Senegal parrots are playful, comical and smart birds. They are extremely affectionate and loving birds who bond really well with their owners, becoming a lovely member of the family. They require a lot of mental stimulation as they are extremely intelligent - a busy bird is a happy bird!
Senegal parrots are fairly small in stature, reaching a size of nine inches from top to tail and with a wingspan of six inches. Once fully grown they'll weigh around 120 grams.
The bird you have purchased from us is currently being fed on J+J low sunflower blend and lots of fruit and vegetables. It is important to keep up with a variety of fresh foods for your bird to maintain optimum health and provide them with all of their vitamins. Some firm favourites for training include pomegranate seeds, apples and small pieces of nuts. A separate fruit and vegetable recommendation list will be given to you. Small pre-packed nuts are available to purchase in-store.
Parrots are generally deficient in vitamin A, so we recommend something orange every day to help keep their vitamin A levels up. Pumpkin, apricot, carrots, butternut squash and cooked sweet potato are all great additions for increasing their intake.
It is important to keep an eye on your birds health, a sick bird is one that has been fluffed up, has a low appetite and is generally lethargic. Birds don't tend to show any signs of being unwell until they are quite sick, so it is important to see an avian specialist as soon as you notice any signs of ill health. You can call the store you purchased the bird from for guidance, but never leave a sick bird before getting help or treatment as they can go downhill quickly. Estover Veterinary Hospital (Plymouth) and Polsloe and Cranbrook Veterinary practices (Exeter) have avian vets. It is important to see an avain specialist because of the knowledge required.
HELPFUL TIP: Why not try stuffing a Kong Extreme with cooked mashed potato, carrot and peas for a healthy tasty snack that keeps them occupied.
We recommend that you provide your bird with constant access to millet and cuttlefish (or an iodine block). We also advise that you supplement your bird with calcivet twice a week to avoid them developing a calcium deficiency. Calcium is the most important mineral for your bird and needs to be added via additional supplements and through vegetables. This is available to purchase in-store or will be included if you have purchased a starter kit from us.
Avian UV lights are available to purchase as well. These (whilst not essential) are highly recommended for a healthy, happy and well-rounded bird.
UVB allows your bird to synthesise vitamin D3 in their skin, this is essential for proper calcium metabolism. This is necessary for normal growth, strong bones and egg production.
Your birds specialised retinas enable them to see UVA. Providing them with a UV bulb means they are now able to see a full colour spectrum. UVA also helps with their mental wellbeing; this can help to prevent or curb feather plucking and other destructive behaviours.
FUN FACT: For a bird to be a parrot it must have a hookbill beak and zygodactyl feet (two toes at the front, two toes at the back)
If you have purchased a full set up from us then an adequate sized cage will be included in that. If you already have a cage at home it is important to check it is the right size for the bird you are purchasing; they should have enough room to fully open their wings.
The full set up price from us includes a Santa Fe cage.
Your bird should be fully cleaned and disinfected at least once to twice a week, and any faeces and dropped or spoilt fruit and veg should be taken out daily. Remember to only use animal safe disinfectant which can be purchased in-store.
Bathing your bird is also really important and helps to promote preening and feather growth. Our stores sell a range of rainforest sprays which are perfect for this and cleanse your bird, prevents dry itchy skin and helps to prevent plucking.
FUN FACT: If your bird doesn't seem to like being sprayed, try putting the hoover on before bathing them. It is said that is sounds like a waterfall in the rainforest and instinctively they are happy to get wet!
Don't forget to purchase an array of toys and perches for your bird. This is one of the most important purchases you can make. Perches should be different materials, sizes and textures, offering plenty of suitable smaller options for comfort, and some larger perches to exercise the muscles in their feet. Our stores hold natural branch, java wood, rope and calcium perches as well which provide a space for birds to relax their feet.
We have toys available in a wide range of sizes suitable for different sized birds. A range of materials are optimal for enrichment and provide your birsd with an outlet for destructive behaviours. We have toys for both mental and physical stimulation, and a member of our team will be able to advise.
If you have any questions about the pet you have just purchased then please feel free to give the store you purchased them from a call.
We hope you enjoy your newest lifelong companion and that you have many happy years together.
Never give avocado, onion, rhubard, mushrooms and avoid citrus fruits. Small amounts of orange are ok as a treat.
