Bourke’s Parakeet
Origin: Central Australia
The Bourke’s Parakeet derives its name from the former governor named Richard Bourke of New South Wales between 1831 and 1837. The bird is native to Australia and is found in the entire central and southern regions of the country. The natural habitat of the bird consists of open scrub lands in arid and semi-arid regions. The bird is generally seen in pairs or groups ranging from 10 to 30 in number.
This attractive parakeet is one of the few parrot-like birds that may be safely kept in a mixed collection with small seedeaters or softbills. Its coloring is attractive despite its subdued tones. It breeds quite happily in a mixed aviary and does not display any aggression. It does not require a large aviary, is hardy, and can winter outside without heat if provided with a dry, frost-proof shelter.
Description:
Size: 23 cm (9 in)
COCK:
Beak: black. Upper parts: greyish-brown. Forehead: pale blue. Breast and under-side: pinkish-brown. Wings and tail: tinged with violet-blue. Legs: greyish-brown.
HEN:
The hen almost looks the same as the cock. To determine the sex of the bird you have to keenly watch its physical appearance. The blue shade of color that is generally present on the forehead of male birds is absent in the females. Even if the blue color exists on the female head the shade is light compared to the male.
Diet: (Seedeater)
Plain canary seed, mixed millets, hulled oats, and groats, a small amount of sunflower seed, and occasional hemp form the basic diet of the birds. Spray millet and seeding grasses are both relished and green food, such as dandelion and chick-weed, should be offered. Grit and cuttlefish bone must also be included in the bird’s diet as this would lead to the strengthening of the bones of the bird. The female birds are especially to be served with grit and cuttlefish pieces.
Bourke’s Parakeet Breeding:
In the wild, the bird generally breeds between August and December. Unlike many species of parakeets, the male Bourke’s parakeet does not take part in the brooding season. Young birds generally fledge within 4 weeks of their birth. The young ones often stay for a prolonged period with their parents before they fly away.
This species makes use of boxes or hollow logs. Three to six eggs are laid and incubation lasts about 18 days. Wood shavings or turf should be placed in the base of the nest box or log. The young are fed on the normal seed diet, but seeding grasses are eagerly taken. Plenty of green food must also be provided to the babies.
Make sure the size of the aviary where you would be keeping the bird should be large. The length of the cage must be about 30 inches high to allow the bird to fly comfortably. The car should have enough space for the bird to move around freely. But at the same time make sure that the spacing of the bars of the cage is not more than half an inch or else the bird will easily be able to escape.
See more: Blue Tanager