Rüppell's Parrots, Ruppel's or Rueppel's Parrots
Poicephalus Parrots
The Rueppell's Parrot (Poicephalus rueppellii) is endemic to Southwestern Africa, specifically central Namibia and southwest Angola to Luanda. It can be found in the savannah where there are trees or in dry woodland. This parrot is more common near to streams or rivers.
Breeding pairs average 3 to 4 eggs in a clutch and the expected incubation period is about 27 days.
The name commemorates the German naturalist and explorer Eduard Rüppell.
It is a protected species listed on CITES appendix 2 since 1981.
Description:
Rueppell's Parrot is about 8.5 - 8.8 inches (or ~ 22 cm) long. It has an overall dark brown colour and its head is dark greyish. Both adult male and female birds have some yellow feathers in their wings and yellow feathers covering their upper legs. Adult female birds have blue feathers on the lower back and the rump. Male birds loose blue feather colouration as they become mature.
Immatures as adults, but duller and without yellow to thighs and bend of wing; lower back in both male and female blue, but less extensive and fainter in males; iris brownish; bill grey.
The adult plumage is probably attained by 14 months.
Personality:
Alta (whose pet bird is featured above) describes her experience with this parrot as follows:
"They are one owner birdies ... my one is so jealous.. My daughter is not allowed to come close to me or she runs to go and nip her.. Although she loves to play with her when I am not around.
She is so loveable, I can kiss and cuddle her all over and she don’t mind at all ... and she is ticklish under her wings and laughs when you tickle her. She is pure joy!" Alta Durn
Care and Feeding:
These Parrots love to climb and play and need to be provided with a cage that allows them to move around freely and toys to entertain themselves with. Please refer to the following websites for information:
- Sources for Purchasing or Adopting your Companion or Aviary Birds
- Optimal nutrition to keep your bird healthy
- Housing your bird / Fun & Safe Toys
- Caring for your companion bird
Taxonomy:
Species: Scientific: Poicephalus rueppellii ... English: Rüppell's Parrot ... Dutch: Rüppells Papegaai ... German: Rüppells / Rueppells Blausteiß Papagei ... French: Perroquet de Rüppell
Related Websites: Lexicon of Parrots ... The Feather Tree (Breeder) ... Pictures Catalog
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