Blue-headed Pionus

Weight: 234 - 295 grams

Average size: 28 centimeters

Care

Lifespan: 35 - 45 years

Diet: In the wild, Pionus Parrots feed mostly on seeds, fruits, and flowers. They will also eat clay to neutralize the toxins in the seeds they eat. As with most parrots, commercially available seed diets do not provide enough nutrition and lead to serious and debilitating health problems. A healthy daily diet for a Pionus consists of a formulated pellet and a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits. Since Pionus’ tend to have problems with obesity, whole nuts or seeds should be given as a treat only in very limited amounts. Even better is to offer this special treat in a foraging toy to encourage activities and natural foraging behaviors. In addition, Pionus’ benefit from regular vitamin A in their diet. It is good to offer one vitamin A rich food such as carrots, yams, or sweet potatoes on a daily basis. It is not recommended that vitamins be added to their water or sprinkled on food without the advice of an avian veterinarian. Chocolate, alcohol and caffeine are not metabolized by birds the same way they are metabolized in humans and should never be fed to birds.

Housing: A good minimum sized primary cage for a single pionus would be 36”w x 24”d x 36”h with no more than ¾” bar spacing. The cage should be outfitted with several different perches, swings and toys. It is important to provide play areas away from the cage. Play gyms, outdoor aviaries, window perches etc. not only provide added stimulation they will reduce cage aggression and other challenging behaviors. In addition weekly offers of non-toxic browse (tree trimmings) will keep them busy.

Natural history

The Blue-headed Pionus is found throughout much of Costa Rica, Panama, and northern South America. They have adapted to living in a variety of habitats that included forests, cultivated forests, and riparian habitats. They are highly social and can be found in large flocks at clay licks during non breeding season.

Behavior/ Temperament

Pionus Parrots have lots of personality. The Blue-headed Pionus, as are all parrots, is a noisy bird and makes light, high-pitched squeaking sounds, screeches, and harsh screams. They are, however, comparatively quieter than other parrot species like the Amazons. They can be handed by several people and maintain their sweet disposition. They are shy by nature and require gentle nurturing. They do tend to be completely quiet in front of strangers. They can also do well with other pets if they get used to and accept each other.