vicaviary

Derbyan Parakeet (Lord Derby’s Parakeet)

Description

1. Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Psittacula derbiana
  • Common Names: Derbyan Parakeet, Lord Derby’s Parakeet
  • Family: Psittaculidae
  • Named After: Edward Stanley, 13th Earl of Derby, a British naturalist and collector.

2. Physical Description

  • Size: Large parakeet, measuring 40–50 cm (16–20 inches) in length, including the tail.
  • Weight: Approximately 200–240 grams.
  • Plumage:
    • Bluish-purple head.
    • Green body with darker green wings and back.
    • Pale yellow underside of the tail.
  • Distinctive Features:
    • Facial Markings: Black patch extending from the beak to below the eyes.
    • Beak: Males have a bright red upper mandible and a yellow lower mandible; females have a black beak.
    • Tail: Long and tapered with shades of blue and green.

3. Natural Habitat and Distribution

  • Native Range: Found in the forests of northeast India, southwestern China, and parts of Tibet.
  • Habitat: Prefers montane forests and subtropical woodlands, typically at altitudes of 1,500–4,000 meters.

4. Behavior and Diet

  • Social Structure: Usually seen in pairs or small flocks in the wild.
  • Vocalization: Known for loud, high-pitched calls and chatter.
  • Diet:
    • Wild Diet: Seeds, fruits, berries, nuts, and blossoms.
    • Captivity Diet: A balanced diet of pellets, fresh fruits (e.g., pomegranate, grapes), vegetables, and occasional nuts or seeds.

5. Lifespan and Reproduction

  • Lifespan: 25–30 years with proper care.
  • Breeding:
    • Season: Breeds in the spring or early summer.
    • Nesting: Nests in tree cavities, laying 2–4 eggs per clutch.
    • Incubation: Eggs are incubated for about 23–25 days.

6. Talking Ability

  • Clarity: Their speech is clearer than many parrot species, making their mimicry easy to understand.
  • Vocabulary: They can learn a wide range of words and phrases with consistent training.

7. Suitability as Pets

Considerations: Their loud calls and active nature require dedicated care and an experienced owner.

Care Requirements:

Need a spacious cage or aviary and plenty of toys for mental stimulation.

Require regular interaction and attention from their owners.

Personality: Intelligent, curious, and social. They can form strong bonds with their human companions.