Quaker Parrots - The Bird with Many Names
Quaker parrots are referred to by a variety of names. They are commonly known as Quaker parakeets, monk parrots, and monk parakeets. These birds originated from areas of South America including some parts of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Wild or 'feral' populations are found in huge numbers in Illinois, New York, and Florida.
Quaker parrots aren't large birds, measuring on average 11 inches long and weighing about 100 grams (about the size of a cockatiel). The normal life span of these parrots is about 20 to 30 years, making them good pets for those who want a lengthy bond with their bird.
Quaker parrots have bright green heads, bodies, and tails with a blue tail tip and flight feathers. The forehead, cheeks and chests are grey in color. The bill of these birds is golden brown and their legs and feet are grey. When Quakers are young their eyes are grey but as they get older the eyes change to dark brown.
Quaker parrots mate for life and it is this behavior that makes their bonds with a single human so important. Like African grey and Amazon Parrots
, Quaker parrots are both very vocal and quite intelligent. There are seldom reports of a depressed Quaker but there are many reports of very loud ones!
If bird chirping and vocalization is a problem for you, then Quaker parrots may not be a good choice for you. Quakers are very friendly and talkative, keeping you entertained for hours and making great feathered companions.
Quaker parrots are illegal in some states particularly those where wheat and fruit are grown. The reason for this is that Quakers are hardy and reproduce fast thus posing a potential threat to agriculture and other parrot species. So before you go out and buy a Quaker please make sure you that the laws in your state permit you to keep one!
