Feathered Family Inc.

 

This species is uncommon even in it's native habit South Africa. In 2001 the Cape Parrot went through a reclassification, prior to the reclassification there were 3 subspecies now the Robustus species has only one bird known as P. Robustus (the only true Cape Parrot) the second species, P. Fusicollis and now the Brown-Necked Parrot. Although not on the endangered list a 2002 census reported under 600 in the wild. To read more about the plight of the Cape Parrot please click here: http://www.canadianparrottrust.org/cape.htm

 

The Cape parrot is the largest of the Poicephalus family at 13 inches in length and 250 - 400 grams, sometimes they will seem to be as large as an African Grey. With proper care the Cape Parrot will live up to 40 years. The Minimum cage size for a Cape Parrot is 3'x3'x2', with it being recommended to go far larger. While not considered to be noisy, they have a BIG voice and are excellent talkers, with a more "human" voice then a parrot.

 

Called the "gentle giant" they are not as nippy as some other Poicephalus. Cape Parrots play very hard and sometimes get quite rowdy. They like to fly with their toys, and will chase a ball or walnut all over. Cape Parrot's beaks are large and they are definitely chewers, they can go through a wooden perch in a few days. Be sure to supply a large amount of wooden toys. They also love to play upside down and they will lay on their backs in their owner's hand.