ECLECTUS PARROTS

Eclectus-Soloman-Island

The Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus) is native to the Solomon Islands, New Guinea, northeastern Australia, and the Maluku Islands (Moluccas). It exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism, where males are bright green with candy corn-colored beaks, while females are red-headed and blue-breasted with black beaks. Early European ornithologists even thought they were different species due to this distinct dimorphism.

Physical Characteristics:

  • Males: Bright emerald green plumage, candy corn-colored beaks, blue or red tail and wing feathers.
  • Females: Deep red/purple plumage, red-headed, blue-breasted, and black beaks.

Habitat and Behavior:

  •  Inhabit nutrient-rich canopy of lowland rainforests.
  • Hen’s vibrant colors make her hard to see against the canopy.
  •  Noted by calls rather than colors.

Eclectus as Pets:

  •  Most sexually dimorphic parrot species.
  • Highly intelligent, capable of cognitive behaviour.
  •  Inquisitive nature due to rainforest canopy life.
  • Developed complex breeding culture, naturally suited as pets.
  • Prefer calm environment, notice changes in surroundings.

Personality and Variations:

  •  Described as boring, dull, and shy due to misunderstood stress reactions.
  • Both males and females make excellent pets.
  •  Variations in subspecies’ behaviors and personalities.
  •  Males less aggressive, females more aggressive.

Communication and Sounds:

  • Wide range of sounds, including bell tones, coos, whistles, and more.
  •  Clear vocalization of words and phrases.
  • Ability to scream or screech when frightened, disturbed, or excited.

Care and Feeding:

  •  Need large or suspended aviaries in captivity.
  • Provide roomy cage if kept indoors, with plenty of out-of-cage time.
  • Prone to stress-induced feather plucking; offer toys and diverting activities.

Toe Tapping/Wing Flipping:

  • Toe-tapping observed, possibly due to ingesting foreign objects or certain foods.
  • Causes may include fortified food items, pellets, and stress.
  • Course of action involves removing potential causes, providing organic foods, and vet consultation.

Training and Behavioral Guidance:

  •  Intelligent and great talkers.
  • Require proper training to address challenges like excessive chewing, biting, and screaming.
  • Females tend to be more aggressive; training is crucial to prevent dominating behavior.