Hello, bird lover! Today, we’re going to dive into the fascinating world of the Bourke parakeet, a winged gem that, if you’re thinking of adopting, will captivate you with its beauty and gentle nature. Get ready to learn all about this species: its appearance, care, and, of course, how to choose the best cage to make your new feathered friend feel right at home.
What is the Bourke parakeet?
The Bourke parakeet (Neopsephotus bourkii), also known as the rose-breasted parakeet, is a small bird native to Australia. It inhabits the central and southern regions of the country, favouring savannas and areas with eucalyptus trees, where it finds shelter and food.
How is this bird?
The Bourke parakeet measures between 18 and 23 cm in length and weighs around 45 grams, with its plumage being a burst of colours.
The adult male Bourke parakeet has a dark pink crown and nape, with feathers edged in darker tones. Its back and wings are an earthy brownish shade, giving it a more sober appearance. The rump and the under-tail feathers are a darker colour, with delicate pale blue spots. A distinctive feature of the male is a light blue band, approximately 4 mm wide, that extends across its beak, making it unmistakable. In contrast, the female is slightly smaller than the male and has softer, duller colours. Her blue band is less pronounced and has a more whitish tone. Additionally, her skull is flatter compared to that of the male. As for colour mutations in the Bourke parakeet, there are various variations that affect the appearance of these birds.
Selective breeding has produced a variety of fascinating colour mutations in the Bourke parakeet, resulting in birds with unique visual characteristics. Among the most popular mutations are the Isabel mutation, the Fallow mutation, the Yellow mutation, and the Pink mutation, each with its own particularities.
The Isabel mutation is characterised by a dilution of melanins, resulting in a lighter and softer plumage. A distinctive feature of this mutation is the plum-red eyes, which are especially striking in females, giving them a captivating appearance.
On the other hand, the Fallow mutation features a 50% reduction in melanins, producing a paler plumage compared to other variants. The bright red eyes are an exotic touch of this mutation, providing an attractive contrast with the rest of the body.
The Yellow mutation is another impressive variation, characterised by a 75% dilution of melanins. This mutation transforms the pink lipochrome colour into a vibrant yellow tone, creating a bright and cheerful appearance.
Finally, the Pink mutation is distinguished by intense pink plumage covering the chest, abdomen, nape, and back. Light grey streaks on the cheeks and throat add delicacy to the overall look. In the male, a white line is also seen on the forehead, and black eyes further highlight its elegance.
Caring for an Bourke Parakeet
What is its diet like?
The diet of the Bourke parakeet should be balanced to ensure its health:
Seeds: A mix of two parts canary seed, two parts white millet, one part yellow millet, and a little hulled oats is ideal. Sunflower seeds can be offered two or three times a week as a treat. During cold weather, hemp seeds can occasionally be added for an extra energy boost.
Fruits and vegetables: Although some Bourke parakeets may be reluctant to try new foods, it is essential to offer them a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Some owners have had success offering broccoli, chopped carrots, cucumber, corn, and spinach. Patience and persistence are key to introducing these foods into their diet.
Water: Fresh, clean water should always be available.
The best cage for your Edwards Parakeet
The Bourke parakeet is an active bird that enjoys flying. Therefore, it is crucial to provide it with a spacious cage:
Cage size: For a single bird, a cage of at least 1 metre long, 0.5 metres wide, and 0.5 metres high is recommended. If you plan to have a pair or more, a cage measuring 2x1x2.5 metres is ideal.
Location: Place the cage in a draught-free area, protected from humidity, and with access to natural light, but avoiding direct sunlight all day. It is important that the bird has a shelter or shaded area where it can retreat whenever it wishes.
Accessories: Include perches of varying thicknesses, safe toys, and containers for food and water. A small bath is also recommended, as they enjoy grooming themselves.
Hygiene
Maintaining cleanliness is essential for your parakeet’s health:
Cage cleaning: Remove food remnants and droppings daily. Wash food and water containers daily, and perform a deep clean of the cage at least once a week.
Bathing: Provide a bath with clean water for the parakeet to bathe in. Some enjoy a gentle mist of warm water from a spray bottle.
What is it like as a pet?
The Bourke parakeet is known for its calm and peaceful temperament. It is a crepuscular bird, more active during dawn and dusk. It is not particularly noisy, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet pet. Additionally, it tends to live harmoniously with other bird species, provided it is given the appropriate space.