vicaviary

Plum-headed Parakeet

Description

1. Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Psittacula cyanocephala
  • Common Names: Plum-headed Parakeet
  • Family: Psittaculidae
  • Named After: The distinctive plum-colored head in males, which gives the species its name.

2. Physical Description

  • Size: Small to medium-sized parakeet, measuring 33 cm (13 inches) in length, including the tail.
  • Weight: Approximately 75–90 grams.
  • Plumage:
    • Males: Bright plum-colored head, green body, bluish-green back, and yellowish underside.
    • Females: Bluish-grey head with a less vibrant overall coloration.
    • Both sexes have a distinct black neck ring and a pale yellow tip on the tail.
  • Distinctive Features:
    • Beak: Red upper mandible and a pale yellow lower mandible in males; females’ beaks are paler.
    • Tail: Long, pointed, and colorful, with shades of blue and green.

3. Natural Habitat and Distribution

  • Native Range: Found across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
  • Habitat: Prefers light woodlands, open forests, cultivated areas, and urban gardens. Often seen in lower altitudes but can adapt to hilly regions up to 1,500 meters.

4. Behavior and Diet

  • Social Structure: Typically seen in small flocks but can gather in larger groups during feeding.
  • Vocalization: Known for melodious, high-pitched chirps and whistles.
  • Diet:
    • Wild Diet: Fruits, seeds, nuts, berries, and blossoms.
    • Captivity Diet: A mix of high-quality pellets, fresh fruits (e.g., guava, mango), vegetables, and occasional seeds.

5. Lifespan and Reproduction

  • Lifespan: 20–25 years with proper care.
  • Breeding:
    • Season: Breeds during the dry season, typically from December to April.
    • Nesting: Nests in tree cavities or artificial nest boxes.
    • Clutch Size: 4–6 eggs per clutch.
    • Incubation: Eggs are incubated for about 21–23 days.

6. Talking Ability

  • Clarity: Their speech is moderately clear but not as refined as larger parrots.
  • Vocabulary: They can learn a small repertoire of words and short phrases.

7. Suitability as Pets

Considerations: They require dedicated care, including a balanced diet and ample mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

Care Requirements:

Require medium-sized cages with plenty of perches and toys for mental stimulation.

Thrive with regular interaction and socialization.

Personality: Gentle, playful, and affectionate. They are less noisy compared to other parakeet species, making them suitable for quieter households.