Eclectus Parrot

Provide a large cage of at least 90 x 60 x 120 cm for one bird, with more width preferred, as Eclectus like room to move and stretch their wings. Bar spacing of about 2 to 2.5 cm suits their size. Offer several natural-wood perches of varying diameter and plenty of open space, and keep the cage in a calm, sociable but not chaotic part of the home. Eclectus can be sensitive to overcrowded, cluttered cages, so keep flight space clear.

This species needs a naturally high-fibre, low-fat diet built around fresh vegetables, leafy greens and fruit, with only a modest amount of pellet or none at all if fresh food is well balanced. Eclectus have an unusually long digestive tract and absorb nutrients efficiently, which makes them uniquely prone to over-supplementation. Regularly feeding synthetic-vitamin fortified pellets or added supplements can trigger toe-tapping and wing-flipping muscle spasms, feather plucking and screaming. Get vitamin A from natural sources such as dark orange and leafy green vegetables rather than synthetic additives. Never offer avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onion or salty foods, all of which are toxic.

Keep them at a stable room temperature of around 18 to 28 C, out of draughts and direct hot sun. Provide natural or full-spectrum light and 10 to 12 hours of quiet, dark, undisturbed sleep each night. Never run non-stick (PTFE or Teflon) cookware, air fryers, self-cleaning ovens or scented candles anywhere near the bird, as the invisible fumes are lethal to birds within minutes. Give daily supervised out-of-cage time in a bird-proofed room with windows and mirrors covered.

Eclectus are affectionate and bond closely with their people, but they tend to be more laid-back and less physically demanding than cockatoos or macaws. They can be kept singly with plenty of daily interaction. They are moderate in volume, though males have a distinctive contact call and both sexes can learn to talk well. Hens in particular can become territorial and hormonal around a nest-like cavity, so avoid providing dark hiding boxes.

Offer foraging toys, shreddable palm and wood, and puzzle feeders that let them work for food, which suits their intelligent, methodical nature. Rotate toys to prevent boredom. Chewing keeps the beak healthy, and daily flight or climbing provides important exercise. Calm training sessions and a predictable routine help this sensitive species feel secure.