Feathered Family Inc.
Parrot Rescue and Adoption, Erie CO
Caique
Black-headed Parrot and White-bellied Parrot
(Pionites Melanocephala) and (Pionites Leucogaster)
These amazingly beautiful birds are rarely seen, but I predict this will change! Their popularity is increasing as you read this. Often, ones first thought upon looking at them is "Different colored Lorikeet", but these marvelous birds are amazing in their own right. Becoming known for extreme intelligence, and comical (mischievous) behaviors, they are an aviculturists dream! Coming in four species (the black capped, and white bellied being most common), one could easily confuse any of them if he hadn't seen them side by side. The black capped species most assuredly looks like its wearing a darling little black hat. With a name that can be tough to wrap your tongue around, they are not often discussed outside of those who love them. Pronounced: KI-EEKS. I know, that doesn't help me much either!
Famed for their clowning, and fun behaviors they are adored by many fans. One should be cautious when sitting because they are known to enjoy tunneling under blankets and it would be horrible to have your darling Caique sat upon! Additionally, they love to climb in human hair, where they can easily become territorial! It does require DNA testing to properly know the sex of these beautiful birds. Caiques are not said to be exceptional talkers, but they are known for chirping and singing, especially when more than one of these gems are kept in the same flock. However, their volume is not as deafening as some of the other species of parrots (Cockatoos, Macaws, Conures, Etc). This is a blessing for those of us who enjoy sharing our lives with a parrot but live in close quarters. Don't take this to mean that they cannot make extreme noise if displeased, one must keep these bundles of activity entertained. Caiques enjoy wrestling with each other, and should be separated after 45-60 minutes to allow them to rest. Similar to many other species of parrots, they exhibit the behavior of a 2-year old child, all the time!
When you see a baby Caique, what you see, is not what you get! As the baby of some of the species matures, it will devolop its orange/peach cap, or keep its black cap. The beautiful white belly, and black or horned colored beak also come with maturity. The beak in some juveniles is black colored, much like the Eclectus, then turns a horn color after a few months. White the eye of the adult Caique has an orange-red iris, the young will have a dark brown or black iris.
It is said that a Caique will prefer climbing and hopping around to flying, which means one should provide plenty of climb and play areas for them to enjoy. When caging these parrots you should consider proper bar spacing so they cannot get their heads out and possibly harm themselves. Also, try to provide plenty of room for their antics, even if you plan on having them out of the cage often, no one likes to live in a tiny space. It is highly recommended that the Caique be housed in a minimum of a 28" x 24" cage to accommodate their hyperactive behaviors. It has been suggested that if you wish to keep a pair of Caiques you get both while young, and more flexable to your choices of a partner than they will become when older.
Extremely well cared for Caiques may live to be upwards of 30 years old, but this is very uncommon in captivity. Be sure you provide the proper diet, lighting, and health care for your companion. A Caique averages around 9 inches long and 150-165 grams in weight.
