Is the Red Rump Parakeet a good pet?
…What do Red Rump Parrots eat?
…And can Red Rump Parrots talk?
We’ll answer all of this plus much more in our ultimate guide to the Red Rump Parakeet…
Species Overview: The Red Rump Parakeet
This species of parakeet is colorful, moderately-sized and full of character. They’re commonly found in Southeastern Australia.
They can be recognized by their emerald green plumage and distinguishable red rump (hence the name).
The Sciencey Part
The Red Parakeet has the scientific name Psephotus Haematonotus (now that’s a mouthful!)
They’re in the Aves class and belong to the Psittaculidae family.
How to Tell the Males and Females Apart?
The male Red Rump Parakeet has a striking emerald green plumage, a blue-green head, a yellow shoulder and belly and a red rump.
The female isn’t as vibrant in color, instead they have a duller, olive-green plumage, faint yellowish-green scales on their body and a yellow rump.
The young of both sexes are dull in color.
Similar Species of Birds
A species of bird that shares a similar appearance to the Red Rump Parakeet is the Mulga Parrot.
They’re around the same size as the males and are just as colorful with their predominantly green plumage.
The main difference is the Mulga Parrot has a yellow band above their bill, a red patch on the nape of their neck and a light green band across their rump.
Origin and Evolution
Where did these colorful birds originate from and how have they evolved to adapt to their surroundings?
Origin and Distribution
The Red Rump Parakeet originates from Southwestern Australia.
It can now be found throughout most of New South Wales and Southwestern Queensland.
It thrives in areas with open grasslands and also likes being close to water, so favors anywhere with a river or stream.
If you find a Red Rump Parakeet in an area that it isn’t usually known to locate, then chances are it’s an escaped cage bird, or it originates from an escapee.
Behavior
The Red Rump Parakeet is an energetic bird that loves exploring their surroundings.
They’re sociable creatures and like having a friend.
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Average Length | 28 cm |
| Average Weight | 70-80 grams |
| Wingspan | 45-50 cm |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Plumage | Green body, blue rump, red patch on lower back |
In the wild, they like to forage in flocks and you’ll seldom spot one alone.
However, they’re prone to being aggressive so it’s wise not to house them with more than one other bird of their species.
Key Behaviors in the Wild
They value companionship and will often be found next to their mates side. They show their appreciation towards one another by preening each other’s feathers.
Key Behaviors as Pets
They’re generally friendly birds, although they do have a mean streak.
They also need fairly large enclosures so that they can burn off their energy.
Unlike other species of parakeets, they’re capable of entertaining themselves for long periods of time.
However, they do appreciate having a friend for company (at least until they start bickering!)
They aren’t the easiest parrot species to train, as they can be somewhat stubborn.
With a lot of time and patience, you could grow a strong bond with your Red Rump and even teach them a couple of simple tricks.
Vocalization
They have a soft and long call and they have been known to make whistling and trill sounds.
They have a shrill chattering sound which they use to defend their territory or when they’re bickering with others.
They’re the most vocal at dawn and dusk when they’re feeding and courting. When they aren’t squabbling they have a beautiful song-like chirp.
As pets, they like to chirp to themselves. Unlike other parrots, they aren’t known for their voice mimicking skills.
They’re capable of learning a few simple words but it’s rare for them to do so.
Aggressive Behavior
These birds are generally mild-mannered but they do have a tendency to demonstrate aggressive behavior.
They do this if they feel their terrorism is being threatened if prey is attacking them or if their friend has annoyed them.
They’re very territorial. They can instantly change from mild-tempered to an angry ball of color in seconds if they feel threatened.
Fun Facts About the Red Rump Parakeet
This fascinating bird is quick, colorful, and full of personality. Here are some amazing acts one of our favorite feathered friends.
Amazing Fun Facts
The males beautiful emerald green plumage helps them blend into their grassy surroundings and therefore helps them go undetected by prey.
To communicate with each other in the wild they use the call “chee chillip, chee chillip.”
They forage the grounds for food and like to eat fruit, flowers, and seeds.
These smart birds perch on the stems of small plants so that it bends to the ground. This means that they can easily reach the seeds…yummy!
Amazing Fun Facts Continued
If they’re startled they’re likely to fly up from grassy areas in flocks…
This basically looks like a colorful whirlwind.
They mate for life…aw! The female picks the home (usually a nest in a Eucalyptus tree).
She remains in charge of incubating the eggs and doesn’t leave the nest for the whole time period.
It’s the males job to forage for food and bring his partner some dinner.
| Food Type | Percentage of Diet |
|---|---|
| Seeds | 60-70% |
| Fruits | 20-25% |
| Vegetables | 5-10% |
| Nuts | 5% |
By the time the younglings are 7-8 weeks old, they’re fully sufficient and fly the nest. Its vital for them to leave at this point as the male is very territorial and will begin to see them as a threat.
Lifestyle and Health
These birds generally live a healthy and happy life. They’re smart, energetic, and are prone to the occasional squabble.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Red Rump Parakeet is between 15 and 32 years.
They live longer in captivity than they do they in the wild, as they face less threats and diseases.
| Information | Value |
|---|---|
| Sexual Maturity | 1-2 years |
| Breeding Season | September to January |
| Clutch Size | 4-6 eggs |
| Incubation Period | 18-21 days |
| Fledging Period | 5-6 weeks |
Diet and Feeding Habits
Their main source of food in the wild is grass seeds. They’re amazing foragers and have a way of bending the stem of a flower to get to the seeds.
They also get the nutrients they need from fruit and insects.
As pets, they need plenty of seeds combined with fruit and veg. Make sure that they don’t have too many oily-based seeds as this can result in them becoming overweight.
Health Issues
The Red Rump Parakeet is very resistant to disease. However, they can suffer from feather plucking, eye infections, parrot fever, and respiratory problems.
Population
They’re a popular pet to have because they’re generally mild-mannered and fairly easy to look after.
Availability
They’re readily available as pets and prove to be a popular choice.
They aren’t as needy as other parakeets and parrots but they are capable of showing emotions and growing attachments to their owners.
Conservation
They are listed as a CITES II endangered species.
Environmental factors, loss of habitats and rivalry from bigger birds led to a decline in the Red Rump Parakeet.
Thankfully their population is on the rise. In areas that they inhabit it’s common to see them in small flocks.
Physical Characteristics
As well as being colorful, (moreso the males) these friendly birds have plenty of other physical traits that set them aside from the rest.
Size and Weight
This medium-sized parrot is between 10-11.2 inches long but most of this is taken up by their long, tapered tail.
They weigh between 60-85 grams, which makes them light and agile.
Color
The males are known for their colorful plumage and red rump, while the female has far duller feathers and no red rump.
Through breeding there are now some colorful mutations such as albino, silver, blue, cinnamon, pied, yellow and opaline.
Habitat
Whether they’re in the wild or warm and cosy in your home, Red Rump Parakeets like their habitat to meet certain criterias.
Plenty of room…tick! Plenty to do…tick! The right temperature…tick!
Different Habitats
Wild Red Rump Parakeets are most commonly found in grasslands. They also inhabit suburban gardens, parks, and farmlands.
Cage Requirements
These active birds need plenty of space. Their cage or aviary needs to be at least 32 x 20 x 20 inches big.
Avoid round cages as these are too constricting for them.
Keep them occupied throughout the day by making sure their cage includes a perch, swing, and ladder. They’ll also like it if you add some toys for them to play with.
Temperature
They can acclimate to both warm and colder climates. In fact, they tolerate temperatures as low as 4 degrees.
Although they can cope with the cold, it’s still advisable to keep the room their enclosure is warm during the colder months.
Purchasing
If you have your heart set on purchasing on a Red Rump Parakeet then make sure that you do your research first.
There are lots of reputable places you can buy one from, including pet stores or online.
If you go for the online option then many companies have delivery options, where they will transport your new member of the family safely and securely to your door.
FAQs – The Short Answers
Do you still have loads of questions about this colorful, inquisitive, chirpy parrot? Don’t worry, as I’ve answered the frequently asked questions about these lovable birds.
Question 1 – Do They Make Good Pets?
Yes! They don’t need as much attention as other bird species do (although they still love a fuss).
However, they do need items in their cage to occupy them such as a perch and toys. They are friendly, inquisitive birds that are great pets for beginners.
They’re prone to aggressive moments and fair better if they have a friend (although they may squabble with them).
Compared to other birds they aren’t very destructive, so their cage and equipment should last for years.
Question 2 – How Much Do They Cost?
They usually cost around the $300 dollar mark. If you have your eye on one of the color mutations then you can expect to pay more.
Question 3 – Do They Talk?
They aren’t natural talkers. They’re capable of learning a couple of words but it usually takes a lot of time and perseverance from their owner.
They may not be big talkers but they do have a beautiful sing song chirp.
Question 4 – What Do They Eat?
In the wild they usually forage in flocks on the ground. They eat seeds, fruits and flowers.
Question 5 – When Do They Breed?
In Australia, their breeding season usually takes place in the spring months (August to January).
Breeding times vary depending on the ares. In dryer inland areas breeding can happen any time of the year, dependant on the amount of rainfall.
Question 6 – What Does the Word “Parakeet” Mean?
The word parakeet translates as “long tail.”
Can’t argue with that, they definitely do have a long tail that I’m sure many other bird species are envious of.
Question 7 – How Long is Their Incubation Period?
Their incubation period lasts for 20 days. The female Red Rump Parakeet doesn’t leave her nest during this time…now that’s dedication!
An Overview to the Red Rump Parakeet
I hope that you now know everything you could possibly need to know about this fascinating bird.
Whether they’re flying through grasslands in Australia or making use of the swing in their enclosure, they’re a fascinating species of parakeet, who can easily charm everyone around them.
They may not be the biggest in size or the most vocal but this doesn’t mean that they aren’t lovable birds who will bring a lot of joy and companionship to their owners.
