Monk Parakeet

Physical Features

The Monk Parakeet, or Myiopsitta Monachus, is a distinct species of parrots whose most noticeable feature is its unique feather coloring. The color ranges from gray to green to yellow. Often times the bird has bright green upper parts, pale gray on the chest and upper breasts and very light green and yellow coloring on its under parts. The flight feathers of the wing are dark blue in color and the bird's beak is always found to be a shade of orange. The under tail would be a combination of dull gray and blue and the legs are gray. This coloration is suited for camouflage situations from the days when these birds were mainly in the wild.

The Monk Parakeet, also popularly called the Quaker Parrot, has an average wingspan of 48 cm and has an average height of 29 cm. Their weight is what is expected for their size, averaging between 85 to 150 grams.

Habitat

Quaker Parrots are generally found in areas that have a temperate or subtropical weather system. They are therefore found in areas such as Argentina and several countries in South America. There have also been some siting’s of some feral populations in some parts of Europe and North America.

In the wild, these birds will make their nests in secured locations out of twigs and leaves. A nest can end up being as heavy as several pounds! This is because of the commutative nature of the birds. Many birds will tend to 'share' nests with each other, forming different compartments for themselves. The birds however, also make popular pets and can find themselves living in any typical housing situation, mainly in cages.

Diet

As is typical of most birds, the Quaker parrot enjoys and knows how to appreciate good seeds and fruit. They will eat cereal seeds, various fruits and some fresh vegetables. The ideal diet for this parrot will include equal portions of a good seed mix and high quality pellet food. They will eat vegetables such as shredded lettuce and carrot and will enjoy some fresh or dried foods every now and then.

Behavior

The sound of this parrot can be described as loud and raucous. It will produce a continuous series of screeches and squawks. Despite this unattractive quality however, these monks are rather intelligent, fun-loving creatures. They are very curious birds and should be kept in sight whenever possible. These domesticated birds also need lots of human attention and companionship. They will tend to get jealous easily and will therefore be better pets when they are the only pet. When kept as pets, these animals should be allowed outside their cages frequently to have some freedom and stretch their wings.

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