The red-bellied parrot is commonly found in countries like Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia. One of the smaller kinds of the parrot family, this bird is sexually dimorphic with a robust coloration.
Red Bellied Parrots
Scientific Classification |
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| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Superfamily | Psittacoidea |
| Family | Psittacidae |
| Subfamily | Psittacinae |
| Genus | Poicephalus |
| Scientific Name | Poicephalus rufiventris |
Quick Information |
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| Other name | African red –bellied parrot |
| Size | 8-9 in(20-23cm) |
| Weight | Around 125 grams |
| Color | Greenish gray body, blue rump, gray head, beak and legs, red iris. Males have orange belly while females have a green belly. Babies have dark eyes which change to red as they age. |
| Distribution | East Africa |
| Habitat | Dry savannah, woodlands and acacia forests |
| Sound | High pitched sound and mimicry |
| Clutch | 3-4 eggs |
| Incubation period | Around 28 days |
| Fledging | After 63 days |
| Lifespan | 35 years approx |
| Diet | Fruits and nuts |
| IUCN Conservation Status | Least Concern |
Red Belly Parrot
Red Bellied Parrot Pictures
As pets
Blessed with a jocund personality, this bird has become a well-regarded human companion.
Housing
A roomy cage sizing 18x18x24 inches with at least two perches should be provided for your pet. You may provide an outdoor cage so that it can feel fresh air and daylight. Throw in some chewable toys inside the cage.
Temperature
Average room temperature will be fine for your red-bellied parrot.
Behavior
These jovial birds engross themselves into playful activities with toys inside the cage. Most of them can imitate words and other sounds. It is important to let them mingle with all your family members, to avoid the sole attachment with one person.
Hanging on one toe and lying on their back are their favorite postures. Sometimes they become nippy, but that is manageable if you have a good rapport with your pet.
Red-Bellied Parrot
Red Bellied Parrot
Feeding
Fresh vegetables, fruits, seeds and pelleted diet will suffice the dietary need of your pet. For seed only diet, provide your pet vitamin supplements.
Care
Your pet requires daily bath for maintaining its beautiful plumage. Make sure to clip its feather up to the point that will help it glide instead of flying.
Heath problems
Psittacosis, aspergillosis, psittacine beak and feather disease, and calcium deficiency are the most common ailments a red-bellied parrot can suffer from. Check up by a professional vet under such circumstances is recommended.
Price
A red-bellied parrot costs around $400-$600.
Red Bellied Parrot Baby
Red Bellied Parrot Female
Interesting fact
- It is named red-bellied parrot in spite of its orange belly because the term orange was not included into English vocabulary while it was discovered.
Video: Red-bellied parrot talking
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