Plum-headed Parakeet

• 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.

• Commitment15–20 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Feather plucking · Respiratory issues · Obesity

The Plum-headed Parakeet (Psittacula cyanocephala) is a slim, long-tailed parakeet from the Indian subcontinent, where males wear a striking plum-purple head and females a soft grey one. Elegant and comparatively quiet for a Psittacula, it weighs 60-80 g and lives 15-20 years. They are gentle and sweet-natured but tend to be more flighty and less overtly cuddly than a conure or ringneck, often preferring an aviary-style life with plenty of flight room. With patient, regular handling from a young age many become tame and confiding, and their soft chattering song is far easier on the ears than most parakeets. Feed a pelleted base with sprouted and soaked seeds, vegetables, greens and a little fruit; the long-tailed parakeets do especially well with lots of fresh sprouts. Give a long flight cage or aviary rather than a tall narrow one, since these are strong fliers, plus foraging and chew toys. Provide space, gentle routine and companionship, and this graceful parakeet stays healthy and calm; neglect and cramped housing lead to stress and feather-plucking.

• How much activity does a Plum-headed Parakeet need?

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

• How much feather care does a Plum-headed Parakeet need?

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

• What cage does a Plum-headed Parakeet need?

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

• Is a Plum-headed Parakeet a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Plum-headed Parakeet live?

  15–20 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Plum-headed Parakeet?

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

Be the first to join this community!