Quick Facts
Basic Information
- Scientific Name: Psephotus haematonotus
- Average Lifespan: 15-20 years (can be up to 32)
- Size: 27-28 cm (10.5-11 inches)
- Weight: 55-85 grams
- Colors: Male: Bright green, yellow underparts, blue wings, red rump. Female: Duller olive-green, green rump.
Care Requirements
- Cage Size: Min. 76cm L x 50cm W x 50cm H for a pair. Bar spacing max 1/2 inch.
- Temperature Range: Room temperature (18-25°C).
- Diet: Pellets (50%), fresh fruit/veg (40%), seeds (10%).
- Social Needs: Best kept as a single pair; can be aggressive to own kind.
Costs (NZ$)
- Purchase Price: $100 - $250 (estimate)
- Monthly Care: $15 - $30 (estimate)
- Initial Setup: $100 - $200 (estimate)
Image Gallery
Detailed Information
Characteristics & Personality
Red-rumped Parrots, native to southeastern Australia, are energetic and curious birds. Males are strikingly colored with an emerald green body and a distinctive red rump, while females are more subdued in olive-green. They are known for their relatively quiet and pleasant vocalizations, often described as soft chirps and tweets, making them more suitable for apartment living than louder parrot species. While they can be affectionate with their owners if hand-reared or well-socialized, they are generally not as demanding of attention as some larger parrots. They are best kept as a single pair as they can exhibit aggression towards other Red-rumped Parrots, especially during breeding season.
Positive Traits
- Beautiful plumage, especially the males
- Relatively quiet with pleasant calls
- Suitable for beginners to parrot keeping
- Can be housed in moderately sized cages or aviaries
- Less demanding than larger parrot species
Challenges
- Can be aggressive towards other Red-rumped Parrots; best kept as a single pair
- Not known for strong talking ability or extensive mimicry
- Can be stubborn to train for complex tricks
- May not be as overtly cuddly as some other parrot species
Care Guide
Housing Requirements
A spacious cage allowing for some flight is ideal. Minimum dimensions for a pair would be 76cm L x 50cm W x 50cm H, but larger is always better. Bar spacing should be no more than 1/2 inch. Provide multiple perches of varying diameters (natural branches are excellent) and a variety of toys to keep them stimulated. Red-rumps enjoy bathing, so a shallow birdbath should be provided regularly.
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced diet is crucial. Aim for approximately 50% high-quality pellets formulated for parakeets, 40% fresh fruits (apples, pears, berries) and vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, peas, broccoli), and about 10% good quality seed mix (millet, canary seed, with minimal sunflower seeds). Cuttlebone and mineral blocks should be available. Always provide fresh, clean water.
Health & Wellness
Red-rumped Parrots are generally hardy birds. Maintaining a clean environment, providing a balanced diet, and offering opportunities for exercise and bathing are key to their health. Regular observation for signs of illness such as lethargy, changes in droppings, or fluffed feathers is important. Consult an avian vet if you have concerns.
Training & Intelligence
Red-rumped Parrots are intelligent but can be somewhat stubborn when it comes to training for complex behaviors. Positive reinforcement and patience are key. They can bond well with their owners through gentle interaction and hand-feeding (if hand-reared).
Training Difficulty
Moderate - They are not typically trained for extensive tricks or speech. Focus on building a bond and basic interactions.
Speech & Vocalizations
They are not renowned for mimicking human speech. Their natural calls consist of soft, pleasing chirps, tweets, and whistles, making them one of the quieter parrot species.
Buying Guide
Best Time to Buy
Spring and early summer are often good times to find young birds. Consider acquiring a compatible pair if you intend to keep more than one, as introducing adult birds can be challenging.
Where to Buy in Christchurch
- Reputable breeders who specialize in Australian parakeets
- Christchurch Bird Club members may have birds available or can offer recommendations
- Some specialist pet stores
What to Look For
- Bright, clear eyes and clean nostrils
- Smooth, vibrant feathers (note the difference between male and female plumage)
- Active and alert behavior
- Clean vent area
- If purchasing a pair, observe their interaction to ensure compatibility
Is This Bird Right For You?
Ideal Owner Profile
The Red-rumped Parrot is well-suited for individuals or families who appreciate the beauty and relatively calm demeanor of a smaller parrot. They are a good choice for beginner parrot owners or those who prefer a bird that is not overly demanding of constant hands-on attention, especially if kept as a pair. Their quieter nature makes them suitable for various living situations, including apartments.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Enjoys observing birds and listening to their gentle vocalizations
- Can provide a suitably sized cage and opportunities for exercise
- Understands their social dynamics (best as a single pair)
- Willing to provide a varied and balanced diet
- Prepared for a commitment of 15-20 years