Quaker Parrot Facts, Behavior and Health Care Info

In many warm climates, Quaker parrots can be seen and heard flying around in large flocks. These parrots have been able to colonize in places like Florida and California. In many of these places, Quaker parrots have caused farmers no end of grief by damaging their crops. This has prompted the passing of legislation that bans the ownership of these birds in many regions. In spite of this, many people do keep Quaker parrots as pets. if you’re looking at buying one, make sure they are legal in your area first.

Behavior and Characteristics
Quaker parrots typically have a good capacity for learning to speak. Although they will not speak as well as some of the larger species, like the African grey, they can easily learn many words and phrases. This is one species of parrot that may not be a good idea for apartment living. They tend to be quite loud and boisterous, and will certainly wake you and your neighbors up each morning with their loud squawking.

Quaker parrots are actually members of the conure family, and are quite affectionate and playful, like most conures. These birds will be great companions for the entire family, since they do not mind spending time with more than one person. Quakers are usually content just to hang out with you and your family, or just pass the time by sitting on your shoulder.

Appearance
Quakers have developed many different coloration patterns after years of domestication. The most common is the gray and green, which also happens to be the most affordable. Other varieties that are more expensive and rare include blue, yellow, pied, albino, cinnamon and lutino. Whichever color you decide on will make an entertaining and attractive addition to your family.

Quaker Care Info
Once you’ve decided on a Quaker, there are a few things to consider when shopping for a cage. Your bird’s beak will be extremely powerful so you will need a cage made from heavy wire. These birds can easily destroy a normal cage that many other types of birds use. A metal apron is also recommended, since the Quaker tends to be a very messy bird. Without the apron, you will constantly be cleaning seeds and feathers off of your floor. You also may want to consider an acrylic cage to help contain the mess these guys make.

Quakers love to play with toys, but with their powerful beaks and desire to chew, they can go through them pretty regularly. Make sure you spend time interacting with your bird and give him plenty of things to do while he is alone. If you don’t, he may begin plucking out his feathers out of boredom. Quakers are known for this type of behavior.

The Quaker will make an entertaining and affectionate pet for the whole family, if you don’t mind the noise. It’s highly recommended that you check out a few of these birds and talk to someone who has experience with them before buying one.

         

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