Is a princess parrot or eclectus suitable for a beginner?

Question

I want to get a pet bird and I really like what I have discovered about princess parrots and eclectus parrots but am concerned that they might not be suitable for a beginner. However, given that I have read that these birds have long lifespans and so if I want one probably the sooner, the better and I only have enough time to devote to one bird at a time. Although I have never had a pet bird before I understand the need for a huge cage, plenty of quality time outside the cage, varied toys, good hygiene, a balanced diet of pellets-fresh fruits and veges- occasional seed, half yearly healthy bird vet checks, immediate action if the bird appears at all unwell or changes its behaviour, worming etc. I have a dog and cats so would like a bird that will be able to cope (obviously nothing unsupervised). I have no children. I work but am devoted to all my pets and make time to spend with them. I am not immunocompromised (nor is my husband). Could I care for one of these species?

Answer 1

If you feel that you can take care of one of these birds, and that you have the time and the money to take on a bird of this size. Go for it. I have birds and cats and there has never been a problem (once the cats became used to the birds) Birds make it know if they are unhappy by destructive behavior so if there is no one home at your house for long periods of time you may want to turn on a radio or TV for entertainment. From your question it sounds like you have done your research and that you know what having a large bird entails so enjoy your bird.

Answer 2

Personally I wouldn't recommend it. If you've never had any birds, you should start small. I think its great that you have actually researched about these birds, as so few people do, they just see one fall in love and get it, which is often detrimental to the bird because they don't know how to care for it, nor understand the time that goes into birds, as they are like children.

One bad thing that you say is that you have cats. Although the person above me said they're predators, which they are right, they don't always go after birds, I have several friends that have many birds and cats, and the cats are terrified of the birds. Thats the problem with cats though they're so independent, theres no guarantee. And the problem with getting an Ekkie and having a cat is that Eclectus' hold in their stress, rather than freakin out and flying away or something when scared, they will hold perfectly still, and this is why Eclectus' are known for plucking issues is because of their environment. Eclectus' do best in REALLY casual laid back environments without kids and other pets, and if other birds, usually quieter ones. The other thing is cats have a toxin in their saliva that is toxic to birds, one scratch of the paws, or if he bites your bird, even if its minor your bird will most likely die from it!

It's not to say that Eclectus' are a difficult species, its just that you don't want to be "shell shocked" by certain things, whther its money, or how loud the bird is, or if it plucks, etc. If you want a good beginner bird, that isn't terribly small, but has a larger personality, get a Senegal. I have owned several different types of birds, and have friends that have owned everything from African Greys, to Eclectus', every Macaw you can think of, and I am fairly knowledgeable about all their personalities. I own a Senegal, and I'm not suggesting you get one because I do, but they have great personalities, they love all people, they're very quiet, incredibly smart, and would be a good learning bird.

I think getting a smaller bird to begin with is a good idea because I think it will be good practice for you, I started out with Lovebirds, and have worked my way up!

Ultimately its your decision, but from an avian enthusiast, since you have no experience, I definitely wouldn't start with an Ekkie, and I do know that between the two, male Ekkies tend to be nicer, and more laid back than the females, althouh I absolutely adore the scarlet hues of the female! Anyhow good luck, I hope all goes well!

Answer 3

Lily, you state that you have cats (PREDATORS): this is not a good situation for any parrot - a wild PREY animal - to be thrust into. One other person has a question currently open about this very subject: she describes how her "...cinnamon tailed green cheeked conure.. has a long tail and he bites it and it's like shredding the tip of it and he's working his way up his tail..." and might his self-mutilating behaviours be a stress response to the presence of cats? YES UNEQUIVOCALLY YES. Please don't make the same mistake by putting a parrot in a similar situation: it's really unfair to the animal. Eclectus are definitely NOT "beginner" birds and anyway as they are actually PRONE to feather-destructive chewing. The more that is learned about their behaviour in captivity the more is learned too about hormonally driven aggression - especially in the hens (who are dominant). “A word of warning: during the breeding season Eclectus Parrots, especially the females, can become very aggressive and will even attack their owners….Eclectus Parrots are prone to feather plucking which can occur because of a number of things. Nutritional imbalance can be one of the main causes of feather plucking. Stress is also another contributing factor and can be brought on by many different situations including the cage or aviary being too small or too cold, a bossy partner, strangers (READ PREDATORS) in or around your aviary complex, the breeding season, change of diet, or even boredom can also lead to feather plucking….Some Eclectus Parrots feather pluck more than others, and some birds will only pluck at certain times of the year, but it is very important that once a bird shows the first signs of plucking every effort should be made to eliminate the habit.”

The evidence suggests that they are NOT a suitable "beginner" bird. Your adult dog has not, like the adult cats in your household, had prior experience living with birds: another problem in the making. In truth, I respectfully suggest that you please not purchase a parrot: they are extremely demanding, sensitive and complex - you work outside the home on a full-time basis - and you have a house brimming with predators who were there FIRST!

Answer 4

if you've read anything on eclectus you should know that they have VERY paticular food requirements. they have natural vitamin deficiencies that requires them to eat fresh fruits and vegetables daily. so they are very high maintainence in that aspect. i've never heard of a princess parrot, but most parrots have several names so it's probably just another name for a more commonly known species.

i wouldn't suggest an eclectus for a first bird. but if you feel that you're educated enough in the species to be a responsible owner, i say go for it.

Answer 5

Eclectus Care