Ruppell’s Parrot - Rare in Captivity

The Ruppell’s Parrot is rarely seen in captivity. The Ruppell’s Parrot is said to be an attractive bird, but has been exported from its native southwest Africa only sporadically. It has never been exported in large numbers.

Description

The Ruppell’s Parrot is approximately 9 inches in length and weighs approximately 4 ounces at maturity. Unlike many parrots, Ruppell’s Parrots are sexually dimorphic, making it easy to tell which is male and which is female. The female is the more brightly colored of the two.

The male Ruppell’s Parrot is predominantly dusky brown with silvery highlights on the crown and ear coverts. Rump and tail covers are the same dusky brown with blue highlighting. There may be a subtle green sheen on the back. The male Ruppell’s Parrot shows yellow on its shoulders, wing edges, and under wing coverts. His thighs are orange and yellow.

The female Ruppell’s Parrot is similar to the description above, except that she has bright blue on her lower back, rump, and upper tail coverts. Her lower abdomen and vent are a dull shade of blue.

Both male and female Ruppell’s Parrots have grey-black beaks. The eye is bright red or orange-red.

Potential Pets

Ruppell’s Parrots are not known well enough to comment on their pet qualities, since they are still so rare in captivity. Studies indicate that there may be as few as 9,000 birds in their native habitat. It is illegal to export these, and you are encouraged to avoid buying a Ruppell’s Parrot that has not been bred in captivity.

Talking Parrots

Ruppell’s Parrots seem content to be quiet. They will whistle softly, and have been known to learn a few words. However, they are not known as good talking parrots. If you live in an apartment and want a parrot, but need a quiet bird, the small Ruppell’s Parrot might fit your needs.

Miscellaneous Information

Ruppell’s Parrots inhabit dry woodlands. They typically live in pairs or small groups of fewer than 20 birds. The Ruppell’s Parrots’ diet consists of acacia buds, acacia pods, berries, and seeds.

The Ruppell’s Parrot is classified as “near endemic” and is found in 3 or fewer African countries.