The
Alexandrine Parrot or sometimes known as the “poor
mans macaw” is certainly a most attractive bird,
and one that is now getting out more and more into aviculture. These
days this large parrot is now very affordable to most bird keepers, a
little different from years ago when they were rather expensive, and
would only be kept by the “ones” that could afford
them. That was a shame for many, because before I could afford them
myself I would see them in photographs or other peoples aviaries and
just admire their beauty. The thing that impressed me about these birds
is their size, to me they are just the right size for a bird, which is
around 58 to 60 cms. The Alexandrine Parrot originates from Southern
India and Sri Lanka, but has found a home all over the world in
aviculture. In the wild these majestic birds breed from November till
April laying their clutch of 2 to 4 eggs in large trees such as palms
and malabarcias. They chew out the hollows to suit themselves, with
several pairs sometimes using the same tree. Although not recommended
in captivity, in the wild these birds therefore colonize without any
major problems. They have been also known to nest in wall cavities and
roofs of houses in local areas. Natural foods consist of seeds, nuts,
berries, flowers, fruit, and nectar. These birds are known to damage
grain, maize, and rice fields, as well as fruit plantations. In
Australian avicultural conditions they breed from early August through
to January, nesting in either natural logs or sturdy well made nest
boxes. If young are taken away from the parents for hand rearing
purposes the parent birds will sometimes double brood without any
problems. 2 to 4 eggs is a usual clutch, but more can be laid.
Incubation is around 25 to 28 days and if left with the parents the
young fledge at around 7weeks later. Young stay dependent on their
parents, with both parent birds feeding, for another 3weeks after that.
Young stay as the females until adult plumage starts at around 18months
and will not complete until adulthood is reached at 32 or so months of
age. Adult males will be blessed with the stunning nape or neck band,
common in Asiatic bird species, while females do not carry them.
Both sexes carry a lovely
maroon/purple wing or shoulder patch which maybe slightly larger in
male birds. These birds stay in great tight feather most of the year
until, like all Asiatics, molt which may last up to 6 to 8weeks. There
are mutations available inthis bird around the world, but they still
fetch a rather high price tag. Some of these mutations are Lutino,
Blue, Grey, Olive, and White.
