Meyer's Parrot

• ExerciseModerate

  Daily out-of-cage time and foraging toys keep them busy.

• 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 experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment25–35 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Feather plucking · Respiratory issues · Obesity

Meyer's Parrot (Poicephalus meyeri) is a small, stocky African parrot from the woodlands of central and southern Africa, dusky brown with turquoise underparts and bright yellow shoulder flashes. A close relative of the Senegal, it weighs 100-130 g and lives 25-35 years, offering big-parrot longevity in a quiet package. Meyer's are prized for being calm, even-tempered and refreshingly quiet — they are not big talkers and rarely scream, making them a strong choice for flats and first-time owners of a hookbill. They bond well but tend toward independence, happy to play alone with a toy for long stretches rather than demanding constant contact. Feed a pelleted base with vegetables, greens, sprouts and a little fruit, keeping seeds and nuts modest since Poicephalus species gain weight easily. Provide a good-sized cage, daily out-time and a rotation of foraging and chew toys; while more independent than many parrots, a Meyer's still needs regular gentle interaction and mental work to stay tame and avoid the plucking that follows boredom.

• How much activity does a Meyer's Parrot need?

  Moderate. Daily out-of-cage time and foraging toys keep them busy.

• How much feather care does a Meyer's Parrot need?

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

• What cage does a Meyer's Parrot need?

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

• Is a Meyer's Parrot a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Meyer's Parrot live?

  25–35 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Meyer's Parrot?

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

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