Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid)

• ExerciseLow

  Content with perch-hopping and a little out-of-cage time.

• 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.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Respiratory issues · Egg binding · Obesity

The Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Neophema splendida), also called the Splendid Parakeet, is a tiny grass parakeet from the arid interior of southern Australia, and one of the most beautiful small parrots in the world — the male glows with a blue face, green back and a brilliant scarlet chest. It weighs just 40-50 g and lives 10-15 years. Splendids are famously gentle, calm and nearly silent, making almost no noise beyond a soft twitter, which makes them ideal for apartments and mixed peaceful aviaries. They are not hands-on cuddlers but are placid and easy to keep, spending their time flying, foraging and quietly interacting with a partner. Being desert birds they need dry conditions and are sensitive to damp, cold and floor-borne parasites, so a clean, dry, draught-free aviary is essential. Feed a small-parakeet seed and pellet mix with sprouts, greens and vegetables, plus cuttlebone. Give a spacious flight, a bonded partner and a dry environment and these jewel-like parakeets thrive; chronic damp, stress and poor hygiene are the main threats to this delicate, gorgeous little bird.

• How much activity does a Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid) need?

  Low. Content with perch-hopping and a little out-of-cage time.

• How much feather care does a Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid) need?

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

• What cage does a Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid) need?

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

• Is a Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid) a good fit for first-time owners?

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

• How long do Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid) live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Scarlet-chested Parakeet (Splendid)?

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

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