How to Care for Alexandrine Parrots

Alexandrine parrots are tropical birds.

Birds are the third most popular pet in the United States behind dogs and cats, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Alexandrine parrots with their colorful green plumage and bright beaks make entertaining pets when cared for properly. Also known as parakeets, these birds, which originate from Northern India, require a moderate amount of care and need exercise and play time with their owner. Learn the dietary and housing needs to keep an Alexandrine parrot happy and healthy.

Things You'll Need

• Large 12-gauge wire mesh cage
• Chew toys
• Apples and oranges
• Parrot seed
• Vegetables

Instructions

1. Choose a large cage. Alexandrine parrots work best either alone or in pairs with a cage 13 feet long and at least 4 feet wide. Use 12-gauge wire for the mesh surrounding the cage, as these parrots have strong beaks and enjoy chewing. Choose rust-resistant wire to prevent poisoning the birds.

2. Add perches and chew toys. Include leafy branches and stripped branches for them to stand on and chew. Rawhide, rope tugs and wooden blocks make great toys for Alexandrine parrots to play with and chew on. Have a supply of toys available and rotate toys often to stimulate your birds.

3. Feed your parrots. These birds enjoy seeds, fruit, vegetables and even dog food. Include white millet, oats and sunflower seeds within the seed mix. Many parrots enjoy apples, oranges, corn, green leafy vegetables and sprouting grasses. A calcium block should always be available for the bird to access. Some birds enjoy small insects such as mealworm larvae and beetles.

4. Play with your parrot. Alexandrine parrots have a high intelligence and can get bored easily if not adequately entertained. Train your bird to sit still on your shoulder and walk around the house with it. Handle your bird frequently and provide the maximum amount of socialization possible. Help eliminate screeching and loud noises by training your parrot to talk. A happy, well-cared-for parrot can live 35 to 40 years.

Tips & Warnings

• Some parrots may not have the ability to talk. Begin training a bird to talk when it is young, by repeating a couple of words daily. Birds will mumble first before speaking full words.

• Females can become more aggressive than male Alexandrine parrots by nipping and biting. Ignore unwanted behavior and reward good behavior with praise and petting.

References

• Avian Web: Alexandrine Parrots
• Indian Ringneck: Alexandrine Parakeets
• Bird Care: Alexandrine Parrot
• Bird Ownership Statistics in USA: Counting the Birds

Resources

• Alexandrine the Great