Species
Profile - Maximillian's Pionus
Pionus maximiliani
Length:
11 inches
Weight:
225 - 275 grams
Life span:
30 - 40 years
Incubation:
26 days
Age at weaning:
10 - 12 weeks
Age at maturity:
3 years
Country of origin:
Brazil through Bolivia and Paraguay to northern Argentina
Natural habitat:
Light forest and open woodland; may be found in pairs or small flocks
Description:
Green head feathers edged with blue; blue-violet throat band; forehead and
lores dark gray:, red undertail coverts; scaly head, white eye ring, eyes
brown
Temperament:
The Maximilian's Pionus seems to have one of the nicest pet bird
personalities. According to one breeder, "if ever there were a perfect pet
parrot, the Pionus species certainly comes close to it." They are
wonderful for first-time pet parrot owners, or those who want to graduate
to a larger bird. Pionus are ideal family birds, since they may be handed
by several people and maintain their sweet disposition. They are not noisy
birds and do not chew excessively, making them appropriate for apartment
dwellers or those concerned about noise.
Talking ability:
Moderate to good
Noise level:
Low
Cage requirements:
24" x 24" with 3/4" bar spacing
Interesting facts:
In the wild, several Pionus species come from high-altitude forests that
are low in airborne mold. Many of these Pionus were plagued with the
fungus Aspergilus when the birds were first imported. The plum-crowned
Pionus was especially sensitive to aspergillosis when imported in the
early 1980's, and this is considered the main reason for the demise of
this species in captivity.
This
information is provided by the “News from the Nest” newsletter.
http://www.theperch.net |