Quaker Parrot
April 17, 2009 by admin
Filed under Bird Breeds
[ad#blod-ad]
Having the scientific name Myiopsitta monachus, the Quaker Parrot is also known as Quaker Parakeet or Monk Parakeet. They are native to South America, with some colonies established in some regions of the United States.
In general, they have about 12 inches in length from beak to tail, and weigh between 80 and 150 grams. You can expect them to live 20 – 30 years in captivity, if the care they’re given is good.
Quakers are sociable and confident birds. There is nothing more they love than to be with their “flock” and sing and talk. Everybody knows their high ability to talk. When they are captive, they will tend to bond very closely with one person, because of their loyal nature. The Quakers are gentle birds, very calm and this is why many owners feed them right from the hand. They are great pets for younger bird owners.
The normal colors of a Quaker bird are green on the head, back and wings, with a bit of white/grey on the chest and face. Many of them have great looking blue feathers and a green tinge on the tails underside. Also, the breeders have produced in captivity a variety of beautiful color mutations.
Although small, the Quakers are extremely good eaters and they love to chew on fresh fruits and vegetables, and do well in captivity when this diet is supplemented with quality commercial pellets and seed. Because they are greedy with the food, many Quakers might get overweight if allowed to eat too many nuts and seeds. This is why, their ideal diet needs to be balanced and made of: legumes, fresh greens, pasta, and other vegetables as a main food source.
The Quakers are very active birds, and they need to have an adequate amount of space in which to play. Also, they enjoy having many toys to chew from and use as “exercise equipment”. Time outside the cage is also very important to keep them happy and physically fit.
Known for their comical and charming personalities, plus the fact that they can learn human speech, these parrots can be a great choice for a person who wants a small loving parrot. They are very sociable and don