Senegal parrots are birds of open woodland and savanna. They flock most commonly in countries in West Africa. It is a gregarious species, continuously chattering with a range of whistling and squawking calls. Senegal parrots live an average of approximately 25–30 years in the wild, and have been known to live for 50 years in captivity.
DESCRIPTION
Senegal parrots are about 23 cm (9 in.) long, weigh about 120 to 170 g. They have a relatively large head and beak for their overall size, and feathers form a short broad tail. Adults have a charcoal grey head, grey beak, bright yellow irises, green back and throat, and yellow underparts and rump. The yellow and green areas on a Senegal parrot’s front form a V-shape resembling a yellow vest worn over green. Young Juveniles have dark grey, almost black, irises, which change to light grey.
Pet parrot in a cage with toys. The perch is made from a hard material to wear down the tips of claws.Hand reared Senegal parrots are one of the most popular parrots to be kept as pets, and the most popular Poicephalus parrot. Their calls are generally high pitched whistles and squawks, but they are not as noisy as many other parrot species.Wild caught Senegal parrots do not usually become tame and do not make good pets. Senegal parrots are affectionate and need enough attention to keep them from getting bored, but is independent enough to spend time on a playgym. Senegal owners find their birds to be smart, loving as well as strong-minded. Around the house, the Senegal parrot is a curious creature that closely observes the activities taking place around. Senegal parrots are known to display their intelligence in different ways, with some of them demonstrating it by figuring their way out of a cage while others express their smarts verbally. Senegal parrots have the comical, playful and animated personality of larger parrots, but without the cost, mess or noise typically associated with bigger pet parrots. Senegals are susceptible to overgrown beaks, so provide plenty of hard wooden toys for them to chew on. They also can gain excessive amounts of weight, so their diet should consist of pellets, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Senegal parrots fiercely love their owners and show their affection by burrowing and cuddling with them. To keep the Senegal parrot from being friendly with just one person and snapping at others, be sure to socialize it with everyone in the family. Do not allow courtship behaviors and let the person who the bird does not favor as much provide its favorite treats. Stick training is also important for a Senegal parrot so it will step onto a stick or hand-held perch for every member of the family.
BREEDING
Senegal parrots are relatively easy to breed in captivity and there is a small industry in breeding and hand rearing Senegal parrots and other parrots for the pet trade. In aviculture Senegal parrots can start to breed at the age of 3 to 4 years in captivity, but some do not breed until age 5 years.Parent reared birds are known to breed as early as 2 years of age. Senegal parrot nest boxes can be any of a variety of sizes and shapes; but for example, a nest box about 18 iches high and 8 inches to 10 inches square would be suitable. An exit and entrance port about 2.5 inches in diameter would be suitable, and the birds may enlarge the port by chewing the wood. Nest boxes generally have a secure side door for inspecting the nest.
DIET
Diet should consist of a quality small parrot mix (some are listed below), supplemented with various fruits, green foods, millet spray, and occasionally some mealworms.
