Senegal Parrot
Poicephalus Senegalus
Poicephalus senegalus, Senegal Parrot, of the
genus Poicephalus, is native to West Africa and lives in the open woodland and
savannah. Senegal Parrots grow to about 9 inches long and weigh anywhere
from 125 to 170 grams.
Their appearance is typical to parrots in that they have a hooked beak and
typical feet, however they have a large head and beak for their small size and a
short and stocky tail, unlike the generally long tails of other parrot species.
Adults have grey heads, grey beaks, and bright yellow irises. Their throat
is green and their under parts and bottom area are yellow. The common
identifier of the Senegal Parrot is the vest of color on their chest. The
vest is predominately green and yellow. However there are three subspecies
of Senegal Parrot including:
-Poicephalus senegalus senegalus.
This subspecies has a yellow vest. It is native
to southern Mauritania, southern Mali, Guinea, and Lobos Island.
-Poicephalus senegalus mesotypus: Has an orange vest. It is native
to Nigeria and Cameroon as well as southwest Chad.
-Poicephalus senegalus versteri Has a red vest. It is native to
the Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria. |
The species is not sexually dimorphic; however
there are some common, and very minute, differences. The females tend to
be smaller than the males. The females generally have a smaller head and
beak than the males. The females tend to have a longer vest. Additionally,
the under-tail covert feathers tend to be mostly green in the female species and
yellow in the males. Experts recommend surgical or DNA sexing.
Senegal Parrots breed well in captivity. In the wild they nest in holes in
trees. Both in captivity and in the wild they will lay two to three white
eggs. The eggs are about 3cm long x 2.5cm wide. Incubation lasts about 27 days
during which time the female incubates the eggs.
Chicks are born blind and open their eyes around
two to three weeks of age. The male of the species tends to the chores of
feeding and guarding his family. The chicks are able to fly at about nine
weeks of age and become independent around 12 weeks of age. They’re
sexually mature around 2-4 years of age.
The sexes are said to differ in personality with the males tending to be a bit
more aggressive and the females being shyer. This isn’t always the case as
each bird has their own personality. In general
Senegal parrots are
described as intelligent, acrobatic, affectionate, independent, curious, and
quieter birds.
They’re also said to prefer structure and easily adapt to the routine of a
household and bond to their family. While they’re affectionate, they do
quite well on their own provided they have enough to stimulate and keep them
busy. Puzzle toys, chew toys, and climbing toys are imperative for a happy
bird.
Senegal parrots also require plenty of space to climb, perch, and fly.
Minimum cage requirements are 20" long x 20" deep x 28" high with horizontal
cage bars that are no more than 3/4 inch apart. This size makes it optimal
for climbing safely, and leaves plenty of room for perching, playing, and
climbing. Senegal Parrots enjoy flying and appreciate an aviary.
In the wild Senegal parrots eat seeds, nuts, berries and fruit. In
captivity they will thrive on a diet based on organic pellets, fresh fruits and
vegetables and the occasional nuts and seeds. They live to an average age
of 50 years, which makes them a lifelong commitment for Senegal parrot pet
owners. |
