Pionus
Pionus parrots make great pets, since they are a happy-medium for those who want a larger parrot without the screeching and high-strung attitudes. Completely opposite of this, Pionus are calm, and most owners find the noise to be a lot less than that of a cockatoo or Macaw. Basically, there are eight kinds of Pi. Five are kept as pets and three are still in the wild. Blue-headed, White-capped, Maximilian’s, Bronze-winged, and Dusky are all great pet birds, but the plum-crowned, white-headed, and coral-billed haven’t been domesticated quite yet. At 9 to 12 inches in length, Pionus are medium sized birds who aren’t known for their talking ability. Although some may learn a couple of words, you should be able to look past this if you want to get such a personality-packed bird. Talking ability doesn’t disrupt the value of a parrot. They are still beautiful, playful, and as perfect as any other bird, despite that one set-back.
A medium to large sized (Suitable for a Senegal) parrot cage would fit any Pionus perfectly. They love Conure to African Grey sized toys, and are birds that need time to themselved to be completely happy. If you want a bird that is happy to be the center of attention like a cockatoo, then maybe a Pionus isn’t for you. They are much more mellow and quiet than those large parrots, and, although moderately priced, Pionus offer different things besides the traits of an average bird.
As far as diet goes, again I’d have to recommend a pelleted diet supplemented with fresh vegetables. Concerned about which vegetables to feed? Carrots, celery, green pepper, kale, parsley, peas, sprouts, and cooked beans are all great options. As far as fruit goes, diced skinned mangos, apple, orange, banana, blueberries, cranberries, and strawberries make great treats. Always wash thoroughly, and don’t leave fresh food in the cage for more than 4 to 6 hours.
Pionus parrots are known to breathe heavily when they are excited or upset. This may worry many, since a sign of sickness in parrots is exhasperation, breathing difficulties, or open-mouthed breathing. Just to be sure, a stop by the vet is your best bet. Their wheezing may be related to respitory problems, but its most likely something else. You can never be safe enough in these situations.
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