Many parrot owners might find that once you start with one, it’s hard to stop.
I’ve seen bird owners quickly add companions so that their birds have someone to talk and socialize with throughout the day.
While it’s not a bad idea to give your birds some friends, you want to make sure they will get along since not all birds thrive with other species and some personalities simply aren’t suited for companions.
I was recently asked about the fun-loving quaker parrot and whether it gets along with other birds and thought we should explore the topic.
The answer is yes with a caveat. Quaker parrots get along well with other quakers and are generally tolerant of other birds, but they require regular attention and can get territorial over their nests so it may be best to assess your situation before bringing a quaker parrot into your home.
Quaker parrots require a lot of interaction and bond closely with their owners, which is why it’s best to determine if you have the time to devote to socializing with them so that they don’t feel competitive with other birds.
Whenever introducing new birds to your home, it’s important to consider all factors, especially your birds’ personalities.
Quaker parrots can be especially loyal and affectionate with their owners and are smart and fun, making them great pets.
This article introduces quaker parrots, what they look like, their personality, how to care for them, and whether they could be right for you.
What is a quaker parrot?
Quaker parrots are a mid-sized bird – about 12 inches in length.
They are said to have gotten their name because of the way they shake and bob their heads – often when they are excited, hungry, or agitated.
Quaker parrots are known for having a lot of character and can be very outgoing and talkative.
They are indigenous to South America and can live up to 30 years if properly cared for.
A quaker parrot is predominantly lime green with some blue under its wings.
It’s most distinctive feature is gray coloring around its face, neck, and chest.
They are also known by the name ‘monk parrot’ which some say may be due to this gray coloring that resembles a hood often worn by monks.
What is the personality of a quaker parrot?
Quaker parrots are known for having a big personality – they are very intelligent, social, and like to talk.
They do best in a home where they are part of daily activities and enjoy time with their owners.
If you decide to add a quaker parrot to your family make sure to make time each day for handling and socializing with them – that is key to maintaining quakers’ gregarious personality.
Quaker parrots like to make their house their home and will build elaborate nests inside their cages.
As a result they can be territorial, which is why it might be a good idea to assess your situation before bringing a quaker parrot home.
Are quaker parrots illegal?
Quaker parrots are voracious chewers and can be destructive when they colonize an area in the wild, which is why they have been banned in some places and labeled as an “agricultural pest.”
In the wild, quakers can multiply very quickly and have been known to destroy crops or threaten other native birds.
Feral colonies of quakers live in urban areas all over, including Florida, the Northeast, and the Midwest.
Make sure to check whether or not quaker parrots are illegal in your area before bringing one home.
Are quaker parrots loud?
Quaker parrots are not necessarily loud, but they are talkative.
They can learn phrases and love to repeat words, sing, and engage in conversation.
If you have more than one quaker, they can feed off each other and sing together, but generally they are not considered especially loud birds.
What do quaker parrots eat?
Like most other birds, quaker parrots do best with a pellet diet, however they love fruit, vegetables, and nuts.
You can add those into their daily meals or place them directly into their cage. Any fruits or vegetables not eaten should be removed.
Many quaker parrots are said to enjoy root vegetables, peppers, and colorful produce.
Do quaker parrots need a lot of care?
Quaker parrots need daily interaction and socialization.
They enjoy cuddling and can be hand-fed.
They are also very open to being trained, especially if food is used as an incentive.
Quakers do best with a large cage so they can build their nests.
Quakers need a lot of stimulation, which is why toys are also especially important in their home.
They enjoy dismantling toys and chewing them up.
Ensuring quakers have enough things to chew, climb, and hang off of is important in order to keep them occupied.
If they don’t get enough interaction they can become depressed.
Domestic quaker parrots are easier to train and bond with, while formerly wild quakers are more challenging and will take more time to get trained and socialized.
Are quaker parrots good for beginners?
Yes, quaker parrots can be good for beginners.
Quakers are smart, talkative and have a lot of personality and their loyalty and affection for their owners make them especially appealing as pets.
The caveat is that owners must be prepared to spend time with them every day – without this regular interaction quakers’ personalities can change.
It’s easy to understand why quaker parrots are so popular – their loyalty and their outgoing personality is why so many enjoy them as pets.
But as outlined here, you should consider your circumstances at home and whether you can dedicate the daily time to your quaker parrot before committing to adding one to your family, especially if you have other birds at home.
Hopefully this article provided the information you need on whether quaker parrots are right for you.