Echo's Haven
Macaw Rescue
Sanctuary
The Complete
Bird Community
Our goal is to provide a free-flight home for formerly abused, unwanted or problem Macaws.
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Echo's Haven |
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Our goal is to provide a free-flight home for formerly abused, unwanted or problem Macaws. |
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by Len LaRiccia
Pionus Parrots originated in South America. There are four common types of these interesting birds:
-Maxamillion (very sweet)
-White Capped
-Blue Headed (also sweet)
-Bronze Wing
Pionus Parrots make wonderful apartment birds. Their quiet, peaceful and laid-back dispositions make them easy to keep, even in the strictest pet-friendly buildings. Pionus Parrots do not make great talkers, but they do have the ability to speak and will even whistle when the urge strikes them.
These birds have a very distinctive "forest" odor. As they age, the smell grows stronger. They also have a beautiful red patch just below their vent, in the shape of a "V".
Pionus Parrots lay three or four eggs at a time, and it will take 26 days for the babies to hatch. In the wild, these parrots make their nests in tree hollows. At your house, they will prefer to be kept in at least a 24"x24" cage. Their cage should always contain cuttlebone and lots of toys to help them entertain themselves. Fruits, veggies, seeds and small nuts make up their normal, healthy diet.
Caring for a Pionus Parrot is relatively simple. While these birds are, by nature, well tempered and affectionate, good socialization is extremely important when your bird is young, to insure you don’t end up with an uncontrollable or bratty bird!
If you’re interested in purchasing a Pionus Parrot, keep in mind the following prices, to be used as a general guide (all of the prices refer to the suggested prices of baby parrots):
-Maxamillion-$400
-White Capped-$450
-Blue Headed-$700
-Bronze Wing-$700
As with most birds, Pionus Parrots have a long life span. Bird Crazy suggests you consider your choice of pet very carefully before making what can be a very long commitment. Pionus Parrots have a normal life span of 40 years. That’s a long time to care for, love, and maintain any pet. Make sure you purchase your bird from a reputable dealer. It’s next to impossible to determine the age of a bird. Some birds will go deaf, develop wrinkles and cataracts as they grow older, but in most cases, there won’t be any easily recognizable signs of age.
For more information on these or other birds, visit Bird Crazy at 8868 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, or email Bird Crazy at len@birdcrazy.com.
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