The Quaker Parrot: Comedian of The Bird World

Find out more about the Quaker parrot and why they are known as the comedians of the bird world by reading Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana’s article below.

What Is a Quaker Parrot?

A Quaker parrot, also known as a monk parrot, is a very popular pet bird. They are bright green in color with gray neck and chest feathers. Quakers are intelligent and social birds.

Quaker parrots are 11 to 13 inches long from the tip of their tail to their head. Their average weight is 3-5 ounces.

Quaker parrots build huge nests, and are the only parrot that makes nests. Their nests are big enough for a community of 20-30 of them to live in. These nests have multiple rooms, kind of like an apartment complex.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Quaker parrot is 20-30 years. However, with good care, they can live more than 30 years. Quaker parrot eggs incubate for about 24 days.

Personality

Quaker parrots are devoted to their humans. They are curious, playful, very social.

Where Do They Live?

Their natural habitat is in Bolivia and Southern Brazil. However, they are one of the most adaptable birds. They can adapt to many different climates, which is one reason they are popular pets.

Why Are They the Comedians of the Bird World?

There are many reasons that Quaker parrots are called the comedians of the bird world. One of the reasons is that they love to talk. They talk to their humans and to other birds in the home.

The second biggest reason is that Quaker parrots have a few habits that are very entertaining.

Some of the things they are known for are:

• Hoarding
• Nesting
• Playing
• Learning tricks

The final reason weaves into the first three, making them adorable pets. In the past few years, Quaker parrots have become Internet sensations. Humans recording their parrots’ antics never fails to entertain the masses.

Fun Facts About Quaker Parrots

They Can Mimic Human Speech

Quaker parrots can learn a number of human words. However, it is important to note that not all Quaker parrots talk. They do have a large percentage of talkative birds, though, and their abilities rival those of larger parrots.

They Are Omnivorous

Quaker parrots need a high-quality diet. An all seed diet will often lead to an overweight Quaker and may cause fatty liver disease. A healthy diet should consist of a pelleted diet with daily supplementation of fresh vegetables and a limited amount of fruit.

A Rare Genetic Mutation Causes Color Differences

Color variations include blue, white (albino), cinnamon, and yellow (lutino). These rare colors are worth a lot more and cost more from breeders and pet stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

I Heard that Quaker Parrots are Illegal, is That True?

Yes, in the following states, Quaker Parrots are illegal to have as pets:

• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Kentucky
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Tennessee
• Wyoming

Why is the Quaker Parrot Illegal in Some Places?

Quaker parrots are an introduced species to the United States. It is thought that many colonies originated from birds that migrated northward from Central and South America. It is also well known that many wild colonies were created by birds that got free from damaged or destroyed cages during many of the hurricanes that hit the Southeast in the 1980s and 1990s. They can adapt to many different climates, reproduce quickly and live in large communities. Since they are omnivorous, they will eat anything which means they are a danger to crops.

They can also be quite noisy when in groups. Although individually, they are quieter than most birds.

How Much Do Quaker Parrots Cost?

Quaker parrots can cost between $300 and $600.

Which States Allow Quaker Parrots as Pets? And What Are the Rules?

Quaker parrots are legal in all states except those mentioned earlier. The following states allow you to have Quaker Parrots as pets, but have rules regarding owning them:

New Jersey

You need a special permit in order to have a Quaker parrot as a pet.

New York

You need to have an ID band on any and all Quaker parrots that are pets.

Ohio

You will need to clip your bird’s wings to keep them from flying away and building a nest somewhere.

Reach Out to our Exotic Vets for Your Quaker Parrot’s Next Exam

The Quaker parrot is a great option for a pet if you love birds. However, it is important to keep in mind where they are allowed and where they are illegal. If you are unsure, check your local regulations.

If you decide that a Quaker parrot is the best pet for you, congratulations! Be sure to give Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital of Louisiana a call at (504) 455-6386, so we can make sure your funny new best friend is in tip-top shape.