The Monk Parakeet
Posted by jaytee on 22nd July 2009
The Monk Parakeet
The Monk Parakeet is also known as Quaker Parrot, or Gray-Breasted Parakeet.
Myiopsitta monachus monachus – nominate subspecies
Myiopsitta monachus calita – Mendoza Grey-breasted Parakeet
Myiopsitta monachus cotorra – Paraguayan Grey-breasted Parakeet
Myiopsitta monachus luchsi – Luchs’s or Bolivian Grey-breasted Parakeet
The Monk, originating from S.E. South America, is becoming a very popular pet, in the US. Bird lovers are finally realizing this HUGE PARROT, in a tiny body.
The monk has a terrific ability to mimic sound, and human speech. While the speech may not compare to the African Grey, or some of the Amazons, It’s thought, by many, to be in the top 10 Speaking Birds. Although the speech may not be quite as good, the personality, more than makes up for it.
Many of these larger birds, just kinda hang out. They don’t have a great need to interact. The Monk, on the other hand, wants to be the center of attention! What ever your doing, include ME. What’s that your eating? I want some. Not to mention, the playfulness.
Think of Spot playing fetch. That’s a kiddie thing to the Monk. He can be taught to play basket ball, put his toys in wagon, and move them elsewhere, put together puzzles, and dis-assemble just about anything, including the lock on his cage. And speak (although, they will imitate your dogs bark) doesn’t mean rrruufff! These guys are capable of a very large vocabulary.
The Monk, in nature is very social. They build intricate nest structures, referred to as condos. These condos may occupy dozens of pairs. The Monk is the only Parrot that builds a nest.
While your off to work, the Monk needs to be kept entertained. Keeping the radio, or TV on a low volume, will make him think he’s got company, but toys are a must. Toys will give your fid a physical playmate. Again, they’re very active. The toys will keep them occupied.
The Monk requires a special diet. The Monk is prone to Fatty Liver Disease. (FLD). Obviously, high fat content in diet. Many seeds are high in fat. Stick to a pellet diet. Many fruit seeds are toxic to your fid. Don’t guess which, avoid all. There are also many chemicals that can be toxic to your fid.
The Blue Monk Parakeet is quickly rising in popularity. There are many other mutation varieties, not as common, and a bit more costly, if you can find them.
The young babies take a bit of extra care, wether raised by parrents, or parronts. When raised by “parronts”, each groth cycle is extended by a few days-to a week.
Your Monk will need a place to call home. Most commonly, called a cage. The monk may live to 25-30 years. Make him as comfortable as you have space, and can afford. Minimum cage size being, 18×18x24. This is a pretty tiny space to spend 20-30 years. Again, as large as you have space, and can afford!!!!!!
This is just a brief summery of “The Care, and Needs of the Monk Paraket”.
There’s a lot more info @ jaytee’s Quaker Parrots .com.
Maybe you want to start wit my FAQ page.
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