Eastern 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.

• Commitment15–25 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Respiratory issues · Obesity · Feather plucking

The Eastern Rosella (Platycercus eximius) is a spectacularly coloured broad-tailed parakeet from southeastern Australia, with a crimson head, white cheek patches, a black-and-gold mosaic back and blue-edged wings. Pets weigh 90-120 g and live 15-25 years, and their beauty is their main appeal since they are more to admire than to handle. Rosellas are active, alert and somewhat aloof — most stay flighty and do not enjoy heavy cuddling, doing best as aviary birds where they can fly and forage. Hand-raised individuals can become tame and whistle pleasantly, but they are territorial with other birds and can be aggressive in mixed aviaries, so they are usually kept as a single pair. Feed a pelleted or good seed base heavily supplemented with sprouts, vegetables, leafy greens, and some fruit; rosellas love foraging on the ground, so a spacious floor helps. Give a long planted aviary or large flight cage rather than a small one, with branches and foraging toys. With flight room, a varied fresh diet and calm surroundings this jewel-toned parakeet stays healthy and vivid, while cramped housing brings stress, plucking and obesity.

• How much activity does a Eastern Rosella need?

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

• How much feather care does a Eastern Rosella need?

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

• What cage does a Eastern Rosella need?

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

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

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Eastern Rosella live?

  15–25 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Eastern Rosella?

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

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