(Psittacula alexandri alexandri) - also known as the Java Mustached or Red-breasted Parakeet - is endemic to the Himalayas and southern China to Indonesia.
The Mustached Parakeet is the nominate form of eight different subspecies.
The average lifespan of the Mustached Parakeet is 20 to 25 years.
Description:
The Mustached / Moustached Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot, averaging 13 - 16 inches in length (33 - 40 cm) and weighing it at 100 to 130 grams at maturity.
Its most distinguishing feature is its moustache-like markings on the sides of its face, resembling a moustache. In most subspecies of Moustached Parakeets, the males have red beaks and the females have black.
Males:
The male Moustached Parakeet is attractively shaped, slim, with a long and thin tail, green plumage, a grey head, red bill, and distinguishing markings on its head and face. The area around the eyes is greenish and his heads have a pretty bluish tinge. There is a thin line across its forehead and wide stripes on his cheeks. The plumage on the breasts, throat and upper abdomen is pink / salmon extending half way to the vent.
Females:
The hen has a bluish tinge through the face region. They generally have a duller pink color on their chests and their middle tail feathers are shorter than the male's feathers.
Distribution / Habitat:
The Mustached Parakeet is among the more widespread species of the genus and is the species which has the most geographical variations. Most of the subspecies are confined to small islands or a cluster of islands in Indonesia. One subspecies occurs in the Andaman islands, India and one subspecies occurs in continental South East Asia and partly extending to North-eastern parts of South Asia along the foothills of the Himalayas. Some of the island races may be threatened by the wild bird trade. The nominate race which occurs in Java is close to extinction. Feral populations of this species have now established themselves in cities like Mumbai and small numbers occur in other cities such as Chennai and Bangalore in India.
Breeding and Propagation:
The Mustached Parakeets are commonly bred in captivity. They reach maturity somewhere between 2 and 3 years of age. It is recommended that birds be paired up at a young age. The female may at times dominate the males. Courtship starts in late winter and the hens can be seen begging the males to feed them.
In the wild they breed between the months of December and April, though this is variable depending on the weather and altitude. A thick-walled hollow log can be provided as a nesting box. If not available, a commercially available nesting box should suffice.
They require long aviaries, rather than wide, as they are strong, straight flyers. They also like a protected area when breeding. The entry-door to the aviary should be at the opposite end. Double-wire between flights is recommended to prevent birds in adjoining aviaries from biting each other - especially during breeding season.
Egg laying generally commences early spring and clutches vary from 2 to 4 eggs, which are incubated for about 22 days. The young fledge in 52 days. Palm fronds should be placed at the aviary front and leafy branches must be placed at the back to protect the fledging young from hurting themselves as they hit the aviary walls and fall to the aviary floors. If this is not done, many of the young will die of head injuries or severely damage their scalps. Fledging chicks don't have a great amount of control as they start flying.
The young can be left in with the parents for 9 months, but must then be removed as the parent will be ready to bred again. The young wean at 12 - 14 weeks.
Rearing food is very important, such as sprouted sunflower seed, soaked chick peas, diced apple, celery, raw or boiled corn, green feed, s well as shell grit, coarse sand and pieces of charcole. Supplementing with multi-vitamisn and liquid calcium is especially important prior to egg laying.
Ringneck Parrots are generally hardy birds. However, the following diseases have been reported in this species:
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Bacterial infections (pneumonia)
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Hypovitaminosis A
Relevant Resources:
Taxonomy and Other Data:
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri alexandri aka Palaeornis alexandri alexandri ... English: Moustached Parakeet, Javan Parakeet ... Dutch: Roseborstparkiet, Alexander Parkiet ... German: Rosebrustbartsittich ... French: Perruche barbe
Sub-Species / Races Including Nominate: alexandri, fasciata, abbotti, cala, major, perionca, dammermani, kangeanensis | CITES II - Endangered Species
Detailed Description: green; head grey with marked bluish tinge; eye area washed with green; chin, broad cheek-stripe and narrow line over forehead to eye black; throat, breast and upper abdomen salmon-pink; lower abdomen and under tail-coverts green with variable blue tinge; median wing-coverts green-yellow; under wing-coverts pale green; upperside of middle tail-feathers blue with green-yellow tips, outer tail-feathers blue-green; tail underside dirty olive-yellowish; upper and lower beaks are red with pale tip; iris pale yellow; feet grey. Female as male with red upper and lower beaks, but salmon-pink breast duller; middle tail-feathers on average shorter. Immatures green with whitish forehead and incomplete black cheek-stripe; median wing-coverts with yellow-green tinge; tail noticeably shorter; bill pale red
Sub-species:
Andaman Moustached Parakeets:
Description: As Indian Moustached / Indian Red-breasted Parakeets, but plumage generally much paler; grey head with only light lilac-blue tinge; breast and upper abdomen pale salmon-pink washed lightly with lilac-blue; upper beak is red, lower beak is black; larger. Female as male, but breast and abdomen without lilac-blue tinge; pink extends up to side of neck; upper and lower beaks is black. |Length: 36 cm (14 ins), wing length 163 - 181 mm (6.5 - 7 ins)
Distribution: Andaman Islands | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri abbotti aka Palaeornis alexandri abbotti ... English: Andaman Moustached Parakeet ... Dutch: Andaman Roseborstparkiet ... German: Andamanen Bartsittich ... French: Perruche barbe du Abbott
Babi Moustached Parakeets:
Description: As Indian Moustached / Indian Red-breasted Parakeets, but plumage slightly paler; grey head without bluish tinge; forehead and eye areas without green tinge; breast and upper abdomen darker pink; less salmon-colour and without lilac-blue tinge; upper beak is red, lower beak is black; noticeably larger. Female as male but upper and lower beak is black. | Length: 38 cm (15ins), wing length 187 - 203 mm (7.5 - 8 ins)
Distribution: Lasia and Babi Islands, Indonesia | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri major aka Palaeornis alexandri major ... English: Babi Moustached Parakeet ... Dutch: Babi Roseborstparkiet ... German: Babi Bartsittich ... French: Perruche barbe du Lasia
Indian Moustached / Indian Red-breasted Parakeets:
Description: As nominate Mustached Parakeet featured above, but breast and upper abdomen darker pink and washed lightly lilac-blue; head uniformly grey-blue; eye and forehead areas with greenish tinge; lower abdomen green lightly tinged blue; upper beak is red, lower beak is black. Female as male, but breast and upper abdomen darker pink without lilac-blue tinge; pink extends up to sides of neck; upper and lower beaks are black. Immatures with grey head and black forehead and cheek markings; but without pink breast; bill pink until 14 days after leaving nest, then becomes dark brown; final colour attained at 12 months. | Length: 33 cm (13 ins), wing length 153 - 171 mm (6 - 6.5 ins)
Distribution: northern India from Dehra Dun area eastwards over Nepal to Assam, East Pakistan, Bangla Desh, Burma, Thailand, Indochina and southern China in the provinces of Yunnan and Kwangsi; also Hainan Island and Mergui Archipelago. | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri fasciata aka Palaeornis alexandri fasciata ... English: Indian Moustached Parakeet ... Dutch: Baard Parkiet ... German: Cochinchina Rosenbrustbartsittich ... French: Perruche barbe à la poitrine rose
Kangean Moustached Parakeets:
Description: As nominate Mustached Parakeet featured above,
but with only faint blue tinge to head; median wing-coverts yellowish; bill heavier; upper and lower beaks in both sexes are red. | Length: 33 cm (13 ins), wing length 158 - 161 mm (6 - 6.5 ins)
Distribution: Kangean Islands, Indonesia | CITES II - Endangered Species
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri kangeanensis aka Palaeornis alexandri kangeanensis ... English: Kangean Moustached Parakeet ... Dutch: Kangean Roseborstparkiet ... German: Kangean Rosenbrustbartsittich ... French: Perruche barbe ... First description : Hoogerwerf 1962
Nias Moustached Parakeets:
Description: As Indian Moustached / Indian Red-breasted Parakeets, but plumage slightly paler; grey head without bluish tinge; forehead and eye areas without green tinge; breast and upper abdomen darker pink, less salmon-colored and without lilac-blue tinge; lower abdomen paler and more yellowish-green; upper beak is red, lower beak is black; larger. Female as male, but upper and lower beaks are black. | Length: 37 cm (14.5 ins), wing length 171 - 194 mm (6.5 - 7.5ins)
CITES II - Endangered Species: populations reduced by trapping for trade. Common in aviculture |Distribution: Nisas Island, Indonesia
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri perionca aka Palaeornis alexandri perionca ... English: Nias Moustached Parakeet ... Dutch: Nias Roseborstparkiet ... German: Nias Bartsittich ... French: Perruche barbe du Nias
Simeuluean Moustached Parakeets:
Description: As Indian Moustached / Indian Red-breasted Parakeets, but plumage slightly paler;forehead and eye areas without green tinge; breast and upper abdomen darker pink, less salmon-colour and without lilac-blue tinge; lower abdomen strongly washed pale blue; upper beak is red, lower beak is black; slightly larger. Female as male, but upper and lower beak are black. | Length: 36 cm (14 ins), wing length 168 - 185 mm (6.5 -7 ins)
Species: Scientific: Psittacula alexandri cala aka Palaeornis alexandri cala ... English: Simeuluean Moustached Parakeet ... Dutch: Simeulue Roseborstparkiet German: Simeulue Bartsittich | CITES II - Endangered Species
Slaty-Headed Parakeet Stats
Scientific Name: Psittacula himalayana
Size: 15.5 to 16 inches
Native Region: Western Himalayas to Eastern Afghanistan to Vietnam
Life Expectancy: 25 to 30 years
Noise Level: Moderate
Talk/Trick Ability: Low talking ability; fair trick ability
Traits: The slaty-headed parakeet makes an excellent pet for those who understand its needs and its nature. Initially, this species can be shy and even nervous, but with proper socialization they can become calm and confiding with their owners. Because they tend to get along well with other birds, they can be housed in communal aviaries even with smaller birds. While they do not generally learn to speak, they make melodious chattering sounds and are comfortable with owners who gain their trust.
Behavior/Health Concerns: Slaty-headed parakeets are susceptible to wet, cold conditions, so care should be taken to keep the temperature in their environment warm and consistent. Younger birds in particular are more sensitive to climate changes. They need a wide variety of seed mix in their diet, along with millet, fruit, greens, vegetables, as well as eggfood. Immature birds of this species need a vitamin-C supplement during their first year. Slaty-headed parakeets can be very aggressive toward other Psittacula to other species, especially plum-headed parakeets, during breeding season.
Slaty headed parakeet at Manali - Psittacula himalayana- Part 1
The natural range of the Slaty-headed Parakeet (Psittacula himalayana) extends from the foothills of Western Himalayas to Arunachal Pradesh (Eastern Afghanistan to Vietnam). They migrate down to the valleys for the winters, usually during the last week of October.
Description:
The slaty-headed parakeet averages 15.5 - 16 inches (~40 cm) in length, with the tail being ~ 6 to 7 inches (~158 to 178 mm) long. Slatyheads are bigger than Plumheads. The hens are slightly smaller than the cock, the body approximately the same size as that of an Eastern Rosella.
A variety of mutations have been produced, including blue, olive, lutino and albino.
The original (natural) slaty-headed parakeet has a mostly green plumage. The head, however, is dark grey with a slight bluish hue, There are black stripes to the cheeks and a narrow band to nape, with an adjoining bluish-green band. There is a dark red patch to the wing-coverts. The under wing-coverts are greenish-blue. The middle tail-feathers are blue with a green base and yellow tips. The upper beak is red with a yellow tip. The lower beak is yellowish. The irises are whitish and the feet grey.
Females are either without or with a greatly reduced dark red patch to the wing-coverts.
Immatures have greenish head and brownish-green cheeks. There is a narrow green band to the nape. The upper and lower beaks are horn-colored with a brownish base to the lower beak. They attain their adult plumage when they are about 30 months old.
Slaty-headed Parakeets as Pets:
Slaty-headed parakeets make excellent pets for owners who understand and meet their needs. Some may learn to talk.
Ringneck parrots are less demanding than other parrot species, which makes them an excellent choice for someone who wants to "step up" from an easy-going and easy-care cockatiel or budgie.
Housing:
They are rather active, and enjoy climbing and playing. To accommodate their need for exercise, they should be provided a roomy cage that allows them to move around freely and toys to entertain themselves with - preferably the size of an Amazon or even Macaw cage. Info on Housing Your Bird
Diet:
A good quality small parrot mix, in addition to fruits, vegetables, soaked seed consisting of mung beans, milo, wheat and sunflower - and green food, such as dandelions, chicory and endives should be provided.
Sprouted or germinated seeds are usually more easily accepted by "seed addicts" than fresh fruits and vegetables.
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Sprouted seeds are healthier as the sprouting changes and enhances the nutritional quality and value of seeds and grains. Sprouted seeds are lower in fat, as the process of sprouting utilizes the fat in the seed to start the growing process - thus reducing the fat stored in the seeds.
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Sprouted seeds will help balance your bird’s diet by adding a nutritious supply of high in vegetable proteins, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and chlorophyll.
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Soaked and germinated "oil" seeds, like niger and rape seeds, are rich in protein and carbohydrates; while "starch" seeds, such as canary and millets, are rich in carbohydrates, but lower in protein.
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It is an invaluable food at all times; however, it is especially important for breeding or molting birds. Sprouted seeds also serve as a great rearing and weaning food as the softened shell is easier to break by chicks and gets them used to the texture of seeds.
Training / Behavioral Guidance:
Consistent training and behavioral guidance from a young age is recommended to ensure potential owners enjoy a bird free of destructive and annoying habits.
Breeding:
Breeding activities may begin at the end of July, August or early September. Average clutch size is 4 to 6 eggs and incubation lasts 24 to 25 days. Only the hen incubates, and the male feeds her in the nest. The young fledge at about 6 weeks. It is recommended to check on the chicks to make sure that they are properly fed and attended to. If the parents lack the necessary parenting skills, fostering may become necessary. However, in the rule, they make excellent parents.
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Advice and Tips on Breeding Birds.
Ringneck Parrots are generally hardy birds. However, the following diseases have been reported in this species:
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Bacterial infections (pneumonia)
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Hypovitaminosis A
Relevant Resources:
Taxonomy:
Species: Scientific: Psittacula himalayana aka Psittacula himalayana himalayana ... English: Slaty-headed Parakeet, Black-headed Parakeet ... Dutch: Grijskopparkiet ... German: Schwarzkopfedelsittich, Himalayasittich ... French: Perruche à tête gris | CITES II- Endangered Species
Sub-species:
Finsch's Parakeets:
The Finsch's Parakeet, also known as the Grey-headed Parakeet (Psittacula finschii) is closely related to the Slaty-headed Parakeet (described above) which together form a super-species. It occurs from the North-eastern states of India, into Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. The binomial of this bird commemorates the German naturalist and explorer Otto Finsch.
Description: as himalayana - described above, but generally more yellowish; head less bluish; under wing-coverts dark bluish-green; middle tail-feathers violet-blue with yellowish-white tips; smaller, but tail as long as himalayana | Length: 36 cm (14 ins), wing length 140 - 152 mm (5.5 - 6 ins)
Species: Scientific: Psittacula finschii aka Psittacula himalayana finschii ... English: Grey-headed Parakeet, Finsch's Parakeet ... Dutch: Finsch' Parkiet ... German: Finsch Edelsittich, Burma Schwarzkopfedelsittich ... French: Perruche à tête gris de Finsch
Distribution: Ceylon, southern India north to about Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh | CITES II - Endangered Species
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