Eclectus

The Eclectus unlike many other parrots belong to one genus, Eclectus, and one species defined as Roratus. Within this species there are 7 to 9 sub species.

The Species that we breed at Parrot Haven Aviary are the Red-Sided Eclectus. Eclectus roratus polychloros.

The male has emerald green plumage, blue in the bend of the wings, and red exposed when in flight under the wing. This is then contrasted by the yellow to orange upper mandible and black lower mandible, and a narrow band of pale yellow on the tip of his tail.

The electrifying well defined colours of the female consist of a red head, black upper and lower mandible, maroon body, breast feathers mostly cobalt to purple, and a striking pale red-pink to orange lower half of her tail.

These birds are truly electrifying in all aspects of the word when it comes to standing out in the bird world of colour. If this is not enough to make the first time viewer of the Eclectus ogle in amazement then lets add another feature that is part of the make up of the Eclectus, the unique appearance that their plumage appears to be hair rather than feathers.

The Red-sided Eclectus is from New Guinea to the north of Australia, and is the most popular Eclectus in Australia.

They are neither destructive or noisy, but are capable of producing a powerful noise if extremely frightened or have a behaviour problem. Their destructive instinct is far less than most other mid-size parrots, but their curiosity to explore may on occasions, turn into disaster for the furniture.

The pronounced sexual dimorphism of the Eclectus allows immediate recognition of the sexes. The difference is so pronounced that they were once thought to be of a different species. The female "Alli" is sitting on my shoulder.

Like most thing people have their own idea to the style of housing they put their birds into based on what they can afford. For the Eclectus the minimum is: 0.6m by 0.6m by 1.2m (2ft by 2ft by 4ft) used in America by breeders, but I like most aviculturist believe that the much larger cages or flight are best.

The flights that house our Eclectus are: 4m by 1.3m by 2.1m (13ft by 4ft 4in by 7ft) with a 1m (3ft 4in) safety walkways on the front of them. Our safety walkways have paid for them selves many times over containing escape birds from their flights, my wife Lyn is only tiny and when she walks into the flights occasionally they fly out over her head ( naturally I laugh ). The ease in which we replace these escapees back into their flight or move a bird between flight without having to catch and handle them causes less stress upon them.

Nutrition is one of the most important concerns in the care of the Eclectus. It is generally agreed that they need optimal amounts of natural Vitamin A in their diet. Also, because of their long digestive tract, we must provide ample amounts of fibre daily. They seem to thrive on a diet based on a wide variety of foods including fresh fruits and vegetables, sprouted seeds and beans, brown rice, beans and peas, high-fibre cereals, a variety of nuts and seeds, and high-quality pellets which are not artificially coloured.

The favourite fruit of most Eclectus is the pomegranate. Unfortunately, it is seasonal and available for a very limited time. Other favourites are apples, grapes, papaya and mango. Cantaloupe, melons, berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, banana, cherries, peaches, pears, apricots, figs, guava, and nectarines are also good sources of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and enzymes which are essential and not only aid in the digestion of food but also stimulate the production of antibodies essential to the maintenance of good health.

The answer to this question is a resounding "YOU BET!" Although considered by many to be the most beautiful of the parrots, Eclectus are not just pretty birds. Rivalling the African Grey and the Amazon in clarity of speech and scope of vocabulary, Eclectus not only repeat many words and phrases but also sing songs and talk to both their human and bird companions. Many Eclectus chicks learn their first word before they are weaned, especially if the hand-feeder repeats a word to them often.

To place your order with Parrot Haven Aviary for a companion Eclectus contact us on 02-67609531.

Click on thumbnail to see larger picture.

Zena 4 months old. hand reared at Parrot Haven Aviary. Look at the magnificent colours that the hen Eclectus has. At 3 months Zena talked. Her first words were "Hello Zena"

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