Feathered Family Inc.
Parrot Rescue and Adoption, Erie CO
~Pionus Parrots~
Beautiful little bundles of fun, the Pionus has a devoted following. Ranging from around 8 inches up to around 12 inches in length they aren't large parrots, but they are packed with personality. Pionus also tend to have softer voices than some of the other parrot species, which makes them more suited to apartment life than most parrots. However, it is important to note that they are capable of very loud noise indeed, just like all parrots. These extremely social birds need interaction to thrive, they crave attention and are happy to give affection to those they deem worthy of it. Pionus owners seem split, about half of them say their birds are friendly and outgoing and the other half say that their birds do not care for strangers at all and would rather bite first and ask questions later. This may be a factor of sub-species, something introduced by how the bird was raised, or simply individual traits. No two parrots are exactly alike. Exercise and play are very important to these beautiful birds, for without it they tend to become overweight and develop health problems.
There are eight species of Pionus, though not all are commonly available to aviculturists. Pionus have been mistaken for Amazons on occasion, but it is simple enough to tell the difference if you know what to look for. All Pionus have red feathers under the tail, which gives them the nickname of Red-vented parrots from some. Male and female Pionus look much the same, and you must determine sex with DNA or surgical sexing to be sure. However, juvenile and adult Pionus have some visual differences, the juvenile's just don't have the remarkable coloration you will see with the adult birds.... yet!
Pionus parrots have more in common with Amazons than their appearance. Some, though not all, Pionus can get extremely wound up and aggressive during mating season. It is important to get to know your bird so that you are ready and able to deal with potential problems rather than being overwhelmed by them. They are also known to have a musky scent, like Amazons, which some people may not enjoy. Most Pionus owners love this scent, but a potential owner needs to be sure that they enjoy this scent before committing to a lifetime with a Pionus parrot.
The diet of a Pionus is similar to that for all parrots, fresh fruits and vegetables, pellets, and some seed. A healthy diet helps create a healthy bird and should be priority. Bathing is also very important, it helps keep the bird in good health and helps maintain the lovely feather condition. Caging a Pionus needs some consideration because they are active birds and will not fare well in tiny cages. We recommend a minimum size of 36"x36"x50" with half inch bar spacing. While this may seem large to some, give your bird a cage this size and he or she will use every last inch of it.
Pionus are generally very easy going birds who enjoy spending time with their flock, and also are able to entertain themselves for short periods of time. However, adult Pionus have been known to have some difficult behaviors and one must be prepared for mating season aggression. Birds can become overprotective of a favorite person, or even a favorite location. While this is totally normal it is not always easy for the owner to accept after living with an easy going baby for years. Keep in mind that parrots have hormonal seasons and humans who choose to share their lives with them must acclimate to this. Parrots, Pionus included, are not domestic animals and when we take them into our homes it should be with an understanding of that.
Pionus parrots are generally healthy birds, though they do seem to be more predisposed to Aspergillosis than some other birds. However, one long time successful breeder of Pionus states that this is untrue. Perhaps more cases of Aspergillosis are attributed to Pionus because more necropsy are done than in some other species? The devotion of Pionus owners is legendary, so that would not be surprising. A natural behavior in Pionus has led many a frightened human to high speed drives to the vets office, only to discover that it is normal. Pionus who are frightened or excited will sometimes wheeze loudly, sounding like they are having a severe asthma attack. This is totally normal and nothing to be worried about. Some Pionus even use this sound during affectionate moments, resembling a cats purr.
