Caique Parrots:

Introducing the Caique

Originating from the Amazon Rainforest, the species of Caique are from the family Psittacidae, the Arini tribe, and Pionites genus. There are two species of Caiques: the Black-headed Caique and the White-bellied Caique.

Both are equally striking with their colorful yellow, white, and green plumage. The only difference between the two is that the Black-headed Caique has a black beak whereas the Yellow-bellied Caique tends to sport a pink beak with a yellow/orange head. Owning a Caique guarantees that there will be at least one “clown” in the family. Caiques are considered to be very playful, always energetic, and quite enthusiastic.

Black Headed Caique

Their personalities mimic that of a child; curious, easily offended especially when put back in their cages, and mischievous.

However, although they are quite exquisite they are not known to be as boisterous as other species. What they do enjoy is mimicking human sounds. Some owners of Caiques have asserted that their shrieks can be annoying. But, with their high-pitched voices, the Caiques will “whistle a happy tune” as well as talk a blue streak.

The Black-headed Caique has a particular sound akin to a horn. Although their speech is also somewhat limited, they nonetheless mimic sounds from the environment more than human sounds.

Caique Lifestyle

The Caiques are highly intelligent parrots and teaching them to perform tricks can be achieved quite easily. Moreover, it is said that they can be taught to go to the potty as well. Some state they are quite the acrobat and are have a cleverness that suits their personality.

Experts have noted that the personality of Caiques is a complex one, citing they may exhibit passive/aggressive behavior. Thus, most new owners of Caiques should be aware of the emotional ups and downs of this particular species. However, unlike other species of parrots that cling to one owner, the Caique will “share” his love through the household.

It should also be noted that the Caique has a pension for getting into one’s hair and rubbing himself through it at the same time pulling some strands here and there.

Generally, it can be said that Caiques are very active. They enjoy lots of toys that keep them occupied as well as entertained. A rule of thumb is to purchase a variety of toys for this species as they love to chew and would most likely destroy a toy or two. (Yes, they play with several toys at one time while chewing on a piece of food) Talk about being ambidextrous! This is one of the reasons we highly suggest Training Caiques

The Caique is typically known to have a life span of 20 years or more. The age at which they mature is between two and three years, and their size is approximately 9 to 11 inches.

Diet of a Caique

Their diet consists of pellets that are of the highest quality, as well as vegetable and fruit. They also enjoy nuts, seeds, greens, and berries. While they are known as chewers, the Caiques require a steel cage with plenty of room (about 3 feet high and four feet long).
Perches are required and, as mentioned earlier, plenty of toys made out of wood. Since they are known for hopping and jumping they have developed strong feet and legs.

Bathing is a joy for the Caique and it is recommended that their water bowl be changed several times a day. When you open the cage door, you may find they rather hop to a particular spot rather than fly. Thus, it is recommended to trim their flight feathers and, instead, take them out of the cage as often as possible.

So there you have it! This is the world of the Caique; friendly, curious, playful, outgoing, naughty, stubborn, fearful and fearless all at the same time. Overall, every day will present a new and exciting challenge if you decide to acquire a Caique. By the way, the correct way to pronounce Caique is “kai-EKE.” Doesn’t it sound like the call of “Xena, The Warrior Princess?”