|
The Black-Headed Caique, comes from North of the Amazon and
parts of Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru. Caiques are colourful
parrots having a deep, rich forest green color on their backs,
wings and tail. The top and upper back of the head is jet
black, much like a defective toupee; the nape and neck is
a bright yellow/orange, and the beak is black. There is a
trace of dark green around the eyes, and the entire front
of the belly and breast area is a soft downy white. The underside
of the tail is burnt orange and the feet resemble Mukluks,
or furry winter boots if you may. Caiques measure approximately
nine inches in length. Their sex needs to be determined surgically
or through DNA testing.
Caiques are not large birds but their body is compact and
stocky. They have a protruding chest and short, square-shaped
tail. Their average weight is approximately 150 to 175 grams.
Their average lifespan is 25 to 40 years. They are not considered
good flyers due to their short wing span. In the wild, small
flocks typically group together in treetops, to chatter amongst
themselves.
As with birds, personalities differ, with each individual bird displaying unique
characteristics. Some will want to be held and cuddled more than others, and some are
content to play on their own. Play, one of the characteristics that make Caiques so
adorable. They are described as rambunctious, energetic, clownish, and very sociable
parrots. Their daily activities consist of climbing, swinging; tumbling; wrestling;
rolling; hanging; jumping; and what their best known for…hopping. Yes hopping just like
a rabbit.
Caiques have an abundance of energy, constantly busy and always looking for something to
do. Of course you cannot always give your feathered friend attention, therefore is
important to provide plenty of toys. Caiques are especially fond of toys that make
noise, or can assist them in their travels; such as bells, balls, ropes or hoops. They
prefer things that move, putting swings high on the list of favourites. They need toys
that can withstand constant use such as acrylic or hard wood. Parrots have a natural
need to chew, therefore you will need some "destructible" wooden toys as well to satisfy
their chewing instincts and keep their beaks in shape.
Caiques are not known for their talking abilities. They can be trained to speak,
however you will need to listen closely to understand what they are saying. They have
tiny, high-pitched voices and learn quickly to whistle musical tunes. They are
intelligent parrots and teaching tricks and potty-training is usually a simple task.
Family members will benefit as Caiques do not often demonstrate the tendency of becoming
"one-owner" birds.
|
TOP