Australian Parakeets

by Warwick Remington Ballarat, Victoria, Australia j ohn Gould is regarded by many as Unlike American and English avi­ hobby in Australia. the father of ornithology in Australia. culturists, Australians are fortunate to be Intestinal worms have been a prob­ In 1839 he wrote of our parrots "no able to keep native species in captivi­ lem with aviary birds for many years. The group of birds gives Australia so foreign ty under license. high susceptibility of Australian par­ an air as the numerous species of this Many species are now bred in such rots to this problem was first recognized great family each and all of which are numbers that disposal of excess birds in the 1960s. Most Australian species, with very abundant." can be difficult. Some aviculturists now the exception oflorikeets and some cock­ This statement is largely true today choose not to breed from the com­ atoos, are ground feeding birds. When with most parrot species being found mon species as there is no demand for kept in confinement (often in damp in good numbers in the wild. However youngsters bred. Ironically, species aviaries) the likelihood ofworm infes­ two species, the Night Parrot and the such as the Princess Parrot and the tation is very high. The popularity of Paradise Parrot, do verge on the brink Scarlet-chested Parrot, which are two of Australian parrots worldwide in the ofextinction. Some would argue that the Australia's rarest species in the wild, fit 1960s and the 1970s probably stimulated Paradise Parrot has already gone the way into this category. the early veterinary research into this of the Dodo. Many of our Australian With the large numbers of birds prevalent aviary disease. species have adapted well to European being bred in certain species the Housing settlement and can now be found in and inevitable production of mutations has Traditionally Australian parrots have around our cities and towns. occurred. Many Australian avicultur­ been kept in open flighted aviaries Of the 330 parrot species found ists are now specialiZing in the breed­ with an attached shelter section. throughout the world, 60 or so occur in ing of color mutations in their various Fortunately the climate in Australia is mild Australia. This diversity ofspecies is not forms. In recent times, however, there enough to allow parrots to be kept matched by the parrots from any other seems to be more aviculturists express­ out of doors. country. From our Cockatoos, both ing concern that some species are In recent times lorikeet breeders black and white, to the tiny fig parrots beginning to lose genetic integrity. realized the merits of housing their ofthe Queensland rain forest, the range A concerted effort is also being made birds in suspended flights. Despite the ofspecies is incredibly diverse. Habitat by some breeders to keep both species fact that lorikeet breeders seem to be uti­ obviously plays an important role when and subspecies genetically pure. For liZing dry diets to a greater extent, it comes to the diversity ofour many par­ example, in recent years those keeping these birds still have liquid droppings rot species. species such as the Port Lincoln Parrot which are best suited to suspended It should be noted that there is obvi­ or its subspecies, the Twenty Eight aviary floors. ouslya close affinity between the cock­ Parrot, have begun to carefully select Apart from some ofthe smalllorikeets atoos, Eclectus parrot, lorikeets and birds that are true to type. In my opin­ and grass parakeets, an all-steel aviary fig parrots of New Guinea and the ion this augers well for the future ofour is recommended to avoid the prob- Islands to Australia's north and our own endemic species. However, many ofthe other Austalian species are unique members of the parrot family. DESPERATELY NEEDED The history ofaviculture in Australia shows that parrots have been kept and Professional Videographer&Video Film Editing bred in captivity for at least 150 years. In the early days stocks of birds were for ShortAvicultural Video easily replenished by trapping, however, Ifyou have professional level video skills in the last 30 years stocks have been maintained and increased by success­ and/orvideo editing skills, ful captive breeding. Wild-trapped birds your services are neededASAP were usually more difficult to establish Please contact: Laurella Desborough in captivity than those that are (now) aviary-bred. The keeping ofnon-domes­ via fax: (510) 372-0306 ticated pet birds in single cages has ormail: L. Desborough decreased dramatically over this same PO. Box273112, Concord, CA 94527 period oftime due to the implementa­ tion of wildlife protection laws.

afa WATCHBIRD 45 lem of birds chewing aviary wood by breeders. work. Double wire between flights is also Trlchoglossus - Psitteuteles ­ The Varied Lorikeet on the other required as most Australian parrots will Glossopsitta hand is considered by most breeders to squabble through the wire and in some Australia has seven members ofthe be the most difficult ofthe Australian lori­ cases injuries can occur. Half inch lorikeets family and all are reasonably keets to breed. As this species inhabits weldmesh is the most common wire well established in aviculture. They northern Australia it has not adapted eas­ used in aviary construction for all are nomadic birds in the wild and can ily to the colder conditions provided to Australian parrots, as distinct from the often be seen in large numbers where it in southern aviaries. cockatoos, which require heavy gauge nectar producing blossoms are found. Although numerous color mutations wire. In my home city ofBallarat we have the ofAustralian lorikeets have been bred Some aviculturists have been suc­ pleasure of seeing three species, the over the years, the Olive Scaly-breasted cessful in breeding certain parrot species Musk Lorikeet, Little Lorikeet and the Lorikeet is the only established muta­ on a colony system. I have seen the Purple-crowned Lorikeet when the tion in Australian aviaries. The Olive neophemas, lorikeets and the Princess eucalyptus are flowering. Scaly-breasted has been hybridized Parrot bred on the colony system. There is obViously a close affinity with other lorikeet species in an attempt Rarely have I seen colonies work suc­ between the Australian lorikeets and to introduce the olive mutation. I have cessfully when species are mixed. It is those from New Guinea and Indonesia. grave reservations regarding the breed­ generally accepted that one pair to an The Rainbow Lorikeet and Red-col­ ing of mutations by this method. aviary will produce better breeding lared Lorikeet are but two ofthe 21 sub­ A number of hybrids have been results. species of haematodus recognized by recorded within the Lorikeet family. Forshaw. These 21 subspecies range from One of the most unusual hybrids Feeding Tanzania through Australia's eastern occurred in Victoria where a Rainbow The key to maintaining in good and northern coastal forests to New Lorikeet hybridized with an Australian health the birds in your care is the Guinea, Indonesia and South West King Parrot. supply of a well balanced diet. Pacific Islands. All Australian lorikeet species can be Most Australian parrots in the wild eat Our Varied Lorikeet also shows many difficult to sex by observation, so sur­ a wide variety of food which includes similarities to Goldie's Lorikeet ofNew gical sexing is advisable. Lorikeet breed­ fruits, seeds and berries. Their diet is Guinea. ing has benefitted greatly from the largely seasonal which can be duplicated In the early days of Australian avi­ introduction of this method ofsexing. to some extent in the aviary. Different culture lorikeets were kept on poor forms of green food, berries and fruits diets, often being fed seed only. This of Cyclopsitta are available for limited times through­ course led to the lorikeets being diffi­ Australia has three of the eight sub­ out the year and can be fed when'they cult to maintain and breed in captivity. species ofthe Double-eyed Fig Parrot, are in season. Over the past 15 years lorikeet breed­ which are found in northeastern Australia. Prior to the breeding season it is ers have begun to improve the dietary The other members ofthis species are important to increase the supply of requirements of these birds. found in New Guinea and its sur­ green food, seeding grasses and soaked As aviary birds the lorikeets are both rounding islands. seed. When feeding green food and active and noisy inmates. They are also Australia's three subspecies are the seeding grasses it is always wise to aggressive towards other species but will Red-browed Fig Parrot Cd. macleayana, check that it is uncontaminated by ani­ live and breed in colonies with their own the Blue-browed Fig Parrot Cd. coxeni mals or chemical sprays. Soaked seed kind. and the Marshall's Fig Parrot Cd. mar­ should be soaked in water treated with The advantages ofcleanliness and dis­ shalli. Ofthe three only the Red-browed an antibacterial solution. Fruit in the form ease control make suspended aviaries Fig Parrot is currently found in avicul­ of apples, oranges and grapes is also the best choice in housing lorikeets. For ture. Whilst stocks ofthese lovely little appreciated. those keeping lorikeets in other than sus­ birds are low, a few breeders are now These additions will help stimulate pended aviaries, concrete floors are a beginning to have some success with pairs into breeding, as the extra foods necessity. As lorikeets are active birds them. Those who have bred them rec­ given mirrors conditions in the wild prior I recommend a minimum aviary size of ommend they not be fed an oily or fat­ to breeding. When youngsters hatch it 9 ft. x 2.5 ft. The smaller lorikeets have tening diet as they do tend to become is also important to continue a regular also been kept and bred in large plant­ overweight rather quickly. They also take daily supply ofthese additives. Vitamin ed aviaries without damage to plant life. live food in the form of mealworms, supplements are very easy to include Lorikeets that are now kept in sus­ especially when breeding. with soaked seed. Some aviculturists in pended aviaries should be wormed on The Blue-browed Fig Parrot is an Australia also feed plain cake and a regular basis. extreme rarity in the wild. It was recent­ whole grain bread to parrots feeding Both the Rainbow and Red-collared ly observed in the mountainous rain youngsters. Lorikeets are hardy aviary birds which forests of southeastern Queensland The feeding ofAustralian lorikeets is has enabled them both to become well after a long absence from bird lists. a subject in its own right. Lorikeet established in captivity. Marshall's Fig Parrot is found on the breeders in Australia are now widely Over the last 15 years the smaller lori­ eastern side ofCape York Peninsula but using dry food mixes as a staple food keets have also been established in is not kept in captivity at present. diet. To this they add a liqUid nectar for­ aviculture. The Purple-crowned, Little mula as well as a variety of fruit in sea­ and Musk Lorikeets have all respond­ Aprosmictus son. ed well to the improved diets being used The Red-winged Parrot is the only 46 July/August 1995 member ofthis genus found in Australia. on the ground in a quiet corner of the problem. Young birds attain adult Another member inhabits Timor and aviary. If this occurs it is wise to provide plumage at about two years of age. adjacent islands to the north ofAustralia. them a little privacy by placing a low wall There are two recognized subspecies between the brooding hen and the Eclectus of the Red-winged Parrot found in aviary front. There are 10 subspecies ofEclectus Australia. The nominate form occurs in Adult birds can be sexed visually. Parrots found in New Guinea, the northern New South Wales and south­ However, young birds cannot be sexed Solomon Islands and Australia's Cape ern Queensland. A smaller and gener­ until adult plumage is attained at two York Peninsula. Only one ofthe ten sub­ ally duller subspecies is found across the to three years. species E. r. macgillivrayi which is the top section ofthe Australian continent. largest of the subspecies, occurs in It is probably only the last 10 to 15 Alisterus Australia. years that aviary bred stocks of this There is only one member of this Aviary stocks ofour own subspecies species have become available to avi­ genus found in Australia, with two are very low, having only entered avi­ culturists. In the past, trapped birds other members occurring in New Guinea culture in recent years. There are, how­ were the only birds available to breed­ and the Moluccas. The range ofthe King ever, good numbers ofthe New Guinea ers and, unfortunately, heavy losses Parrot extends down the forested moun­ race which have been kept and bred in were recorded. Many birds brought tain areas ofthe east coast ofAustralia. our country for many years. It is prob­ from the north to southern aviaries A subspecies of the Australian race able that this aviary population is not seemed to fade away within weeks of occurs in far north Queensland. Itvaries genetically pure as the original aviary arrival. This problem was finally over­ from the nominate race by being slight­ stocks originated from indeterminate come when trapped birds were fed 1y smaller. sources. They are popular aviary birds on a diet ofsoaked maize before being Like the Red-winged Parrot the King which can breed quite freely when weaned onto hard seed. Parrot prefers a long log extending to given suitable dietary and housing con­ Red-winged Parrots can become the ground level. When a compatible pair ditions. quite spiteful when breeding so pairs is obtained they make quite good Successful breeders with this species should be kept in isolation. A log or box breeders. If King Parrots fail to nest the all mention the importance of feeding up to six feet in length is often successful pair should be swapped around until a a varied fruit diet. in enticing them to nest. If the log compatible pair is obtained. eXtends to ground level you will fmd they The sexing of immature birds can be Polytelis nest at this level. I have also seen Red­ difficult so surgical sexing is an option There are three members of this winged Parrots nest and rear youngsters that can be used to overcome this genus found in Australia. The Princess

Arizona Avian Seminar 1995 Presented by Arizona Seed Crackers Society SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8TH, NOON TO 5:00 pm Mesa Community Center Rendezvous Center, Superstition Ball Room 263 N. Center, Mesa, AZ 85201 Featured Speakers: RICK JORDAN on incubation Registration Fees: CHERIE MASON on avian behavior April 15 - July 31 ASCS Members­ $25 per member Avian Veterinarian Panel featuring: April 15 - July 31 Early Bird - $30 per person KATE McCULLOUGH, DVM August 1 - September 30 - $40 per person DANIEL BURKE, DVM On-site - $50 per person NANCY MURBACH, DVM

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR SPONSORSHIP OF THIS EVENT: Humldalre Incubator Company • Zelgler/UlUMax • Premium Pet Foods • Birds of the World The Seminar raffles will feature a Humidaire incubator, a deluxe parrot cage and a large manzanita play stand. Raffle tickets are available at $1.00 each. For registration/Information call Diane (602) 983·6878

afa WATCHBIRD 47 Parrot, Superb Parrot and Regent Parrot ofat least 15 ft. in length is desirable as three subspecies are well established in are all popular aviary birds in Australia. it allows them a little more privacy. Australian aviaries. All three species are well established Although they are nervous aviary The Northern Rosella is found in with large aviary populations. The birds, they do breed quite well in cap­ the north of Australia. In captivity the Princess Parrot is rare in the wild and tivity. nominate race is reasonably well estab­ the Superb parrot is now becoming Females tend to be duller versions of lished, although in Australia they are still rare as well. the male birds. the most expensive ofthe Rosella fam­ The only subspecies recorded for ily. However, a little known subspecies this genus is the western race of the Platycercus Pv. hilli is not well known in aviculture. Regent Parrot. The males of this sub­ The rosella family is one of the The cheek patches ofthis subspecies are species are not as brightly colored as the largest Australian parrot families. All violet blue. nominate form. members are represented in Australian The smallest member of the rosella As these birds are ground feeders from aviculture and most are well estab­ family is the Western Rosella. It is found arid regions in the wild, they do pick up lished in other parts of the world. in the southwest corner of Western intestinal worms easily in captivity. As most members of this family are Australia. As an aviary bird they are very The Princess Parrot is, in my opinion, usually pugnacious they should be popular, being free breeders and bright­ the most susceptible ofall Australian par­ kept one pair to an aviary. Some pairs ly colored. There is only one recorded rots to worm infestation. Regular med­ may also fight, causing the death of a subspecies, the Red-backed Western ication for worms as well the provision partner. Rosella Pi. zanthogenys. It is distin­ ofclean dry aviary conditions is essen­ Apart from the Western Rosella all guished from the nominate race by hav­ tial. members show little sexual dimor­ ing more red in the back, paler yellow The three species are sexually dimor­ phism, so surgical sexing is recom­ cheek patches and a grayish-green phic when they reach adult plumage at mended. rump. This subspecies has received a two years of age. Rosellas are easy to care for with great deal of interest from aviculturists One feature that is unique to the regard to diet as they will thrive on a in recent years. Unfortunately many Princess Parrot is the spatula wing mixed seed diet with the addition of of the birds being sold as the Red­ feather found on adult male birds. I am green food, soaked seed and fruit. back form do not possess all the nec­ not aware of any other species dis­ The Green Rosella from Tasmania is essary plumage characteristics. playing a spatula feather. the largest member of the rosella fam­ ily. Until recent years it was uncommon Geoffroyus Lathamus in Australia's mainland aviaries. The Red-cheeked Parrot from Cape Historically many regarded the Swift Fortunately, numbers increased. The rea­ York Peninsula is one of 16 subspecies. Parrot as a member ofthe lorikeet fam­ son for this increase in numbers is All other members of this genus are ily. In the wild they feed and move probably due to improved husbandry found in the islands to the north of through the forest canopy like lori­ techniques as well as the high value Australia. keets. Their diets in the wild, howev­ placed on these birds during the last 10 This species, although not uncommon er, includes a large proportion ofinsects, to 15 years. in the wild, is unknown to aviculture in berries and fruit. Probably the most beautiful member Australia and elsewhere. Very few mem­ The Swift Parrot normally breeds in of the rosella family is the Crimson bers ofthis genus have ever been kept the island state of Tasmania and its Rosella, which is a common aviary in captivity. They have been described surrounding islands and migrates to bird. There are, however, very few as being very delicate. southeastern Australia during the autumn bred in captivity due, in part, to their low It is to be hoped that in the future avi­ and winter. value and the ease with which illegal­ culturists will have the opportunity of This species has in the past been large­ ly taken birds find their way into avi­ keeping and feeding these lovely birds. ly unsuccessful in Australian aviaries. culture. There are a number of During recent years, with the intro­ recognized subspecies recorded, with Barnardius duction of improved aviary feeding, the notable ones being known as the This particular genus ofbroad tailed reasonable numbers are now being Adelaide Rosella and the Yellow Rosella. parrots has been classified by various produced. For many years European As its name suggests the Eastern ornithologists in a number of different breeders have done well with Swift Rosella inhabits the southeastern section arrangements. Forshaw recognizes two Parrots. ofAustralia, including Tasmania. There species: the Port Lincoln and the Mallee Females tend to be less brightly col­ are two recorded subspecies, the first Ringneck Parrot. Each ofthese species ored than males. However, surgical being the Golden-mantled Rosella Pe. having three subspecies. sexing is recommended. cecilae being found in the northern Aviculturists in Australia keep the parts ofthe range. The second subspecies Port Lincoln Parrot and its subspecies, Purpureicephalus Pe. diemenensis from Tasmania dif­ the Twenty Eight Parrot. In recent years The sole member ofthis genus is the fers from the nominate race in having increased efforts have been made to Red-capped Parrot ofthe forested areas much larger white cheek patches. breed pure strains ofboth races. The Port of south western Australia. Eastern Queensland is the home of Lincoln Parrot should have a pure yel­ Unless handreared, this species tends the Pale-headed Rosella and its three sub­ low belly and no red on the forehead. to be a very nervous aviary inmate. They species. Each of the subspecies is dif­ The Twenty Eight Parrot should show often fly about the aviary with reckless ferentiated by the amount of blue a pale green belly and red on the fore­ abandon when disturbed. An aviary shown on the head and neck region. All head. Many aviary birds show markings 48 July/August 1995 AFA's 1995 FUND RAISING CAMPAIGN "AVICCILTCIRISTS: FOR THE BIRDS"

This campaign supports major funding for: • AFA RED-FRONTED MACAW RECOVERY PROJECT • AFA RED SISKIN BREEDING AND FIELD SUPPORT •& AFA AVICULTURE PROMOTION ACTIVITIES

Let's show the true level of excellence and commitment that a dedicated GRASS ROOTS Avicultural Organization can accomplish "FOR THE BIRDS" we care for and love. Contributions supporting the success of these important campaign programs can have major impact on the future status of aviculture in this country.

FULL MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT IS CRITICAL TO THE SUCCESS OF THIS CAMPAIGN.

We ask that members pledge a minimum of $5.00 per month for the next twelve months (or a one time donation of $50.00 or more). Your contributions will provide monies for the continuation of these outstanding, totally AFA supported, conservation projects and help to increase the effectiveness and scope of our organization's avicultural promotion activities. Our 1995 funding goal is $275,000.00.

WORKING TOGETHER, WE CAN DO IT. • As a member ofAFA, • Step forward and be counted. • Stand behind what we believe. • Help promote a positive image ofaviculture.

Others often focus on the worst of us. It's time, we show them the best of us. Use the envelope provided and send in your pledge or donation TODAY. Contributions are tax deductible to the extend allowed.

American Federation of Aviculture • P.O. Box 56218 • Phoenix, AZ 85079-6218 (602) 484-0931 • Fax (602) 484-0109

afa WATCHBIRD 49 which indicate that cross-breeding ofthe beautiful bird. Unfortunately this species non-green member ofthe genus, inhab­ two races has occurred in the past. verges on extinction and many ornithol­ its arid areas of central Australia. This The Port Lincoln Parrot and its subspecies ogists consider it to be already extinct. spedes, with its color mutations, is a well are found in the western regions of From time to time unconfirmed reports established and popular aviary bird in Australia whereas the Mallee Ringneck ofsightings ofthis species occur. Let us our country Parrot and its subspecies occur in east­ hope that this lovely species still survives Both the Elegant and Blue-winged ern Australia. within its range ofnortheast New South Parrots are very similar in appearance The nominate race, the Mallee Wales and southeast Queensland. ,so some care should be taken when Ringneck, is found in good numbers in All members of this family are easi­ selecting birds for breeding. I have captivity. Once a compatible pair is ly sexed when adult plumage is obtained. noticed a number ofbirds in our coun­ obtained they can become reliable try that have obviously been hybrids breeders. Aviculturists in our country have Northiella between these two species. Both species always prized the subspecies known as The Blue Bonnet Parrot with its two are well established both in the wild and the Cloncurry Parrot. Its soft pastel col­ subspecies was previously classified in captivity in Australia. orings make it a truly lovely bird. with the Psephotus Parrots. This species It is only in recent times that Rock All members of the Barnardius is without doubt the most aggressive of Parrot numbers have begun to increase genus show little sexual dimorphism, so the Australian parrots. It is definitely a to a position where they are now easy surgical sexing is recommended. species that needs to be kept one pair to obtain. Whilst they are not at all to an aviary. rare in the wild, they were historically Psephotus The nominate Yellow-vented and considered a difficult bird to breed in This genus ofparrots contains two dis­ the Red-vented race are found in arid captivity. This species does not appear tinct groups. The first being the Red­ regions ofNew South Wales, Victoria and to be well represented in aviculture rumped Parrot and the Mulga Parrots. parts of south Australia, the Red-vent­ outside Australia. The second embraces the "Ant Hill ed birds being found in the northern The beautiful Scarlet-chested Parrot Parrots": the Hooded, Golden-shouldered reaches of their range. A second sub­ is a real rarity in the wild. They are only and Paradise Parrots. These parrots are species known as the Little Blue Bonnet sighted on odd occasions in various loca­ referred to as "Ant Hill" parrots because is found in the southeast of western tions throughout their Central Australian of their habit of nesting in termite Australia. In contrast to the yellow and range. I once recall one ofAustralia's emi­ mounds. red-vented races this subspecies is not nent "parrot men," Len Robinson, Both the Mulga and Rcd-rumped well represented in Australian aviaries. describe his first sighting ofthis species Parrots are quite common in the wild, Wildlife authorities in west Australia in the wild. He said that the sighting of a fact that certainly does not apply to have recently given selected avicultur­ a lone female Scarlet-chested parrot the second group, known as die "Ant ists in that state some wild-caught birds "brought a tear to his eye." This, I Hill" parrots. to breed with. This project has seen an think, amply demonstrates its rarity. The Red-rumped Parrots, including increase in captive numbers. In captivity this species has thrived its many color mutations, are extreme­ Aviculturists have in recent years and is found in good numbers through­ ly common in Australian aviaries. In early been careful in not mixing the yellow­ out the world. years the Mulga Parrots was known vented and red-vented races. The two The Orange-bellied Parrot is the as a delicate bird, however in recent points to note when differentiating rarest ofthe Neophemas in the wild with times this species has become firmly these birds are that the red-vented possibly less than 200 birds remaining. established in captivity. should show red median wing-coverts Their numbers are holding on with The Hooded Parrot is the best known and aqua wing shoulders. In contrast the the recent captive-breeding program of the "Ant Hill" parrots and has now yellow-vented birds have olive median being undertaken, which suggests the increased its Australian aviary num­ wing coverts and bright blue wing future for this species is reasonably bers tremendously. Together with the shoulders. bright. The Department ofLands, Parks closely related Golden-shouldered Parrot and Wtldlife in Tasmania has bred a num­ they have a reputation ofnesting in our Neophema ber ofbirds in captivity, some ofwhich colder winter months and not brooding There are seven members of this have been successfully released into the their chicks after ten days ofage. Many family ofsmall grass parrots. All but the wild flock. The 1993-94 breeding sea­ aviculturists have overcome this prob­ Orange-bellied Parrot are well known son saw 33 youngsters being reared in lem with the use of heated nesting to aviculture in Australia. The popularity captivity by the DLPW. Another 30 boxes. Having bred a number ofHooded ofthis group ofparrots has contributed youngsters were bred in the wild in nest Parrots over the years, I would rec­ greatly to the hobby ofaviculture world­ boxes provided for their use. In addi­ ommend that they be prevented from wide. tion to these birds, a further 31 birds were bathing when they have chicks under They have adapted well to captivity mist-netted, which brings the total of three weeks ofage. I fmd that when they and breed quite freely. All species youngsters bred to 94. This is without bathe they return to the log to feed show sexual dimorphism which has, I doubt one ofthe most successful breed­ youngsters, which causes the log to am sure, contributed to their excellent ing seasons on record for this endan­ become quite damp. breeding capabilities. gered member ofthe Neophema family. John Gould named the Paradise When observing Neophemas in the They are a migratory species with the Parrot Pulcherrimuswhich means most wild, the most notable feature seen is birds breeding in the rugged south­ beautiful or most fair. This description their very small size. west ofTasmania. Following the breed­ is very appropriate for this particularly The Bourke's Parrot, being the only ing season they cross Bass Strait to 50 July/August 1995 mainland Victoria where they winter in Museum (Sydney) discovered the decay­ coastal regions. ing body ofa Night Parrot alongside an "Aviculturally Speaking" There are no Orange-bellied Parrots outback Queensland road. This was "If it be desired to t1y and get a in private aviculture in Australia. the first confirmed sighting of this pair to breed, a few mealworms or species since the early pan of this cen­ daddy-long-legs may be added to Melopsittacus tury. the ordinary diet, but even these The Budgerigar is one of the world's References should never be offered to a soli­ most popular cage birds. Its suitability Chisholm, A.H. 1965. Bird Wonders of Australia. talY Leadbeater, kept as a pet in a for adaption to cage life is well recog­ Halstead Press, Sydney, Australia. Forshaw, J.M., 1989. Parrots of the World (3rd cage, or chained to an ordinaly nized. This species has been bred for rev. ed.). Lansdowne Editions, Willoughby, parrot stand; for the degree that, many years throughout the world and Australia. where they are unable to gratify can now be seen in numerous color for­ Hutchins, B.R. & Lovell, R.H. 1985. Australian Parrots: A Field and Aviary Study, The their inclinations in the natural mats. Avicultural Society of Australia, Melbourne, way, they, velY frequently, turn to Unfonunately in Australia aviary Australia. and strip themselves of every stocks of the "wild type" Budgerigar are Sindel, S. 1986. Australian Lorikeets. Singil Press, feather they can reach... " low. In recent times some aviculturists Chipping Norton, Australia. Reprinted from AFA Annual Conference WT Greene, MD. 1884 (myself included) have shown interest Proceedings, 1994. ~ in breeding these delightful little birds. During the last two years Budgerigar show breeders have imported English show stock, which has further removed any similarity between the "wild type" and show birds. o ,,6\ft In the wild this species is quite com­ mon and ranges over most of inland ~" Australia where suitable conditions RB20 - RB25 - RB30 exist. They can be seen in huge flocks ~ RB35.RB50.RB80 and have been known to darken the sky 'when flying overhead. Alec Chisholm NEW UNIQUE SYSTEM in his book Bird Wonders ofAustralia EASY TO ASSEMBLE refers to a man recording 60,000 dead STRONG Budgerigars at a single dam in 1931 dur­ ing heat wave conditions. STACKS EASILY • 100% Heavy-Duty gouge pre-finished wire. Pezoporus • Sel up as many as you need. The Ground Parrot is the only mem­ • Tokes only minutes 10 set up or dismanrle. ber of this genus. They are shy terres­ • (anverllla flight (age. trial birds and are largely nocturnal, being FULL LI E OF ACCESSORIES found in heath lands and swampy areas AVAILABLE ofthe eastern Australian coastline as well Send $1.50 for catalogue as coastal Tasmania. A subspecies Pw. jlaviventris is found in southern coastal 1<830 Double 1;: <<'der Supercage Manufacturers of Sill': 26-W" I. ,1'·1/8" Hx Io-In" D regions of West Australia. One pic.. sulid '""'Iruetion. Ideal for Fine Bird Food This species has only on rare occa­ Canaries. large Finches and small Hookbills Products: sions been represented in aviculture. NEW: RB35 Double Breeder upercage Same as RB30 but comes knocked down. There are no records of captive breed­ Very easy to store. clean or ship. NEDERLANDS VITA SEED The ing. Stan Sindel of Sydney recently RB20 Single Breeder Supercage original scientifically formulated bird tood - Often imitated but never received wildlife authority permission Sill' 18-1/4" Lx 12" Hx 10-114" D One piece soud construction. Excellent for duplicated - The choice 01 champions ­ to work with this species. To date he has display and breeding. Ideal for Budgies and Complete with vitamins, minerals & not been successful in encouraging Finches. amino acids - Premium seed diets ­ NEW: RB25 Single Breeder Supercage Excellent results - Birds eat 100% - No them to breed. Features: Same as RB20 but comes knocked RB50 Modular Supereage waste - Fruits, veggies, pellets & down. Very easy to store. clean or ship. Size 19-1/4" Lx 13" Hx 12-314': D biscuits inciuded Geopsittacus SAVE IT· Contains vitamins and antibiotics - Promotes breeding· Prevents nest mortality &stress - Excellent to treat The Night Parrot is one ofAustralia's infectious diseases - Two year shelf life (foil pack) - Box of 10 x 10 grams envelopes (other medications available) rarest birds. Historically this species COLOR CARE· (to get show reSUlts) - Beta-Ihin red 1yellow & Nacho's red 1yellow - Color enhancer with excellent results. ranged over a large area of inland OPEN LEG BANDS FOR ALL TYPES OF BIRDS· Solid &striped colors to choose from Australia. It must now exist only in SPRAY MILLET· Premium quality - Plump &golden color sprays small isolated pockets in parts of its for­ mer range. The demise of this species SUNSHINE BIRD SUPPLIES is probably largely due to the introduction A Division of The Higgins Group Corp. ofanimals such as the European Fox and 8535 NW 56th Street· Miami, FL 33166 feral cats. Ph: (305) 593-2666 • Fax: (305) 591-9567 In 1990 a scientist from the Australian afa WATCHBIRD 51