Quaker Parrots are what is scientifically called “Myiopsitta monachus”, which in Latin means “Monk Parakeet”. They are medium size parrots which originated from Argentina and its surrounding South American countries. The quaker parrots that are bred in captivity and tamed to be good pets, are very affectionate birds that bring a lot of happiness into people’s lives. They are very chattery and pick up human words easily if they are given the attention they need to build their vocabulary. They are very affectionate and love to be part of your daily life. A majority of them are not quiet but many that I wean are very calm and well behaved. They will clown around the cage for your attention and want to spend time on your shoulder, give you kisses, talk and get into your food (if you are munching on something). Their cage has to be comfortable, a minimum of 30″ by 40″, with a variety of perches, mineral block and cuttlebone. They love toys. Toys need to be sturdy, made mostly of wood and leather. Avoid mirrors or tents in their cage since these can cause behavior problems. Their recommended diet should be primarily pellet based. Seeds should be given as treats but only after they are fully weaned on pellets (however, during the weaning process, millet is necessary). Vegetables and fruits, low in sugar and water, are very good for them. It’s known that Quaker Parrots can live up to 20 to 30 years if well taken care of. However, this information is based on first captured wild birds and not captive ones which, after decades of selective breeding, they are genetically less strong. Since Quaker Parrots adapt very well in the wild and have formed colonies in many places around the world, they are considered “pests” in many states in the US. So, if you are considering adopting one, you need to find out first if they are legal in your state or not.
At Friendly Bird Aviary we breed some rare Dark Eye Yellows (not to be confused with the Lutino which is a lighter yellow with red eyes) and some beautiful light Turquoise Opalines, Blue Opalines, and very unique Green Opalines. We don’t force our birds to breed under lights. They are bred in the Florida sunny weather. The season starts around Easter and ends in August or September. Very rarely there is a late summer clutch that weans in October or November. Babies are weaned one by one or sold unweaned to experienced had feeders. We are not wholesalers. We produce very little so that we can guarantee a good home for each bird. Our customers are serious buyers and wait patiently for their baby bird to be born and weaned.