Poicephalus...Parrots of Africa

Senegal Parrot	Jardine's Parrot

 

The parrot Genus Poicephalus includes eight species. All these parrots are from Africa and measure about 9 inches, except the Cape or brown-necked parrot which is in danger of becoming extinct and measures about 13 inches. The most commonly kept species include:-

Senegal Parrot ( Poicephalus senegalus) - three subspecies. Length 9 inches.
Jardine's Parrot (Poicehalus gulielmi) - four subspecies.Length 11 inches
Meyer's Parrot - or Brown Parrot (Poicephalus meyeri) - six subspecies. Length 8-9 inches.
Red-bellied (Poicephalus rufiventris) Length 9 inches

All the parrots in this group are swift and agile fliers so need plenty of space. Despite their small size, the small Poicephalus are very strong-willed birds that need a lot of attention. All species can become accomplished mimics. Some become extremely attached to one person to the exclusion of all others. They have big personalities for their size and are not as loud as larger parrots, yet voices can be harsh. Tame birds love to be handled. These parrots when not tame can be extremely snappy and will bite!

Diet:- A good variety of foods should be offered. Soaked sunflower seed, boiled maize, sprouted mung beans, peanuts, pine nuts, a mixture of small seeds. Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables should be part of their daily diet. These can include, corn on the cob, dark greens, green beans, carrot, red bell peppers, fresh peas, apple, orange, pear, grapes banana and pomegranate. Also try, cracked walnuts and hawthorn berries.

©2004