Ruppell’s Parrot
Description
The Rüppell's parrot (Poicephalus rueppellii) or Rueppell's parrot is a bird that is endemic in southwestern Africa from central Namibia to southwest Angola. It lives in savanna where there are trees or in dry woodland. It is more common near streams or rivers. The name commemorates the German naturalist and explorer Eduard Rüppell.
Rüppell's parrot is 22–25 cm (9 in) long and weighs 121–156 g. It has black feathers. Both adult male and female birds have some yellow feathers on the leading edge of the wings, and yellow feathers covering their upper legs; in immature birds, the yellow is dull or missing. They are sexually dimorphic; adult female birds have blue feathers on the lower back and the rump, whilst male birds lose this blue feather coloration as they become mature.
Scientific Name
Poicephalus Rueppellii
Country Of Origin
Size
Life Expectancy
Noise Level
Quiet
Talk / Trick Ability
Good
Characteristics
Generally quieter than other parrots in the Poicephalus genus, Ruppell’s parrots that have been kept as pets are loveable, cuddly and tend to bond very closely with one person, to the point of being jealous when others show affection to that person. They are reported to be calm, intelligent birds.
Behavior / Health Concerns
In the wild, Ruppell’s parrots eat a variety of seeds, plants and insects. They need a large pet bird cage in which to exercise and freely move around, as well as safe pet bird toys for chewing and foraging.