Caique:
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. 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?”
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