Crimson Rosella

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• GroomingEasy upkeep

  Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• Living spaceStandard cage

  A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment20–25 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Respiratory issues · Obesity · Parasites

The Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans) is a broad-tailed parrot of the forests of eastern and southeastern Australia, and one of the most visually spectacular parrots kept in aviculture. Adults are deep crimson with violet-blue cheeks and black-and-crimson scalloped backs; juveniles are largely green and take over a year to colour up, which regularly confuses new keepers into thinking they have the wrong bird. It is important to be honest about what this species is and is not. Rosellas are active, alert, independent birds that generally do not enjoy being handled and rarely become cuddly, even when hand-raised. They are best appreciated as aviary birds: given a long planted flight they are hardy, engaging, quiet by parrot standards and a pleasure to watch. Kept in a small parrot cage and expected to behave like a conure, they become stressed and aggressive. They also tend to be intolerant of other birds, especially in breeding season, and are usually housed as a single pair per aviary. Diet is a formulated pellet or good parakeet base with fresh vegetables, leafy greens, some seed and limited fruit. Because rosellas spend a lot of time feeding on the ground, birds in outdoor aviaries are more exposed to intestinal worms and to disease from contaminated substrate than perching species, so regular faecal checks, a clean dry floor and routine parasite control matter here more than for most parrots. Provide bathing water, shelter from extremes, and an annual avian vet check.

• How much activity does a Crimson Rosella need?

  High. Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• How much feather care does a Crimson Rosella need?

  Easy upkeep. Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• What cage does a Crimson Rosella need?

  Standard cage. A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Is a Crimson Rosella a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Crimson Rosella live?

  20–25 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Crimson Rosella?

  Keep an eye out for Respiratory issues, Obesity, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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