CAIQUE PARROT

Caique parrots are thought of as the clown of the parrot world. These colorful birds are not great talkers but they love to learn tricks and show off. They constantly hang from the cage bars, ropes, ladders and toys, whatever is available. They also like to roll on their back and play with toys in their feet. Because of their highly social and active nature, if you do not have a lot of time to devote to your pet, it is recommended that you get a pair so they can have a friend. When training, you will need a firm hand to establish dominance. You should give a new arrival a few days to get use to you, your voice and its cage before trying to handle it. Caiques are most receptive to training in the evening as well as when you are entering or leaving the room. Each session is best if 30 minutes or more with about an hour rest in between. These South American birds have an average lifespan is 40 – 50 years.

Diet

Free feed daily fortified small parrot seed or pellet. Supplement with small amounts of fruits and vegetables: dandelion greens, carrots, cooked broccoli, sweet potato, cucumber, green peppers, zucchini, pineapple, apricot, apples and banana. Many Caiques also enjoy a variety of treats and snacks such a seeds, eggs, and small bits of cheese. Do not feed avocado or rhubarb. A vitamin and mineral supplement may be mixed with food once a week. A cuttlebone or mineral block is important for beak condition and oyster shell or gravel for important minerals.

Housing  

The Caique is considered a medium-sized bird. Provide a roomy cage, minimum 24"L 24"W 24"H, with horizontal bars ¾” apart to make climbing easier along with an outside play area. Place at least two perches at different heights so the droppings do not get into the food. Use various sized perches and branches for healthy feet along with ropes, chains and swings for climbing and exercising. Where you place the cage is important. Place your bird's cage below eye level, near where they can socialize but in a stress-free environment, such as the corner of a living room. Caiques are sensitive to smoke, wind drafts and strong odors. Cover the cage at night to provide a sense of security and prevent drafts. If their environment is too stressful they may pull their feathers out.

Care

Basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Change paper bottoms daily and litter coverings every 2-3 days. Clean and disinfect the cage weekly. Wash and completely dry the perches and toys whenever they become soiled.

Grooming

Caiques generally maintain their beaks on their own through chewing. Your birds will enjoy a bath or a light spray mist of lukewarm water 2 to 3 times weekly. Wings should be kept trim if you want to discourage flight and prevent flight through an open door or window. Occasional nail trims will be needed.

Health

A balanced diet, cleanliness and plenty of exercise will prevent most parrot illnesses. Caiques should be allowed to spend a minimum of one to two hours out of their cages daily, and should be provided with plenty of bird chew toys to facilitate exercising their mandibles. Boredom and lack of socialization can lead to feather plucking, biting and screaming. Some signs of illness: sitting with eyes closed, ruffled feathers, lack of appetite, irregular breathing, nasal discharge, sneezing, resting with its head turned back, and any change in the dropping. Consult an avian veterinarian if any of these signs are noticed.