Red Sided Parrot General Info

Eclectus parrots are well known around the world for their unmistakable flashy looks and wonderful personality. They have several distinct subspecies, each with its own unique aspects. One of the most popular Eclectus breeds is the so-called Red Sided Parrot, also known as the New Guinea Eclectus. These fascinating parrots stand apart with a lot of peculiar traits, and a friendly, playful personality that quickly charms all potential owners. Let’s learn about the little details that set them apart from other Eclectus breeds.

Finding the difference between Eclectus breeds can be difficult, but knowing each unique detail can help a lot.

Native Region/Natural Habitat

These parrots inhabit a medium sized region that consists of many small islands in Indonesia and New Guinea. The main habitat consists of lowland forests, secondary growth, plantations, and mangrove fields. They are also thriving in Eucalyptus forests, in altitudes as high as 1900 meters. Their populations are mostly stable and rising, but deforestations on several smaller islands have caused significant losses for these parrots.

Overall Description

Finding the subtle differences between nominal Eclectuses and the Red Sided Parrot can require a trained eye and a bit of patience. On a first glance, they are close to identical with their cousins, but a few unique features can help you recognize them. The adults reach an average length of 14 inches (35 centimeters) and weigh about a pound (525 grams). Their size makes them visibly larger than most other Eclectuses and calls for a spacious cage and plenty of free room. All the iconic Eclectus features are present, the smooth plumage, round heads, and unique beaks, as well as their wide tail feathers.

Speech and Sounds

Most troubles for parrot owners come from the noise levels and loud natural calls that many species possess. One of the positive aspects for the Red Sided Parrot is the fact it’s not really noisy. They have natural calls that resemble screeches, but these are rarely heard. Most of the sounds are the mimics of alarms, animals and common words. An apartment setting might work for a Red Sided Parrot, but a large, family environment and a house could be the best choice after all.

Colors

One of the first things that will catch your eye when you first meet an Eclectus is their flashy, exotic plumage full of vibrant and unique colors and patterns. The males and females are completely different in color, so you’ll have no problems knowing who is who. The males are entirely bright green, with much less yellow tones than the nominate species. The head is darker green, with big red patches on the sides of the abdomen, beneath the wings. A unique feature of the is the yellow band on the tail. The females have bright red heads and chests, with darker red on the wings and back. The abdomen is dark purple. These one-of-a-kind colors never fail to impress you, no matter how long you have your pet.

The bright and colorful plumage of Red Sided Parrot is an impressive and inspiring sight.

Care and Feeding

Eclectus are one of the parrot species that feed primarily on fruits. Mangos, bananas, oranges, guavas, and figs are the favorites. That’s why, besides a good commercial seed mix, you should base your pet’s diet on fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also add some cooked foods like rice, potatoes or chicken – this is an important source of protein. The only thing to keep in mind is obesity and how to avoid it. Make sure your Red Sided Parrot has enough exercise and play time.

Health and Common Conditions

One of the sturdier and robust species, Eclectus parrots are praised for their endurance and good health. With enough good care and attention, a pet Red Sided Parrot will have little to no issues. While they might seem docile and too calm sometimes, they still need social interaction and you need to provide it. A neglected, lonely and bored parrot is prone to many issues – some of which can be very dangerous.

Eclectus parrots are known for their docile and overly calm behavior. Don’t get a wrong impression – they still want and need playing and social interaction.

Personality & Behavior

These lively parrots have a lot of good traits going for them, and they are mostly known as friendly and calm. They are often mistakenly called as “slow” or “dim-witted” due to the lack of reaction to any new and surprising things. But those who get to know a Red Sided Parrot will find a playful, entertaining personality and an affectionate pet parrot. This friendly personality makes them good pets for seniors who can look after them properly. But a Red Sided Parrot will thrive the most in a family setting, where love and attention are all around.

Photo credit:David Havel/Shutterstock; GR Photo/Shutterstock; Ondrej Prosicky/Shutterstock