AUSTRALIAN BIRDKEEPER

THE BEST WORDS ON BIRDS, PET & AVIARY PARROTS, FINCHES, SOFTBILLS & MORE

VOL 34 ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

ROSEIFRONS
Conures

Golden-shouldered
Parrot

GOLDEN WHISTLER

EUROPEAN
GOLDFINCH

Kakarikis
Over-cuddling
YOUR PET

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contents

JUNE-JULY 2021 VOLUME 34 ISSUE 9

FEATURES THE BEST WORDS ON BIRDS, PET & AVIARY PARROTS, FINCHES, SOFTBILLS & MORE
VOL 34 ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

485 506 ROSEIFRONS
Conures
ROSEIFRONS CONURE TIPS FOR TRANSPORTING BIRDS
By Jason Wright By Nathaniel Coen Golden-shouldered
This small, striking Pyrrhura Conure is one of the rarest in Nathaniel covers a checklist of what to be mindful Parrot
the genus in Australian aviculture. of when transporting birds—in what can be a
stressful scenario. GOLDEN WHISTLER
488
510 EUROPEAN
ARTHA—A LIFE WELL-LIVED GOLDFINCH
By Dot Schwarz WE MUST NOT LOSE THE
Dot tells the at-times heart-breaking story of her journey GOLDEN-SHOULDERED PARROT Kakarikis
with Artha, the pet African Grey, and how aviculture By Peter Odekerken Over-cuddling
became such a natural part of her life. Peter explains the threat to these spectacular birds both YOUR PET
in the wild and in captivity, calling for action to ensure
496 they survive. ON THE COVER

NEW ZEALAND’S JEWELS—THE KAKARIKI 514 RED-FRONTED
By Jade Welch KAKARIKI
Jade examines the Red-fronted and Yellow-crowned THE GOLDEN WHISTLER
Kakariki in the wild, in aviculture and as pets, and warns By Adam FitzGerald PHOTO PETER ODEKERKEN
we are in danger of losing wildtype Normal birds. Adam did not have an easy introduction to keeping this
melodic and captivating species.
500

‘YELLOW-CLOWNED’ KAKARIKIS
By Adam FitzGerald
Adam follows up on his article 20-plus years ago with his
recent experiences with this species which have ‘fallen by
the avicultural wayside’.

REGULARS

492 517 526 529
ABOUT BIRDS THE WISE OWL
FINCH CHARM WILD CORNER
The European Goldfinch— The Lovable Willie Wagtail Managing Pastures for Ross, the Shearwater
Trials and Tribulations By Dr Claude Lacasse
By David Pace By Kit Prendergast Grassland Birds 536
534
503 520 By Dr Milton Lewis CLASSIFIEDS
BIRD TALK
BREEDER PET PARROT 528 • Paul Mander— • For Sale
PERSPECTIVE • Bird Sales
Hispaniola Amazons BEHAVIOUR CONSERVATION: Magpie Whisperer • Avicultural Organisations
By Andrew Rankmore By Melissa Maykin • Avian Veterinarians
Over-cuddling Your Parrot • WPT: Protecting Africa’s • Promoting Aviculture at
508 the Royal Easter Show NEXT
By Hillary Hankey Smallest Lovebird By Paul Henry ISSUE
MUTATION • UBSSA Seminar 2021
MUTTERINGS 522 By Carolyn Pradun By Brian Reichelt Released
The Pied Scarlet-chested • WPT: The New Zealand 11 August 2021
Parrot
By Paul Court & Parrot Trust BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 483
Ray Chapman
HOOKBILL HOBBYIST By Luis Ortiz-

Lessons from Our Parrots Catedral

By EB Cravens • LPF: Yellow-headed

524 Parrots Choose Tall Trees
and Nest Boxes
By Dr David Waugh

AVIAN HEALTH

WITH DR BOB

Household Hazards for

Pet Birds

By Dr Bob Doneley

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

welcome IN 1997 ONE OF ABK’S MOST POPULAR Softbill keepers will be fascinated by breeding
books ever, A Guide to Neophema and Psephotus experiences with the attractive Golden Whistler as told
FROM EDITOR & PUBLISHER SHERYLL STEELE-BOYCE Grass Parrots by Toby Martin, was published. It was by Adam FitzGerald on page 514. Adam is a long-term

the first book we produced on this group of Australian dedicated breeder of finches, softbills and small parrots.

small parrots, with the original edition selling out and the The Golden-shouldered Parrot is one of the Australian

revised edition still a great seller worldwide. Sadly, Toby species under threat in aviculture and in the wild, as

has passed away at age 93 years old on 17 May 2021. related in the last issue (vol. 34 no. 8). A reader requested

Sincere condolences to wife Jacki, son Christian and family. information on captive breeding and Peter Odekerken

Rest in Peace. has provided excellent detail on their wild habits and the

Toby’s passion for ‘grassies’ fueled many aviculturists in adaptations required to successfully breed this parrot in

their Neophema mutation breeding pursuits. Toby and captivity on page 510. ABK also has books on the Psephotus

his wife Jacki travelled internationally to avicultural events genus, particularly Australian Parakeets—the Psephotus by

in that era and the Neophema genus has continued to the late Stan Sindel. See advertisement on page 537.

fascinate genetic enthusiasts globally. European Goldfinch breeders may relate to the ebbs

Currently, we are seeing the development of the Pied and flows of breeding this species as David Pace recounts

Scarlet-chested Parrot, as Paul Court and Ray Chapman relate on page 488. Persistence and observation eventually had

on page 508. For those interested in learning more on these its rewards.

species, ABK also published the English version of A Guide What a delightful parrot the Hispaniola Amazon

to Neophema and Neopsephotus Genera and their Mutations seems to be. Andrew Rankmore writes on another rare

by Alain Campagne—available in both hard and soft cover avicultural subject on page 503.

at www.birdkeeper.com.au, or call us on 07 5568 0011. In her regular column About Birds, Kit Prendergast often

It is great to see bird sales up and happening again— highlights and reminds us to appreciate the beauty of birds

apparently well-patronised and with good sell-through within our community—some of which we may take for

rates, particularly in finches and less expensive species. granted. If you stop for a moment to listen to the song

More expensive species are being bred around the of your garden birds, there is likely a melody sung by the

country. See Classifieds on page 536. Willy Wagtail. Her column appears on page 517.

The United Bird Societies of Australia Inc are holding Pet bird-lover? How can you over-cuddle any pet animal?

their annual conference event on Sunday, 25 July—see Well, while some may not want to hear it, the habit can

program and speaker details on page 535. have ramifications for the human-bird relationship if not

A press release from the Canary & Cage Bird Society understood and controlled, as our bird/animal behaviourist

Inc regarding the proposed NSW Bird Sale and Auctions Hillary Hankey explains on page 520.

Code of Practice Standards and Guidelines (second draft) EB Cravens turns the tables in his column this month,

for 2022 is available for download under the documents looking at not what we can teach our parrots, but what

tab at www.ccbfa.org.au. they can teach us, on page 522.

Sheryll Mutation breeding is not having a good effect on Indoor birds can fall victim to all manner of innocent

some captive species, such as kakarikis, as cautioned by accidents, resulting in trauma or death. On page 524

two breeders—see articles by Jade Welch and Adam Dr Bob warns of some of these experiences he has

FitzGerald pages 496 to 500. Adam kept Yellow-crowned encountered as a vet, and how to potentially avoid them.

Kakarikis some 20 years ago and is today concerned by The sad story of the passing of pet African Grey Artha

the lack of pure wildtypes in not just this form but also clutched my heart—keeper Dot Schwarz relates her grief

the Red-fronted Kakariki. Hybridisation between the on page 488. Artha has been on our pages in numerous past

species contributes to this concern. Jade concurs, writing issues as Dot related her ongoing experiences and growing

‘We seriously risk losing both species as pure Normal birds if knowledge in developing desired behaviours in pet birds.

we are not careful’. I hope you are all preparing diligently for the future

In the wild, New Zealand kakarikis, the Norfolk Island breeding season—the proof is in the puddin’ (progeny).

Tasman Parakeet, Kea and Kakapo need conservation Enjoy!

action. With support, efforts are making headway, as

documented by Dr Luis Ortiz-Catedral from the NZ

Parrot Trust on page 530.

EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Peter Dr Bob Dr Terry
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Odekerken Doneley Martin

SUB- ART

EDITOR DIRECTOR

Dr Milton EB Jade Hillary Kit Andrew Dr Claude David Paul Ray Alison Melinda
Welch Hankey Prendergast Rankmore Lacasse Pace Court Chapman Houston Leu
Lewis Cravens

THE TEAM ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Sheryll Steele-Boyce PUBLISHED BY ABK Publications advertising it deems to be detrimental
WRITERS Jason Wright, Dot Schwarz, David Pace, Jade Welch, Postal Address: PO Box 1252 to the integrity of the publication,
Adam FitzGerald, Andrew Rankmore, Nathaniel Coen, Paul Court, Bongaree QLD 4507 Australia Australian Birdkeeper Magazine
Ray Chapman, Peter Odekerken, Kit Prendergast, Hillary Hankey, International Standard Serial Number COPYRIGHT It is an offence under the
EB Cravens, Dr Bob Doneley, Dr Milton Lewis, Carolyn Pradun, ISSN 1030-8954 Commonwealth Copyright Act 1968 to
Dr Luis Ortiz-Catedral, Dr David Waugh, Dr Claude Lacasse, DISCLAIMER While every care is taken, reproduce any part of the contents of this
Paul Henry, Melissa Maykin and Brian Reichelt. the publisher accepts no responsibility publication, including advertising artwork
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS ARE MOST WELCOME. for the content of advertising or editorial and photography without prior written
SUBSCRIPTION, ORDER & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES material published. Articles represent the consent of the publisher.
Telephone: 07 5568 0011 Email: [email protected] views of the authors and not necessarily ©2021 ABK Publications.
www.birdkeeper.com.au those of the publisher. ABK Publications All rights reserved.
also reserves the right to refuse any

484 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Roseifrons Conure

PHOTO JADE WELCH

Roseifrons Conure female—
12 months old

ConureRoseifrons AUTHOR & PHOTOS

JASON WRIGHT

T HE PYRRHURA ROSEIFRONS CONURE much effort has been put into these delightful
is arguably the most striking of all the small little birds generally—albeit there are a few
conures in this genus. dedicated breeders, some of whom have put
Akin in size to a Black-capped Conure, these in more than the 10 years of passion I've spent
birds are full of zest and have somewhat of a little with Roseifrons.
bird attitude—never ones to take a backward step,
and often at the front of the aviary checking out DESCRIPTION
any action. Roseifrons measure about 22cm top to tail and weigh
55–70g. The accompanying images tell the story, but
One of the rarest conures in Australia, in brief, they are a rainbow of colour and activity,
P. roseifrons were only ever imported in very including mainly green plumage with a red belly,
small numbers, with many of the larger Amazons, rump and tail tip. Much like other Pyrhurra conures,
caiques and African parrot species favoured at they are always on the move—jumping, hopping,
the time. Coupled with their limited availability flying around, always on the look-out for dangers,
overseas and the preference for Green-cheeked food or fun (or a finger to nip).
Conures and their mutations, this has meant not as

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 485

Roseifrons Conures HOUSING DIET

486 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU We house our Roseifrons Conures in suspended We try to feed as varied a diet as possible and tend

aviaries measuring 2.1m long x 75cm wide x 90cm to err on the side of feeding more vegetables and

high. We find that they settle well in the suspended smaller amounts of sweet sugary fruit. Our theory

aviary environment. The real bonus is if you can is that parrots would not have the opportunity to

feed them from swivel feeders, as even parent-raised consume perfectly ripe fruit in the wild. These are

Roseifrons can be a little territorial of their space in mixed with a soaked/sprouted seed mix and fed each

breeding season, and this prevents any unnecessary morning. The aviaries also always have a small bowl

nips from animated males. of Vetafarm™ Nutriblend small pellets on offer, and

We provide a nest box all year round which is made a small amount of small parrot mix seed provided

from 19mm marine ply and has external dimensions each afternoon. We also provide one-eighth of an

of 22cm x 22cm x 35–40cm high, in a standard orange, pomegranate, green apple/pear or corn daily,

vertical nest box design. Having said this, we have adjusted due to seasonal availability.

also used a fancy reverse ‘L’ with success. If the In breeding season, quantities of fruit/veg and

internal dimensions are snug, they tend to happily soaked/sprouted seed mix are increased dramatically,

accept any nest box. I also have a friend who has as is the quantity of fresh corn provided and gleefully

provided his Rosies with a natural log to roost in. consumed. We also add Calcivet™ over their soft food

We also provide plenty of enrichment branches a couple of times a week in the lead-up to breeding

(Callistemon, gum tree, Cotoneaster, etc) in flower, season but find the birds do regulate their own

or fruiting, fresh perches (gum or she-oak branches). intake of calcium by chewing on the cuttlefish and

They also enjoy cuttlefish and the mineral blocks mineral blocks provided.

we provide, and bathing and showering is a joyous

activity at any time of year. A healthy varied diet is
Nest boxes are hung undercover at the rear of the fed every morning

aviary, allowing easy nest inspections. They are also

not visible to the adjoining aviaries. We use Euci™

mulch as the major component of the nest material.

We have found it retains an ideal level of moisture

and we often mix in some locally gathered fresh gum

tree bark that I break into 2cm pieces for the birds to

chew down further.

We installed a rear access door and swivel feeders.

This, along with automated watering bowls, means

the birds feel very secure in their territory and rarely

contend with us entering their aviary.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Newly hatched Roseifrons The timeframe between first
Conure chicks and last chicks hatching can
mean quite a difference in size

BREEDING We have taken great

We have found that the Roseifrons can be territorial delight in handraising a

in the lead-up to breeding season, and it is not couple of birds over the

unusual for a second or third pair to be preening, years. They are a tiny 3–4

mating or showboating in effective competition to the grams at hatching, but

other pairs in close proximity. feed and grow so quickly,

We inadvertently delayed our breeding one year and fledge at about 7

due to having three pairs in side-by-side aviaries. weeks old. Despite these

Once I moved the middle pair, we managed to have growth rates, we have Roseifrons Conure chicks a
three pairs of eggs in relatively quick succession. found pairs happily raise few weeks prior to fledging
Lesson reinforced—no matter what birds you keep, their young even where there is a large timeframe

observing them is the best way to learn what between the first and last chick. As previously

they may or may not need and allows you to make mentioned, we do feed large quantities of corn and

informed judgements (rather than guessing why a a second helping of the veg/fruit and soaked/

pair is not breeding). Our three pairs had been too sprouted seed mix in the afternoons when parents

busy showing off and protecting their territory to are raising young.

breed. We now house our pairs in alternate aviaries,

separated by Peach-fronted Conures and Meyer’s CONCLUSION

Parrots, and everyone is happily breeding. These paragraphs on housing, feeding and

All too often you hear the story that a pair of birds breeding Roseifrons Conures cannot do the trials,

bred as soon as they shifted to a new environment. tribulations, heartache and joy of the past 10 years

Maybe the original owner simply wasn’t observing justice. However, they do reinforce that as with most

the signs their birds were trying to give them, rather rarer species of parrots, obtaining young, known

than the change of venue making the difference. stock from the beginning is always more beneficial

Clutch size is 5–7 eggs, often laid two days apart, but (although not always possible). Also, having

don’t be surprised if occasionally some take three days. sufficient space for said ‘trials and tribulations’ and

Once a pair did lay four eggs, but these were infertile, not being afraid to ask other aviculturists about

which we attributed to the maturity of the male (3 their experiences is invaluable. (I’m always more

years) and immaturity of the 15-month-old female. than happy to discuss my birds and experiences.) Beautiful handraised
In recent years we have experienced good fertility Finally, plenty of Roseifrons Conure
persistence is juvenile—head feathers
in our breeding pairs. However, in the early years required with many start to develop colour from
working with older birds with unknown histories, of these rarer around four months of age
while we often managed to get eggs, fertility and

hatching were always a struggle. Now we have parrots to work

diversified our blood lines and are using birds with out how or what

known age and histories as our breeding stock, we makes them tick

are having much better fertility/hatch rates. … and a little luck

We have also found Roseifrons Conures are more from time to time

likely to successfully breed from two years of age. helps too.

The females tend to sit tight after the second egg is I still get as much

laid. Often, we are unaware of the number of eggs in enjoyment from each

a clutch until a chance nest inspection is achieved. breeding attempt or

(We tend not to force inspections as females often pending hatchling as I

leave the box at a rapid rate of knots and we’d rather did from the first egg my

they didn’t damage eggs due to our eagerness.) Roseifrons Conures laid.

Alternatively, females come off the nest to feed more It also makes me smile

readily once the young start hatching. that I’ve done my little bit

Depending on rainfall and seasonal events, the to help others

breeding season can span from July to as late as (and future

February. We have allowed our birds to parent-raise generations)

the majority of young and they have proven to be have the

great parents. We feel this will be beneficial to opportunity to keep

future generations. these wonderful conures.

487VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

Barrett and Tim explained everything they did.

When the chicks pecked, Tim would gently blow the

top of their heads and say, ‘Don’t bite’. This technique

worked with our bird once we got it home. The

chicks were also taught to ‘step up’ before they were

even fledged. They were accustomed to household

noises like Hoovers and washing machines. On the

last visit but one before we bought our bird home,

Tim emerged from the nursery with the two Greys

and the Moluccan perched on his stretched-out arm—

all four looking pleased as Punch.

We took the 13-week-old weaned chick home in the

cat carrier. Tim and Barrett said, ‘Don’t worry, ring

us anytime.’

Did they regret that later? I must have rung at least

Artha 10 times in the first fortnight.

GETTING TO KNOW YOU
Our cat was called Merlin, so the baby African Grey
was named Arthur, later to become Artha. At 13
weeks, the parrot’s eyes are dark and later become
clear. Lots of emotion and thought is expressed by

a Life Well-lived the dilation of their pupils from covering almost the
whole eyeball into a thin slit. This is pinning. One
of many strange facts is that parrots that talk pin

their eyes, but not all birds that pin their eyes talk.

HOW DID I COME TO ACQUIRE AN The bird pins for a variety of reasons—excitement,
African Grey? It goes back to 1980 when interest, fear or aggression. You learn your own
I was over 40 and pregnant with my last birds’ expressions. Arthur’s pinning was always for
positive reasons.

child, Zac. My teenage son Ben said, ‘Okay Mum, I’ll One of my books suggested females squatted lower

look after him when you get too old’. Fast forward 20 on the perch. ‘Arthur’ did that. So, I had a DNA test

years and the baby Zac has grown up. The question done. When the result came back female, we called

arises of buying a parrot, and Zac says, ‘Okay Mum, her Artha and stressed the last syllable.
A U T H O R & P H O T O S I’ll look after it when you get too old’.
Our other pets were two German Shepherds, two

DOT SCHWARZ So, despite misgivings that 63 was too old to cats and an elderly retired horse. Artha and the

acquire a long-lived pet like a parrot, I bought one. horse, Shah, took no notice of one another when

introduced. I used to go out hacking with Artha in

THE LEARNING BEGINS her harness sitting on the pommel in front of me.

I’d known breeders Barrett Watson and Tim Davies How different individuals can be! When Casper

for a few years as professional horsemen who bred arrived 18 months later and was taken to see the

parrots for a hobby—or the other way around. (I was horses, he threw a fit, growled, hissed and appeared

never quite sure.) Their yard was a visual delight of completely terrified. How to explain that difference

immaculate horses and flocks of macaws, cockatoos, I am unsure, but Casper never got used to horses.

and Grey Parrots in large flights, with individual The cats, once they realised they could not catch this

cages for breeding pairs. bird, were disgusted. Of the two German Shepherds,

Barrett advised us on an African Grey suitable for the female made a half-hearted lunge, while the

an elderly couple. He had a bonded pair. In early male was so scared of this tiny flying monster that

December 1999, he phoned and told me ‘the hen is he avoided the sitting room for six weeks. All six

sitting’. Two weeks after hatching, the chicks were animals learned to live in harmony—except that the

pulled for handrearing and Barrett suggested I visit parrot took to bathing in the dogs’ water bowl!

as often as possible to learn how to handle the birds. Dogs are predators, birds are prey, so some people

Very few breeders encourage such an invaluable say they should never be allowed together. My

practice for novices. You learn more from hands-on husband Wal and I had kept horses, dogs and cats

practice than from books. For someone like me with together for decades. My belief is that pets learn

little knowledge, the chicks looked unappealing, when a prey animal is part of the family. As a mother

featherless and squirming, like blackbirds that had whose children had flown the nest, I was aware that

fallen out of the nest. ‘Aren’t they adorable?’ said Artha had become a baby substitute but, unlike a

Tim and proceeded to handfeed them with skill and human baby, I could return her to her cage.

gentleness. He and Barrett had been doing this at In the early weeks, she slept a lot, with one leg

four-hourly intervals day and night…and still found pulled up into her chest, head buried in nape of neck.

them adorable! Gradually she needed less naps. After a few months

Dot with Artha On my fortnightly visits, I started to hold the she only napped after lunch. Her bedtime was 10pm

Grey chick and spend half an hour or so watching and unlike a real baby, she never woke up during the

activities in the nursery. A clutch of Military Macaws night. Nor did I mind the tuneful dawn chorus she

was learning to fly, waddling along the floor as soon copied from a BBC tape ‘Birdsongs of the World’. She

as they landed, doing Charlie Chaplin imitations. never started before 6am. Her blackbird and thrush

With some nervous starts, I learnt to handle calls were hard to distinguish from the real thing.

Barrett’s two enormous pet Blue and Gold Macaws. I looked to advice from books, magazines and the

I learnt the difference between birds being reared as internet, which was only just starting to take over

pets (they were handled more) and ones for breeding. information channels. I found experts did not always

488 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

agree with one another. Most American experts background you could hear clearly, ‘Hello, hello,

insisted on wing-clips, both for safety and to keep the hello,’ in Wal’s voice. ‘It’s our parrot,’ I told the

bird well-behaved. Luckily for Artha and us, Barrett caller, who just hung up.

only clipped a bird’s wings if the client requested Did Artha understand the meaning of everything

this. He advocated keeping the bird flighted. I loved she said? I used to tell her phrases and she’d repeat

the whoosh of her wings as she swept across the them, such as, ‘I’m an important bird, are you?’ and African Grey Parrot pet
Artha always did what her
living room and all the newspapers flew off the table. ‘What’s the meaning of life? I won’t tell you?’ This last keeper was doing—here
she helps with writing
And I accepted expert Rosemary Low’s advice that she transposed into ‘What’s the meaning of parrot? I
Artha loved to preen
‘if you cannot handle a flying pet, get a hamster’. won’t tell you’. Parrots do transpose or make up words.
Artha spoke well in Walter’s
As the new century has advanced, the cruel habit of One of Artha’s funniest transpositions was instead deep voice, however, on this
occasion it was Casper asking
depriving birds of fight has lessened but, sadly, it is of ‘Georgie Porgie Puddin and Pie kissed the girls Artha 'what did you say?'

still carried out. and made them cry’, she said, ‘Artha Partha Pudden

Pie kissed boys made cry.’ A tame parrot learns what

OUT & ABOUT human laughter means and Artha would repeat

Greys are alleged to be timid. Artha arrived home phrases that earned her the sound of our laughter.

tame and remained so. When a visitor arrived, Artha At a year old she used over 70 words and a dozen

stepped up immediately on being asked. She had noises. The worst was my grandson’s squeaky toy.

strong preferences. If she liked the person, she’d I kept a list and added to it when Artha used a new

stay; if not, she’d fly off the hand and go to one of word. I put an asterisk against the words I believed

her perches. she understood or used in the correct context, like

I kept introducing her to strangers in and out hello, goodbye, good night and people’s names.

of doors, and she appeared to understand about I reckoned 40% of her words were used in the

children. I took her to a kindergarten where she correct context.

passed from one child to another—10 in all. Artha had With some research published since Artha came to

never met a child and the children knew no parrots, us, it’s now been established that wild parrots use

and I had devised a ‘grand finale’. They ‘oohed’ and names for their chicks in the nest.

‘aahed’ as Artha made a swooping flight around the

room before being put back in her cage. BAD HABITS?

I’d asked Barrett to put a harness on her while We followed Barrett's advice not to allow Artha on

he was handfeeding. This was before Aviator™ the shoulder until we had established who was

harnesses came on the market. The harness closed ‘top bird in the flock’. She went through a stage

with bulldog clips. It was heavy. Artha didn’t like it of dive-bombing my grown-up daughters on their

and she worked out how to undo the clips. visits, both of whom considered her ‘a spoilt brat’,

I took her with me to Fenwicks. While I was sorting but she never developed biting. This is rare in the

through a pile of t-shirts, she undid the bulldog clips, parrot fraternity where being bitten is very much

shrugged her head out of the harness and flew into considered part of owning a parrot. And, of course,

the lingerie department, landing on a rack of bras. some of them not handled right from the start

Luckily, I retrieved her fast before she’d pooped on become confirmed biters. Not Artha—never.

any of the merchandise. I worried that Artha might pluck her feathers,

Going around with a young parrot on your but she showed no tendency to do this, perhaps

shoulder is rather like carrying a baby—people because she had the same good diet she was weaned

smile at you, which is heart-warming. When I went on; also, most of her waking day she was with me.

somewhere the bird wasn’t welcome, I popped her She had her own perches on chair backs in several

into a sports bag into which I’d pricked airholes. friends’ houses and knew she should stay there with

When taking a parrot around with you, expect to be newspaper underneath.

made fun of. My car broke down in Tesco’s carpark Having owned dogs and

and the AA man came to fix a blocked fuel gauge—he cats all our lives, the way

wouldn’t stop laughing. ‘I can’t take a client seriously Artha’s mind worked was

who keeps a parrot in a sports bag,’ he said. endlessly fascinating.

Our house became parrot-friendly rather than She behaved like a cross

parrot-proof. I kept Artha’s cage in the sitting room between a dinosaur, an

with the door open when I was home. In my study Olympic athlete, and a

she had a play stand, and a rope stretched across the feathered toddler with

ceiling. It was made from an old skipping rope which a tin-opener in front of

still had some bounce left in it. its face.

You soon learn that

SPEAKING UP parrots are not tidy

As the books said she might, at about six months eaters—you need an

of age, Artha began to speak English—but she only enormous number of

spoke in Wal’s voice. It was peculiar, that little grey Wet Wipes.

bird saying, ‘Wow what a pretty parrot,’ in a man’s Once a week, I visited

deep voice. Although I enquired of every source I Diana, a friend in the

could find, I never found out why Artha spoke in village. Very house-

Wal’s voice and not mine. proud was Diana, so no parrot was allowed into

Some of her vocabulary was used with apparent the sitting room. We’d have drinks together in the

meaning. She said, ‘Hi, darling, how are you this conservatory—Artha behind me on her special chair,

morning?’ when she first saw us in the morning. with newspapers spread beneath. Diana and I were

We’d go out on walks and Artha cried, ‘Call the dogs,’ fond of a tipple—whisky, ice cubes and water was our

when they were out of sight, and gave Wal’s whistle. favourite. I took sips and put the glass behind me

On occasion when I answered the phone. The while we were having a heated conversation about

caller asked for Wal. ‘He’s out,’ I replied. In the God. After a while, Artha flew out from behind me.

489VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

She flew lopsided, wobbled and dropped onto the you’d have had to call teenage sex play. Engrossed

floor, staggering around in circles. Artha had been in my magazine, I suddenly felt something bump

taking sips of my drink as well—at six months old, against my toes—a drowning grey parrot. Dried off,

she was blind drunk! A drunken young parrot acts he recovered completely, but hasn’t repeated the

just like a drunken human. She seemed very happy. I experience, and that was three years ago.

rushed home with her but fortunately there were no

after-effects. TRAINING, AVIARY LIFE & MACAWS

Artha would take apart any gadget she could get Having acquired two young Greys who came fully

claws into and beak onto. She would trash computer socialised with no unwanted behaviour, they weren’t

keyboards, telephone handsets, cigarette lighters. hard to train. I had learned the principles of positive

She showed neither interest nor talent in putting and negative reinforcement and practised them

things together again. If you took your eyes off her, assiduously. They worked. Both birds were easy

she might punch a hole in each one of 12 eggs and to handle, crate, take out with me or to visit the

throw three on the floor. Before she was a year old vet. Casper did not achieve Artha’s record of never

she learned how to open the butter dish, prise lids off nipping anyone, but he never bit me!

tins and drink from a dripping tap. Wal and I were My small aviary expanded as I acquired more birds,

not tidy people. ‘Why can’t you keep that dratted bird mostly rescues and rehomes. The Greys enjoyed

in its cage?’ family members would complain. I’ve strutting around the aviary showing off to the other

never liked birds in cages, so I simply ignored them. birds. They reminded me of tourists in a developing

Like a toddler, Artha wanted to do whatever I was country. They were brought in at night.

doing. Compromises were not that difficult. If I was When Benni macaw arrived in September 2014,

sewing, she had a ball of wool; if I was writing, she he grew up with the Greys. All three lived uncaged

took apart old biros. She could be kept occupied for in the conservatory. The interactions between them

10 minutes with any closed container. were always equable and friendly, which makes the

Artha perched on the book case In those early days of Artha growing up, our life end of this story harder to understand.
in front of an Eric Peake painting was a happy adventure. Mina the Military Macaw arrived two years later,
of her own kind
and all four shared the conservatory, aviary and

TRAGEDY & A NEW FRIEND family playtime in the sitting room.

Artha’s growing up was interrupted by the greatest I achieved my long-held ambition and both macaws

tragedy any family can endure. Our youngest became active free-flyers. I never allowed the Greys

daughter Zoe committed suicide when Artha was free flight for fear of predators.

nine months old. During the months of protracted

grief, Artha showed compassion and sympathy. AND FINALLY …

I decided to find her an avian companion reasoning Maybe the saddest experience in caring for a parrot is

that, as she would outlive me, when she went to a death caused by an accident that should have been

another home she’d have Casper. Barrett Watson avoided—Artha’s fate a few months before she was 21.

bred Casper. The first time Artha and I visited Mina and Benni this year exhibited breeding

Barrett, Casper was in the tack room. I took him onto behaviour, preening one another and so forth.

my shoulder. Artha flew to my hand, crawled up my Unexpectedly in March, Mina attacked Artha and

arm and started grooming the baby chick. damaged a wing. A vet visit showed nothing broken.

‘That’s going to be okay,’ Barrett said. And so, it The wing healed in a week. I decided to keep the two

proved. On Casper’s first night, neither bird would settle species separate—I had two large cages. From then

until 14-week-old Casper was put into Artha’s cage. on, I shut the Greys in one cage and the two macaws

in another. They enjoyed separate aviaries and came

MATING OR NOT? out in pairs to share time with me.

(From My 2008 Notes) The accident happened when I closed the Greys in

Artha (9) and Casper their cage and left the macaws loose on the canopy

(7) are of mating age. of branches. I needed photographs of them asleep

Will they ever become a for an article. I took the pictures and left them

bonded pair? Opinions asleep instead of shutting them into their cage—a

are divided as to whether thoughtless mistake that must weigh on me for the

handreared birds mate rest of my life.

readily with their own Next morning, in something they had never done

species rather than fall before, the macaws opened the latch of the Greys’

in love with humans. cage. There must have been a fight of which I

Stephen Fry, of QI and heard nothing from my bedroom. It is possible that

Fry & Laurie fame, once Artha got out of her cage, had a stroke, and then

interviewed me and my the macaws mutilated her body. I will never know

husband for a program because I was too distressed to take the body to the

on manic depression. In vet for a necropsy and simply buried her in the front

a lull in the interview, he shrubbery. She keeps company with the ashes of my

began reading a poem in late husband Wal, who was cremated in September

Artha and Casper explore foliage German. Artha, bewitched 2018, and Zoe, who was cremated in August 2001.

in the outdoor aviary by his honey-dripping voice, crouched in front of A week later, the thought came to me that if

him, trembling, fluttering her semi-open wings and I can think of Zoe’s 27 years and celebrate her

moaning softly. ‘What’s she up to?’ Stephen asked. ‘If achievements, I can think like that about Artha’s

you don’t know, I’d rather not tell you’, I replied. life. She had not seemed all that well for the last

Casper’s first sexual encounter was even more year, although vet visits had never found the cause

unlucky. Perched beside Artha on top of the shower for her weak feathers and partial loss of flight. Her

rail, while I enjoyed a luxurious bubble bath below, he gentle, sociable friendly temperament never altered

was indulging in behaviour that had he been a boy, throughout her life—I miss her terribly.

490 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

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finch charm ThTe rEiaulrsopanedan TGroibludlfianticohns
AUTHOR & PHOTOS DAVID PACE

David STARTING OUT IN AVICULTURE AS A
young person in the mid-1970s, my collection
Top: European Goldfinch consisted of Zebra Finches, Diamond Doves and King
adult female—note the red Quail. Despite having a south-facing aviary that was exposed
face mask does not extend to to cold draughts, and a roof that drained all the rainwater to
the back of the aviary thereby wetting the floor, unbelievably
the rear of the eye. these three species not only survived but bred.

Right: The red mask can be It wasn’t long before I discovered all the other finch
used to determine sex in species available. As soon as my paper-round money came
in, new pairs were purchased until I had quite a collection
European Goldfinches. Note in what had become an over-crowded aviary. Unlike the
the red face mask of this above-mentioned species, breeding results were not so
forthcoming.
male extends to the back of
the eye. (A clear photograph PROSPECTING FOR GOLD

was achieved by placing One of the many species I purchased during these early
fresh milk thistle in the years was the European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis. I
was taken by their beauty and delicate stature—finer than
aviary and using a 300mm a canary and longer than a Zebra Finch. The red mask,
2.8 lens and flash) black and yellow wings, and delicate white spots made a
remarkable combination. They were part of my childhood,
492 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU singing and flittering about the Scotch Thistles that grew
wild about the paddocks of St Albans, an outer western
suburb of Melbourne. The pet shop in St Albans regularly
had European Goldfinches as they were legally trapped
for the pet trade, as they still are today. The fact that they
could be sourced from wild stock made them affordable.
Even today, their price certainly does not reflect the
difficulty in breeding this species. I’m convinced if wild stock
was not available, their price would be considerably higher.

I recall my first pair of European Goldfinches built a cup-
shaped nest and laid eggs. I remember my excitement the
day I peered into the nest to see newly hatched chicks…
However, my excitement turned to disappointment the
following morning when the nest was empty. This pattern
was to continue for many decades as breeding of this
species continued to elude me. The European Goldfinch
was to become my ‘hoodoo’ bird.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

This adult male European
Goldfinch was an
outstanding parent,
constantly feeding both
his mate on the nest and
chicks. The edges of his
beak became soiled, a
clear indication he was
feeding chicks

During the 1980s and 1990s I began specialising in It was during this pair’s third season that things finally

other species as I refined my avicultural skills and built clicked. As with the previous season, the female spent

experience. European Goldfinches entered my aviaries at a great deal of time on her nest while the male sang

various times but breeding was certainly not achieved. In incessantly. As this was no different to previous years, I

fact, nests were not even built. wasn’t going to get too excited yet. However, the sight

While living in Torquay, Victoria, I once again introduced of the male devouring mealworms, maggots, greens and

pairs of European Goldfinches into mixed collections of hard-boiled egg that was supplied for softbills did get my

finches and Neophemas. It was during this period that hopes up.

at least nests were constructed each year but still no The male would then fly back to the nest and was either

chicks eventuated, even though pairs were offered liberal feeding the female or the chicks directly—if in fact there

quantities of live food and greens. I was successfully were chicks. Soon I was convinced that chicks must be

breeding Yellow Siskins, a closely related species that present as his appetite for mealworms even rivalled the

builds a cup nest, but the ‘hoodoo’ with Goldfinches was White-browed Woodswallows that now shared this aviary

to continue into a third decade. and were also breeding.

The nest was only a few centimetres from the ceiling, so

IMPULSE AND PERSEVERANCE I was unable to inspect the contents so cannot confirm

Moving to Adelaide in 2016, I designed and built a new the incubation period or the number of chicks present.

aviary complex. Keeping European Goldfinches was On 6 January 2021, I could see that there were at least

not even on the agenda until I encountered Graham two chicks sitting in the nest. The following day three

Hakendorph, a well-known Adelaide bird dealer. He chicks could clearly be seen. They were fully feathered and

had a magnificent healthy pair in fine colour and feather. seemed about a week from fledging. During this time the

Memories of my childhood experiences with this male would consume fresh milk thistle which I provided

species returned. at least once per day. He made many trips to the nest

Graham noted my interest and added that this pair to feed his chicks. The sides of his beak were often wet,

was captive-bred and I could have them for $60— evidence of his parental duties. The female never showed

considerably more than one would pay for wild-caught the wetness about the beak. It was at this time, the female

birds. Needless to say, the birds were purchased and taken began to leave the nest to feed more regularly and even

to my newly completed aviaries. I was guilty of an impulse sun herself, wings and tail sprawled out on the aviary floor

purchase! during the hot January days.

The pair was liberated into a planted aviary measuring On 9 January the first chick fledged. Chicks at this stage

2.5m x 4m x 2.7m. They shared the aviary with Napoleon have the black wings and yellow wing bars but lack the red

Weavers, White-browed Scrub Wrens and Red-browed face. Flight was kept to a minimum as the chicks remained

Finches. During the first season no breeding was close to the actual nest. The following day the male was

attempted. The second season showed some promise seen driving the female back to nest. Eleven days after

as at least two attempts at breeding occurred. I was fledging the chicks were observed feeding themselves,

naturally apprehensive and, unfortunately, the pair failed picking at the corn cob provided, soaked seed and even

to produce chicks. eating mealworms.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 493

Two days prior to
fledging—one of four
chicks within the small

cup-shaped nest

DIET

Feeding was an interesting affair, and I watched the birds

carefully to record what fresh food items were favoured Chicks resemble their parents with distinct gold bars and black
from the feeding table after the morning feed-out. Fresh wings, but lack the distinctive red face mask and black crown
daily foods included:

• Warmed corn on the cob

• Soaked/sprouted seed, including grey sunflower, red GROWTH TO INDEPENDENCE

panicum, white millet and plain canary seed On 25 January, 16 days after fledging, the chicks were

• Live food in the form of maggots and mealworms observed drinking at the pond while the female carried

• Greens—chopped silverbeet and milk thistle nesting material to the used nest. At this point the chicks

• Insectivore softfood with chunks of boiled egg were consuming dry seed more frequently. One chick was

The adult female was first down to feed and consumed displaying the first of its black feathers on the forehead,

the sprouted grey sunflower, followed by mealworms. which would eventually boarder its red mask.

The adult male went straight to the mealworms. A young By 28 January, 19 days after fledging, the young appeared

Goldfinch consumed two mealworms, while another chick independent. However, the chicks still begged the adult

consumed maggots. A third chick went immediately to the male for food over the next 10 days. The female was back

soaked/sprouted seed. A chick was shortly afterwards seen on the nest incubating another clutch 21 days after the

consuming the dry grey sunflower and plain canary seed. first chicks had fledged, while the male resumed singing.

Adult male feeding on milk VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021
thistle, provided daily

494 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU

By three months of age,
the chicks resemble
their parents

Young European Goldfinches adore mealworms and eagerly
sought these from the feed tray, as well as greens and
soaked and sprouted seeds

The young were removed from the breeding aviary species and habitats, as Australia has no similar native

on 8 February, 30 days after fledging and placed into a species to compete with it. It would be a sad day if they

holding aviary. The main reason for removing them was were ever eradicated from the Australian landscape

that the Goldfinch family was dominating the mealworms as they are a delightful sight in parks, gardens and

provided, so this would reduce pressure on breeding birds. agricultural areas, as pairs or flocks move about in search

Up until this time I thought there were three chicks, but I of seeding grass heads. It is really not surprising that

discovered there were in fact four—a welcome surprise. European Goldfinches were Russell Kingston’s favourite

On 20 February, 42 days after fledging, the first red facial finch and adorned the cover of his last book, The Finch…

feather appeared on one of the chicks and it was not a Breeder’s Companion (2010). I think Russell sums up this

until 8 April, some 12 weeks after fledging, that the chicks species wonderfully when he states, ‘I rank the European

resembled their parents, although the red facial mask was Goldfinch as my favourite finch. Their interesting

more orange in colour. behaviour, lovely song and beautiful colouration are

attributes that I admire most’.

HOODOO OVER?

Well, it had finally happened: I had bred my ‘hoodoo’ REFERENCE

bird. Why did it take so many attempts? What changed? The Finch—A Breeder’s Companion, Kingston OAM,

It’s difficult to pinpoint. Pair compatibility, diet change, or Indruss Productions, 2010.

complete luck? Maybe it was a mixture of all three.

Keeping softbills within the same aviary may have had

something to do with the early failures and final success. As

European Goldfinches are a cup-nesting species, it may have

been that the wrens, woodswallows or the scrub wrens

were preying on the chicks. However, the woodswallows and

wrens co-existed during the successful clutch. Where the

softbills may have been a positive influence was the fact that

for the first time I had included chunks of hardboiled egg, LIVE FOOD AND REPTILE PRODUCTS

which the Goldfinches adored, within the insectivore mix.

I have found the European Goldfinch to be a long-

lived and hardy species, however, they are prone to

stress and can deteriorate quickly. Finch expert Russell

Kingston noted that many wild-caught Goldfinches in his

collection in the early 1980s had low survival rates due

to the detected presence of mega-bacteria. Sadly, after

her successful clutch of four chicks, my breeding female

was discovered in a terrible state on the aviary floor. She

was placed into a hospital cage but died overnight—the CRICKETS, MEALWORMS, SILKWORMS,

bitter-sweetness of aviculture. So often aviculture presents SUPERWORMS, BSFL, HOUSE-FLY PUPAE, WOODIES

us with tragedies that would rival a Shakespearian play! I

guess my hoodoo with this species continues after all.

INTRODUCED SPECIES AUSTRALIA WIDE SERVICE ©ABK

It is interesting to note that the European Goldfinch is a ORDERS: Phone 02 97900438 Fax 02 9790 0460
feral species, introduced into Australia in the late 1860s by Email [email protected] www.biosupplies.net.au
the Acclimatisation Society, becoming firmly established
throughout south-eastern Australia, including Tasmania.
As an introduced species, many wild Goldfinches are
trapped in large numbers for the local avicultural trade,
with many also being legally exported overseas. I recall
visiting a trapper in Melton, Victoria with Gary Fitt in 2006
and viewing a large number of wild European Gold and
Green Finches, destined to be exported to Canada.

Although an introduced species, I suspect the European
Goldfinch has little negative impact on our local bird

495VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

AUTHOR & PHOTOS

JADE WELCH New Zealand’s Jewels

the Kakariki

Yellow-crowned Kakariki male NEW ZEALAND IS HOME TO SOME OF
the world’s most curious, intelligent and
intriguing parrot species including the Kea
and Kakapo. These are the species most often seen
on nature documentaries, while their smaller cousins
the kakariki barely rate a mention.

Kākāriki (Māori meaning small green parrot)
refers to the Cyanoramphus species of New Zealand.
In New Zealand they include the Yellow-crowned
C. auriceps, the Red-fronted (aka Red-crowned)
C. novaezelandiae and the Orange-fronted
C. malherbi (aka Melherbe’s) Kakariki.

Other members of this genus include the Norfolk
Island C. cookii (aka Tasman, Norfolk Island Green
or Norfolk Island Red-crowned) Parakeet. Another of
the kakariki group is the Antipode’s Island Parakeet
which occurs in the remote Antipodes Islands.

In the wild, the Red-fronted and Yellow-crowned
Kakariki occupy forests and varying habitats
where they face threats from possums, stoats, rats
and mice, as well as the clearing of forests. Some
populations occur on pest-free islands such as
Tiritiri Matingi, where the Red-fronted Kakariki was
introduced in the 1970s, and in this situation the
species has flourished.

The Antipodes Island
Parakeet is one of the
less-known members of
the Cyanoramphus genus

496 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Orange-fronted
Kakariki

Red-fronted Kakariki on Tiritiri
Matangi Island, New Zealand

Red-fronted Kakariki

PHOTO PETER ODEKERKEN

They scratch about the forest floor and move about
the trees in search of food, all the while giving out
their pleasant calls. Their diet is varied and includes
berries, flowers, seeds, leaves and insects/larvae. An
observation was made on Tiritiri Matangi of a single
bird eating lichen. They will also feed on insect larvae.

IN CAPTIVITY

The Red-fronted and Yellow-crowned Kakariki are

what we know in captivity. What draws people to

keeping these little gems? They are big birds in little

packages and always on the go. They are curious and

not at all offensive in their call. They are well suited

to a small backyard and not at all demanding in their

care or dietary requirements. Another added element

is their ability to be kept as pets and their suitability

to relatively inexperienced bird keepers.

The Red-fronted Kakariki is the most widely

available in Australia, albeit pure wildtype birds (not

split for mutation) are so rare we risk losing them.

The Yellow-crowned Kakariki have also become rare.

Hybridisation to transfer mutations such as

Cinnamon between the species has not helped. A

concerted effort is needed to locate and maintain

populations of both species in pure wildtype so they

will not be lost forever.

Sourcing stock of mutation Red-fronted Kakariki Red-fronted Kakariki

is not difficult, although some mutations such as also be kept in planted aviaries, and to observe

the Parblue are rarer. Pied and Cinnamon mutations them in this environment is a magnificent thing,

have long been around and are relatively cheap. however, damage to foliage must be expected. In a

Mutations in these birds often drop in price rather conventional aviary they will come down to the floor

quickly as kakarikis are known to be prolific regularly and flick about the substrate in search of

breeders which can produce large clutches. dropped morsels.

The important thing is to look for quality birds A suspended aviary of 2m-plus is sufficient, but

that have come from clean conditions, have been well the bigger the better is the way to look at it with

looked after and are free of disease. Sexing of birds these birds which will utilise every square inch of

is often done visually, with females tending to be the aviary. Being such curious birds, if kept in a

smaller and males larger and with a broader beak. If suspended aviary it is recommended to give them

in doubt, DNA or surgical sexing is an option. access to a large foraging tray. The tray can be filled

with leaves and mealworms, and seed can be added

HOUSING to give the birds a chance to forage.

If kept in conventional aviaries, the floor should be Keepers may wish to provide their kakariki with

free-draining and roofing provide shelter for the short pipes to run through and hide. They are

birds, particularly during heavy rains. They may mischievous birds and will benefit from enrichment.

497VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

This Red-fronted Kakariki
developed some yellow on the
crown as it aged

Kakarikis enjoy a variety Kakarikis are not aggressive, so it is unlikely that
of foods including seed, swivel feeders will be required, although they can
flowering plants, fruits, be used for convenience. If kept in a conventional
vegetables and an aviary the birds will often land on the keeper once
occasional mealworm accustomed to them and attempt to check their
pockets. You have to be careful not to walk out of the
aviary with a bird on your shoulder! They will also
benefit from sprinklers, particularly on days where
the heat hits extremes. It must be remembered
that these birds are from cooler climates, so aviary
design needs to take that into account.

Suitable nest box for kakarikis DIET

These birds will do well on a varied and nutritious The crown colour on this bird suggests that it is
diet containing a quality seed or pellet mix, fruit, possibly a hybrid between the Red-fronted and the
vegetables, soaked seed, dandelion, seeding heads Yellow-crowned Kakariki
and the occasional mealworm. Offering mealworms
by hand can help to win over the trust of these
already inquisitive birds.

Flowers of bottlebrush and grevillea are also
consumed. Both the Red-fronted and Yellow-crowned
Kakariki will ‘exist’ on a seed diet and water but the
result is not likely to be a positive one.

Some breeders feed their birds using small dishes
within rather large high-sided trays due to the
kakariki’s constant habit of flicking through their
food. The provision of plenty of water in a good-sized
heavy-duty or fixed water bowl is important as these
birds love to bathe even on the coldest of days.

BREEDING parrot species, allowing these birds to self-pair is
Sexual maturity is reached for both the Red-fronted a good idea, however, kakarikis do tend to be free-
and Yellow-crowned Kakariki at just six months old, breeders and not the pickiest of parrots when it
but it is better to wait till these birds are 12 months comes to finding a partner.
old before allowing them to breed. As with most
They are extremely prolific breeders and will
Home of Australia’s Only CITES nest in a range of nest box sizes and designs.
Appendix 1 Captive Breeding Program Some breeders refrain from allowing their birds
to breed in the hotter months of the year as
• Parrots kakariki can be more prone to suffering from
• Harrisons, Pretty Bird & Nekton Foods heat than other species. However, given these
• Brinsea & AB Incubators birds can nest year-round and be so prolific,
some will lay eggs in the seed tray if there is
AVAILABLE AT www.priamsale.com no nest box.
FACEBOOK PRIAM AUSTRALIA & PRIAM SALE
EMAIL [email protected] The danger is these birds can burn themselves
PHONE 02 6128 0800 OR MOBILE 0421 383 051 out rather quickly, so it is best to prevent this from
happening wherever possible.
498 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021
Clutches of 7–10 eggs with 100% fertility are not
unheard of. Such is the great job most kakariki do in
raising their young that many aviculturists use them
to foster conures, caiques and many other parrots. As
a matter of fact, some breeders keep kakariki solely
for the purpose of fostering.

More
information
available in this
great book!

Highly Recommended

Cinnamon Pied
Red-fronted Kakariki

Pied Kakarikis such as Australian Long &
this Reverse Pied are more Broad-tailed Parrots &
common in aviculture than the
Normal wild type NZ Kakarikis

They will scratch up their nests just as they scratch make for delightful aviary subjects. As pet birds they 88 Colour Pages—
Housing, Feeding,
about their food bowls, so it is wise to top up the are underrated, and perhaps this will change in time. Nutrition, Breeding,
Handrearing and
nesting material if they empty it all. Nesting material As far as parrots go, they would have to be among the Individual Species

such as sawdust or wood shavings can be used. easiest to keep and breed. Chapters

The female incubates the eggs for 19–23 days. If However, it is obvious that we must all do more to Available from
ABK Publications at
given a second nest box, it is not unheard of for the ensure that captive populations of pure wildtype non- www.birdkeeper.com.au

female to let the male rear the nearly fledged young split birds are bred and kept pure for many years to Email: birdkeeper@
birdkeeper.com.au or
while she lays and incubates another clutch of eggs. come. We seriously risk losing both species as pure Phone 07 5568 0011

In periods of extreme heat, ventilation may Normal birds if we are not careful.

be required to prevent death of chicks in the Hopefully this article will inspire you to go out

nest box. This can be as simple as leaving the lid in search of these birds and add them to your

inspection door ajar, although obviously not so much collection. You won’t regret adding either species to

that the birds can escape. your collection.

MUTATIONS

As mentioned earlier, the Red-fronted
Kakariki is bred in the Cinnamon,
Pied and Parblue mutations. Others,
such as Misty, Fallow and Lutino are
being worked on in various parts of the
world. As in Australia, obtaining pure
birds not split for mutation is difficult
in many countries. It is imperative that
Normal wildtype birds are bred with
unrelated stock to ensure their viability
going forward. This will benefit both the
mutation enthusiasts and purists.

KAKARIKI AS PETS • Takes the guesswork out of achieving a balanced diet • Scientifically formulated extruded diet
• Free of artificial colors, preservatives and flavorings • Provides complete nutrition for all life-stages
While we see many conures, lovebirds
and Cockatiels being handreared for the Since 1987, three generations of parrot species bred and raised on Tropican!
pet trade, the same cannot be said for the
Red-fronted and Yellow-crowned Kakariki www.assetdistributors.com.au
which are both underrated as pet birds.
Kakarikis are extremely curious birds © HAGEN GROUP 2021 | All Rights Reserved
and cannot simply be left to sit in a cage.
They are a rewarding species to keep as
a pet if cared for properly and provided
enrichment and space.

CONCLUSION

Both the Red-fronted and Yellow-crowned
Kakariki are delightful and inoffensive
birds. They are quiet, highly energetic and

499VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

AUTHOR & PHOTOS
ADAM FITZGERALD

Yellow-crowned

‘Yellow-clowned’Kakarikimale

KAKARIKIS

NO, THE TITLE IS NOT A MISPRINT.
Back in 2000, I wrote an article ‘Clowns of
the bird world—Yellow-crowned Kakarikis’
(ABK, vol. 13 no. 2). This article follows on from that,

with my most recent experiences.

There are two species of kakariki available

to Australian aviculturists—the Red-fronted

Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae and the Yellow-

crowned Cyanoramphus auriceps. The latter is my

preference, but a few years after my previous article

was printed, I ended up moving on all of my Yellow- Note the colouring on this bird's crown—an obvious sign of
crowned Kakarikis and had not kept them again hybridisation between Yellow-crowned and Red-fronted Kakarikis
until recently.

When the opportunity to purchase two pure only to find it appeared to be a hybrid of the two

Normal females came up in August 2019, I jumped species. The bird had red from the top of the beak

at the chance—I’d been on the hunt for some time. extending right up into the crown, which should be

Interestingly, I made mention in my previous article all yellow.

that Red-fronted Kakarikis are far more readily Eventually, I did find two suitable males that were

available than the Yellow-crowned. Unfortunately, young, unrelated, and Normal. I got down to central

in the 20-plus years since, it appears the situation Victoria to collect them the weekend before the first

has become worse, with even fewer Yellow-crowns Covid-related border closure and, after an 18-hour

available—especially mutation-free specimens—and day and a 1500km roundtrip, got them home and

also limited numbers of pure Red-fronts. settled in.

After several months of searching for two suitable Sexes are easy to distinguish, even from a young

males, I found a single bird, went to great effort to age in kakarikis, with the male’s top beak and head

arrange for it to be brought down via road transport, much larger and bolder than that of the female.

500 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Z-shaped nest boxes are
located in the walkway
with access from within the
suspended aviaries

HOUSING During hot weather the
inspection door can be opened
These days, I use two different flights for my Yellow- allowing better airflow—note
the wire security cover
crowns. Pair 1 is housed in a conventional aviary,
BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 501
3m long x 0.6m wide x 2.4m high. This flight is

fully roofed. The back half is covered in solid metal

sheeting, the front half open wire. It has a concrete

floor covered in washed river sand. There is a safety

walkway at the rear of the aviary.

Pair 2 is housed in a suspended aviary, 3m long x

0.9m tall x 0.75m wide, which is half covered and half Vitamin/calcium powders can be added over the

open wire, with a safety walkway at the rear. The nest thawed vegies as required.

box is fitted externally in the walkway, with access There is no point in using seed hoppers for

from inside the flight via a small natural log spout. kakarikis because as fast as you pour the seed in the

Personally, I much prefer to house all species top, they’ll be scratching it out the bottom. Instead,

(kakarikis, Neophema and Psephotus grass parrots I use large round glazed ceramic bowls (dog water

etc) that spend a lot of time on the ground in bowls) which sit inside a deep stainless steel feed tray

conventional aviaries. I find it’s more natural for (purchased from kitchen/hospitality supply stores).

them. Alas, due to space, I don’t have that option Quality grit mix, such as Naturally for Birds

for my current second pair. To make life more Fitgrit, and cuttlebone are always available, along

comfortable and interesting for them though, there with fresh water daily—twice daily in hot weather.

are two large stainless steel trays filled with washed Kakarikis also love to bathe, so large, round, glazed

river sand on the floor to scratch around in. A long, ceramic water bowls are used.

thick tree branch also runs the length of the aviary

floor, so the birds can run up and down the log BREEDING

instead of being on the wire floor. I try to encourage breeding between early-mid

Wire used on all my aviaries is heavy-gauge autumn and late spring due to heat implications.

12.5mm x 12.5mm. After finally pairing the birds up, I decided to leave

Having learnt years ago that kakarikis don’t cope them be for a few weeks to bond before supplying

with the heat, the aviaries these days are modified them with nest boxes. Again, due to kakarikis

to make the birds more comfortable. The walls of the not coping well with the heat, I used Z-shaped

walkway on the suspended aviaries are insulated nest boxes. These enable the chicks to spread

with polystyrene with flat Colorbond™ sheeting over themselves out along the length of the box, so

the top to secure and protect it. The same method they aren’t confined to the base, thereby ‘cooking’

is used on the roofing sections for the pair in the themselves if the weather is too hot. Another

conventional aviary. A secondary roof (with 50mm advantage of this style of nest box is that the

gap from main roof) has been installed over the inspection door can be propped open with a small

suspended aviaries to allow free airflow and reduce piece of aviary wire secured over the hole to allow

radiant heat. better airflow.

Misting systems are installed across the roofs of Within a few days, the female paired with the

all the aviaries, which allows cooling of the entire younger 4-month-old male (Pair 2) and started laying

roof space and provides the birds with extra bathing eggs on the floor of the suspended aviary. While

options during excessively hot weather. this is not ideal because the birds hadn’t had time to

bond yet, coupled with the young age of the male,

DIET I provided access to a nest box. I figured if she’s

Not much has changed in what I feed the kakarikis going to lay a clutch anyway, she may as well do it

even after all these years. They get a basic seed mix properly and be allowed to incubate. The female laid

comprising a finch mix, with small amounts of grey- another seven eggs (after the initial two on the floor)

striped sunflower, safflower and hulled oats added. and incubated them well. However, as suspected, the

To this mix, Vetafarm™ Parrot Pellets are added in clutch turned out to be infertile.

small quantities. Meanwhile, about eight weeks after providing a

Mixed frozen (thawed) vegies are provided each nest box to Pair 1, both started showing interest and

morning, along with a good handful of leafy greens spending time in the nest box. The first of eight eggs

(celery leaves, baby spinach leaves, bok choy etc). was laid on 30 September 2020.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Approximately 26 days after finding the first egg, male, all the possible split young males and the
the chicks started to hatch. A total of five hatched. Of Cinnamon female from my breeding program.
the remaining three eggs, two were infertile and one Unfortunately, at the time of writing, I am still
was an early death. trying to source a suitable replacement male for the
Pair 2 female.
By this time, the Pair 2 female had finally given up
incubating her eggs (after almost four weeks) and Occasionally I see advertisements for Yellow-crowns
they were removed. online. Some sellers go to great lengths to spruik not
only how rare these birds are, but how finding pure
Approximately four weeks later, Pair 2 laid again, specimens such as those advertised is no easy task;
with a total of eight eggs in this clutch. Of these, six boasting how pure their birds are. Unfortunately,
were fertile. They began hatching approximately 20 in most cases the accompanying images show
days after I discovered the first two eggs. Cinnamons and even Pied birds among those for sale.
This highlights the importance and greater-than-ever
The chicks in both clutches grew well, with both need to maintain pure wildtype stocks, not only in
females keeping their chicks constantly well fed. Yellow-crowns but in all species in our care. Sadly,
Number 8 closed leg rings were fitted on the chicks even pure Normal Red-crowned Kakarikis have
as they reached about the 13-day mark. almost disappeared from aviculture here.

Unfortunately, as the chicks in Pair 2 grew and CONCLUSION
started to develop pin feathers, one of them looked
different. It turned out to be a Cinnamon mutation! After 20-plus years, I’m thoroughly enjoying
To say I was devastated was an understatement—the keeping these wonderful aviary subjects again. It
Pair 2 male was clearly split for Cinnamon. is, I must say, disappointing how hard it has been
to find them in recent years—how they seem to
Overall, Pair 1 fledged five chicks—four males and have fallen even more by the avicultural wayside.
one female. Unfortunately, a short time after the first If it weren’t for a small handful of dedicated
chick fledged, he was found dead on the floor with aviculturists, I’ve no doubt kakarikis could have
injuries to the front of his beak. I can only assume easily been lost by now.
he struck the wire too hard, although generally
when young kakarikis fledge they are quite slow, I am hopeful that this article will inspire more
deliberate and good flyers. The remaining four aviculturists to take up the challenge of keeping and
chicks were all successfully raised to independence. maintaining these incredible birds so that my next
article in another 20 years does not tell the sad story
Pair 2 fledged six chicks—one male (possibly of how we used to have these awesome New Zealand
split to Cinnamon) and five females (including the parrots in our aviaries that were affectionately
single Cinnamon female). All of these chicks were known as ‘Yellow-clowned Kakarikis’.
successfully raised to independence.

As I’m striving to keep pure Normal lines of these
increasingly rare kakarikis, I culled the breeding

2020 BREEDING RESULTS Newly hatched About 8 days old About three weeks old

YELLOW-CROWNED
KAKARIKI CHICK

DEVELOPMENT

Fledglings with adult female on the right—note second from Juveniles—note the Cinnamon mutation female on the left
the left, the young male has a larger beak and head

502 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Hispaniola Amazon pair AUTHOR ANDREW RANKMORE

PHOTO PETER ODEKERKEN breeder perspective

HisTphaeniola Amazon

THE HISPANIOLA AMAZON IS A RARE white forehead descending to the lores. They have a dark
and unusual Amazon in aviculture. While the odd matt-blue crown on the top of the head, spreading to the
collection has reasonable numbers of this species, back of the head and towards the eye. The ear coverts
they cannot be considered common. I have witnessed have a contrasting darker blue (blackish) circle pattern.
Andrew
Hispaniola Amazons in aviculture and felt they were a very The lower abdomen has a red-infused maroon
BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 503
quiet and quaint species of unusual interest. colouration that varies in size between individuals. The

Specimens have been seen within Australia in relatively largely green tail has a clear red rectangular patch from

recent history, but it is hard to determine the status the base to about midway on the lower side. The beak is

or existence of any sustainable population. Possibly, a beautiful horn-colour, and a white eye-ring stands out

the very few that have been confirmed are from stock from the remaining head colouration. Feet are grey.

originating prior to import bans, which have quietly Juvenile birds display very little blue colouration on the head

continued in extremely small numbers. It is possible they and ear coverts, the white forehead contains yellow elements,

were misidentified as ‘White-fronts’ in the now-defunct and the brown/maroon abdomen is absent or undeveloped.

National Exotic Bird Registration Scheme (NEBRS). Hispaniola Amazons measure approximately 26–29cm

in length and weigh 230–280g.

DESCRIPTION

The appearance and size of the Hispaniola causes anyone IN THE WILD

unfamiliar with the rarer Amazons to pause and double- Habitat and Status

take. At a quick glance it could be mistaken for some form The Hispaniola Amazon is listed as a vulnerable species

of Amazon hybrid or a Pionus relation. on the International Union for Conservation of Nature

Adult birds appear with a primarily green body of a (IUCN) index, which places it at the lower end of the

darker hue than typical of most Amazons, with a clear threatened category for population concern.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Hispaniola Amazon foraging
among palm fronds and fruits

PHOTO EDWIN GODINHO

A vertical nest with
10cm diameter entry is
suitable for breeding the
Hispaniola Amazon

This species does not often stray from relatively food- with a suitable surrounding environment more imperative.

rich sources and, as such, generally inhabits areas of Despite all this, well-bonded and productive pairs can

remaining forest on its home islands of Haiti and the reproduce successfully.

Dominican Republic. Currently population numbers are

stronger on the Dominican Republic, but the popularity Housing

of illegal trapping and pet-keeping of this species could A medium-sized suspended aviary of 4m long x 1m wide

see this change soon. While Haiti and nearby islands have x 1m high is suitable. However, to offset aggression

clear breeding populations, they are smaller in number and potential, I would suggest larger again. Having an open

therefore more vulnerable. aviary design with plant screen (cane palms or other

The natural restriction and isolation of island habitats denser foliage) assists with both privacy and making

makes human interference even more concerning as the birds feel at ease. A vertical nest box of 20–25cm

there is little room for parrots to relocate. Overall, square x 1m high provides depth and darkness, with a

sadly, the consensus is all populations of Hispaniola reasonably tight area to make the female feel more secure.

Amazons within their natural range are on the decline, An entrance hole of 10cm diameter suits the species.

making avicultural efforts with this species even Wooden boxes are preferred, but my experience with

more important. plastic or metal boxes in a complex’s walkway indicates

that these materials could also be successful.

Behaviour

In terms of wild behaviour, Breeding

Hispaniola Amazons are When in breeding mode, males will display and call to their

often seen together in small delight, while becoming particularly aggressive towards

groups or pairs. They are owners or intrusions. Occasional aggressive acts against

generally considered noisy, the female are to be expected in the presence of intrusion,

which I have not observed but this should be quick, temporary behaviour and not

in captivity. Typically, the unrelenting. If it is the latter, the female needs to be

wild diet consists of various separated quickly. Should copulation occur, it will be side by

fruits, berries and seeds side and once begun will often be repeated regularly.

found within the forest When the female is close to laying her first egg, she will

habitat. More specific spend increasing amounts of time in the box, until she

identification of wild food stays in overnight. This is a sign she is about to lay that

sources and preferences has night or the next. Clutches are 2–4 small oval-shaped eggs,

not been studied. and incubation lasts 26–27 days. Should young hatch, they

are not unlike other more common Amazons, and can be

IN CAPTIVITY confidently raised from the egg by keepers with some prior

Hispaniola Amazons have experience and suitable handraising approaches.

Suspended aviaries are a smaller following in Young leave the nest between 10–12 weeks if parent-
suitable for housing the
Hispaniola Amazon avicultural and/or breeder circles despite their relative raised, though some sources claim eight weeks. Keepers

PHOTO PETER ODEKERKEN popularity as a pet due to their talking ability. This lack I have spoken to cite 11–13 weeks as the typical weaning

504 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU of interest seems to relate to their drabber appearance time, which again reflects the growth rate and needs of

compared to some of the other medium-sized birds available. others in the genus.

The captive breeding of this species is also wanting,

with pairs seemingly less inclined or prolific than others Life Expectancy

in the genus. Male Hispaniola Amazons can also have a Life span for Hispaniola Amazons is reasonably well

penchant for aggression, making finding compatible pairs undocumented, certainly as far as reasonable sample sizes on

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

which you can rely, considering individual variables. But based
on others in the genus, and the propensity for Amazons
of similar size to have similar life expectancy, I believe it
reasonable to suggest 20–25 years is a likely average.

The biggest problem with this species is the difficulty in
achieving success, and even when this does happen, the
inconsistency and small numbers take their toll. Any hope
of replenishment from legally wild-caught birds is highly
unlikely, and wild populations struggle with their own
human impact issues.

Diet

The Hispaniola Amazon is as easy to care for as many Hispaniola Amazon
other medium-sized South American parrot within
Suitable diet for
aviculture. If fed a varied diet from young, they will readily Amazon parrots
accept all suitable foods rather than being fussy. From

the experience of keepers abroad, pellets designed for its unusual colours and rarity. The challenge of breeding
Amazons or other South American parrots are a very
good nutritional base. The birds also enjoy sprouted

pigeon mix, a sprinkle of sunflower (not in excess) and the this species adds another dimension for the seasoned
typical fruit and vegetables for South American parrots— aviculturist, while not representing a difficult daily burden

banana, apple, pear, steamed carrot, peas, corn etc. or highly specialised needs. The species carries a high
This species is very easy to please and very willing to interest in some pet markets due to its high trainability

take all that is good for them. and ability to speak or mimic human speech so clearly.
While the Amazon genus is not generally known for I hope in years to come more and more serious

calcium-related issues, it is a good idea to consider some breeders with the facilities and background to support
calcium supplementation, particularly in mid to late-life this species engage to increase their number to a
females with breeding history. However, as the Hispaniola sound insurance population within aviculture. Their

Amazon never breeds in large numbers, its calcium peril in the natural habitat cannot be underestimated

replacement requirements would be lower than those of and is likely to suddenly worsen as older existing birds

the more prolific species. perish from age.

CONCLUSION REFERENCES

The Hispaniola Amazon is a quaint collectors’ species that www.parrots.org.com

may not strike instant admiration but attracts breeders for www.beautyofbirds.com

aHnadnbdaFc1G0ke2iln10smtolck Liquid Gold
Calcium & Vitamin D3 Supplement for Birds
The
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Solution “like gold”for breeding birds.

for Animal, Bird „ Essential minerals magnesium and
manganese for egg-shell formation.
and Reptile Housing,
„ Lutein a natural egg-yolk antioxidant
Cleaning and Disease Control to support healthy chick growth.

Coronavirus • Total spectrum of kill— „ Add to drinking water, soaked seed
(COVID-19) is a bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, or soft foods.
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Available in 250mL, 1L and 5L
EFFECTIVE DISINFECTION • Rapid speed of kill—
AND DILIGENT HYGIENE 30 secs Gram +ve bacteria and www.wombaroo.com.au
60 secs Gram -ve bacteria at a phone I 08 8391 1713
IS ESSENTIAL 1:500 dilution email I [email protected]

Available in 200ml, 1L and 5L • Non-corrosive, non-toxic, 505VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •
non-tainting, non-irritating, totally
Concentrates and 500ml Hand Gel safe to handle and not hazardous

Available from

distribution Phone 07 5568 0011 ©ABK
[email protected]
www.birdkeeper.com.au

Tips

for Transporting Birds

IN 2018 I MOVED FROM NEW SOUTH and rules regarding what birds can be brought into
Wales to Queensland, but I did not make certain Australian states. For example, in New South
the journey alone. As a bird keeper, I also Wales I did not need a licence for Painted Firetail

moved my full collection of birds. At the time this Finches but in Queensland, at the time I moved, you

comprised Indian Ringnecks, Alexandrine Parakeets, needed a movement permit and a native bird licence

Moustache Parrots, Plum-headed Parrots and my for over 10 of these birds. Thankfully, that has now

entire finch collection. This included Painted Firetail changed, and Painted Firetail Finches no longer

Finches, Star Finches, Gouldian Finches, Red-faced need a licence.

AUTHOR & PHOTOS Parrot Finches and Orange Waxbills.
NATHANIEL COEN
CATCHING BIRDS

PLANNING I have three different types of bird net to catch out

One of the first things I did in preparation for the my parrots and finches. The first is a large, thick,

move was to purchase the book Suitable Housing for dark material for the parrots. They feel calmer in this

Finches and Softbills by Paul Dick. I found it valuable net compared to see-through ones. Also, the net is

as its information can be applied to parrots as well. large enough to accommodate the larger parrots that

Luckily, I was moving somewhere warmer than I I keep, such as Alexandrines and Eclectus. It could

currently lived, so the only addition I had to make also be used to catch macaws and African Greys.

was bird baths in each aviary to keep the birds cool My second is a padded see-through net that I use

in the humidity of Queensland summers. However, to catch my small parrots and finches (but could also

the book also included ideas for cool climates, such be used for doves and pigeons). It has an extendable

as having clear café blinds that roll down over the handle which is good because I have arched aviaries

aviary to hold in the warmth on cool winter nights. and some of the birds like to sit up on the roof wire

It is definitely important when you are considering to avoid being caught. The net’s padding helps to

moving to a different climate to look into what limit any potential injuries that could occur during

changes you may need to make to the aviary, such the catching process.

as heat lamps for a source of warmth, or misting The third net is see-through and unpadded.

This is good if you need a second person to help

catch the fast-flying birds like finches, but does

have the disadvantages of not expanding and not

being padded.

A catching net with padded systems for hotter climates. Contacting a local bird TRANSPORT BOXES AND CAGES
rim helps prevent injury club to find out tips and tricks for aviary designs can
be very useful. Most clubs are more than happy to There are a number of possibilities for transporting
506 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU share knowledge about the common aviary designs birds. On this occasion I used white foldable cages
used in their area, and where to go to purchase for the parrots. These were great as they had a
aviaries if you can’t build your own. perch and two feeders for food and water to make
transporting easy and comfortable for the birds
Legislation is another important thing to look on the long journey. Being foldable is a bonus
into, as there are different licencing requirements as they can be easily stored away when no longer
required.

I used a freight box for the finches. The box had a
perch and was divided into three, allowing me to fit
in all my finches. I also placed food and water dishes
in the box as it was a long car trip. The late Russell
Kingston once said that even if it is a short trip,
always provide water for your birds. I did, and also
added Spark electrolyte by Vetafarm™ to the water
from the day before the move until the birds were
released to their new aviaries, as they were stressed
being kept in cages.

On other occasions I have used small wooden carry
boxes to transport finches. The great thing about
these is the rubber insert on the entrance wall that

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Small animal cages are
suitable for larger parrots—
beware they can easily
escape when the door is
opened

and Plum-headed Parrots. They are also darker,

which helps keep the bird calm when it is being

transported. Another positive in using these boxes

is that the wire front can be unclipped and stacked

together for storage. I know some breeders use these

cages for macaws and African Grey Parrots.

There are also boxes available which have a wooden

cover over the front to make them darker to help

keep the occupying bird calm. I have not used these

prevents birds from flying out—very handy when you boxes but have used something similar for finches.

are catching multiple birds. These boxes are great Unfortunately, the triple air freight box I used was

for transporting all finch species and canaries to and not designed for multiple use as the back had to be

from home when you buy and sell. screwed shut and there was no rubber protecting the

I have two designs of these boxes. The first has no entry. Overall, the darkness of the box was good as

perch which is good when buying new birds as I can the birds felt safe and comfortable for long trips.

add a perch and throw it away afterwards to make

the box easy to clean after use. The second box has PERCHES

two perches and is good for longer trips. It is important that perches be made from natural

I also use a medium wooden box for transporting woods like Eucalyptus, bottlebrush, Melaleuca,

small parrots such as Musk Lorikeets and Scarlet- teatree, grevillea and banksia. Natural wood is good

chested Parrots. It can also be used for pigeons and for the bird’s feet as the bark is textured and helps

doves. The opening does not have a rubber insert, birds to maintain grip and balance during transport

which makes it more suitable for transporting larger more than a dowel perch would.

species and, because it does not have a perch, I tend

to use it only for short trips. CONCLUSION

Also useful for short trips, including to the vet, There is really no big secret to transporting birds

are small animal carry cages commonly used to when you move. As long as they have food, water and

transport cats, rabbits and guinea pigs. I can place a perch, and their cage is secure, there should not be

natural perches in these cages and they are suitable a problem. Luckily for me, the only time I transport

for transporting my larger birds such as Eclectus birds now is when I buy and sell, and it is not such a

Parrots, Indian Ringnecks, Alexandrines, Moustache long trip.

This carry box is suitable
for transporting finches
and small parrots. Note
the rubber insert on the
entrance wall and the
perch located low in
cage. Foods and water are
provided within the cage

507VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

mutation mutterings THE PIED SCARLEPT-CaHrErSoTtED
AUTHOR & PHOTOS PAUL COURT & RAY CHAPMAN THE SCARLET-CHESTED PARROT IS A inheritance, it is a fair indication that this mutation is not
very enigmatic bird in Australian aviaries. Many incomplete dominant.
aviculturists like to keep them, particularly
fanciers of the smaller natives. However, these birds are DOMINANT PIED

despised for their penchant for dropping off the perch We could not find evidence of any Dominant Pied Scarlet-

far too easily. Many times over the years we have heard chested Parrot mutations having ever been worked on in

people say, ‘I love Scarlets; they are such a beautiful bird, Australia, although a lot of breeders like to just plug away

but I just can’t keep them alive’. with new mutations and fly under the radar until they

There is no doubt that although they are stunning, definitively establish something. It would be very interesting

Scarlet-chested Parrots could also be classed as a bit to know if an Incomplete Dominant Pied has ever shown

of a specialist little bird, in the sense that you need to up in Australian aviaries so, if you have any knowledge of

specifically cater for their needs in regard to draughts this, please contact us through Australian BirdKeeper.

and aviary type to ensure they stay healthy. Nutrition-

wise they are a reasonably easy bird to cater for, with RECESSIVE PIED

a good quality small seed mix, fresh fruit and veg, and The other type of pied mutation being worked on here

some seasonal greens like seeding grasses, milk thistle in Australia is what is thought to be a genuine Recessive

and dandelion to keep them healthy. Pied, which shows colour in the nest from birth, with

birds retaining this colour with no change through the

A SEA OF MUTATIONS course of their life.

There has been a long line of mutations developed over This mutation was first noticed in a male with a white

decades to keep the Scarlet-chested Parrot breeder feather on the back of its head. Nothing much was

wanting the next new mutation to work with. Mutations thought of the white feather initially, until the breeder

such as Sea Green, Parblue, White-fronted Blue, Khaki, decided to line-breed this male to his daughter from the

Ashen Fallow, Pastel and Dark Factor, and the multitude previous year to see if anything would be reproduced in

of combinations that can be developed, have kept many a the form of a Pied.

breeder content. Sure enough, from the one nest of three chicks that year,

More recently in Australia, the development of a one young female had a white feather on the back of the

couple of new mutations in Cinnamon and Opaline, and head. Since then, with a couple of pairings on the perch,

the increasing availability of a previously rare mutation a couple of birds showing colour have been produced.

in Bronze Fallow have given Scarlet breeders new One pairing has been set up as a bird showing some pied

combinations to strive for. colour to an unrelated non-pied line bird. This pairing has

never produced anything with colour. That and the fact

MOTTLE PIED that Pied birds have only been produced from pairings

One mutation that has been spoken about for many years consisting of Pied to Pied or Pied to split, has given rise to

but never materialised in the Scarlet-chested Parrot to the thought that this mutation is recessive.

the extent of being readily available is the Pied. There has Some birds have shown pied colouring in the wings,

previously been a Mottle Pied mutation that frustratingly others on the back of the head. One has been produced

moults in as the bird gets older. Unfortunately, you have with white markings on the feet. Another bird had white

to keep every bird you breed until they are 2–3 years old in the flights but, unfortunately, it was lost in the nest.

to know what you have as this mutation typically does not

show colour in the nest but colours up and moults in as CONCLUSION
Paul &Raythe bird gets older.
Pied mutations can take a long time to establish and

Some stunning birds with high levels of visual pied develop to the point where heavily marked pied birds are

markings have been produced but the mutation has never present in the mutation. This is very much evidenced in

really become established enough to become available the Pied Bourke’s Parrot mutation that was established

to the masses. Talking to one of the previous breeders here in Australia. It took a long time to get going, but now

of the mutation, this Mottle Pied was thought to be there are absolutely stunning heavily marked Pied Bourke’s

recessive in nature, in that to get a bird that would colour Parrots readily available and well and truly established in

up as it got older you had to have a bird that was bred Australian aviaries.

from a Pied (a split) or have two coloured birds together. Although there seems to be a long road ahead with this

The breeder we spoke to said that he had tried multiple mutation, there is at least a start and, in that, a chance for

times putting a Pied bird to a Normal bird to cross out, another stunning mutation to add to the great ensemble

but none of those babies ever coloured up as Mottle of mutations already present in the Scarlet-chested Parrot

Pieds. While this is not totally definitive as to mode of here in Australia.

508 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

PIED MARKINGS Note the white feather
IN THE SCARLET- on the wing of this bird
CHESTED PARROT which unfortunately died
while fledging

Note the white feather on BOOKS
the back of the head

Dark Green Toenails indicate Left: Cinnamon Galah, owned
bird with pied pied inheritance and bred by Hayden Dix
markings in
the wing and a PHOTO HAYDEN DIX
yellow feather
on the back of Available from
the head ABK at

www.birdkeeper.com.au
or see Free Mail
Order Card

Dark Green bird with pied CARTOON CORNER
feathers in the wing

Parblue bird with white “You need a little more self confidence” ©2020
pied feather on the back
of the head 509VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

AUTHOR & PHOTOS
PETER ODEKERKEN

Golden-shouldered Parrot
female (left) and male

WE MUST NOT
LOSE THE

Golden-shouldered
Parrot

510 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

THE GOLDEN-SHOULDERED PARROT
Psephotus chrysopterygius is in a world of
trouble both in the wild and in captivity. This
beautiful antbed parrot is facing extinction in the

wild due to a number of factors. It would be criminal

if some day our children were not able to see them

in the wild because we did not act. We must not

let the Golden-shouldered Parrot follow the same

demise as our wonderful Paradise Parrot Psephotus

pulcherrimus which is surely extinct.

The Golden-shouldered Parrot was widely

distributed throughout much of Cape York’s open

woodland but is now only recorded in two very

restricted regions, the Artemis-Dixie Stations south

of Musgrave Roadhouse and to the north-west of

Chillagoe. The latter region has not been effectively

monitored for some time, so the species is under

serious threat.

The threat within Queensland aviculture is the to recognise the threat and retreat into the safety of Golden-shouldered pair atop

result of many people interested in the species being the nest cavity. their wild anthill nest

reluctant to keep them due to state laws requiring All conservation projects like this one at Cape York

detailed record-keeping. Many consider this to be cost money, and we need to donate to make sure this

onerous and now aviculturists are preventing the project realises its objective. If every bird or wildlife- A friend, John Courtney,
Golden-shouldered Parrot from breeding because lover in Australia contributed a mere $2, we could shows how close to the
it is so difficult to sell the young, and they cannot all say we have helped save this precious bird as well ground an active Golden-
accommodate numerous pairs. as helping innumerable other wildlife in the same shouldered Parrot nest
habitat. Even the endangered antbed parrot moth entrance can be located
The state authorities still feel that control is

necessary to curb illegal trapping of Golden- Trisyntopa scatophaga will be saved, as it relies on

shoulders, which is understandable from a historical the chicks’ faeces for its larvae to survive.

aspect. However, the reality is that it is just not Golden-shouldered Parrots are reliant on open

worth the effort these days for those unethical Melaleuca and Eucalypt woodlands that are wet

enough to be involved in trapping to obtain them or dry, dependant on the aptly named seasons of

from the wild, with pairs selling for $300 a pair northern Australia. These woodlands are covered by

or less. Firstly, Golden-shouldered Parrots are annual grasses which are the main source of food

difficult to locate as they are so restricted in in either a green or dry state, along with flowers

their distribution compared to a few decades ago. and their nectar. I have witnessed Hooded Parrots

Secondly, if poachers are caught, then rightly heavy Psephotus dissimilis in the Northern Territory

penalties are exercised on the offenders, and vehicles feeding on termites as they excavate the nest chamber,

can be impounded as well. a great source of protein, as well as feeding on Golden

I personally wish that regulations would relax to Grevillea Grevillea pteridifolia found across the Top

get more aviculturists keeping Golden-shouldered End. I am positive that the Golden-shouldered Parrot

Parrots. This is a delicate situation that needs to would rely on these sources for nutrition as well.

be addressed, otherwise this species will be rare in Golden-shouldered Parrots are found in small

the wild and in captivity—an outcome that could see flocks and are often associated with woodswallows,

them become extinct. which are very conscious of predators such as

Butcherbirds. As the breeding season arrives

IN THE WILD towards the end of the wet season, pairs move into

As you would have read in the last issue of the vicinity of the flood plains where numerous

Australian BirdKeeper magazine there is a push termite mounds can be found. Conical mounds built

to turn around the critical wild situation that the by the Amitermes scopulus termite are preferred,

Golden-shouldered Parrot finds itself in. Steve with nest entrances often close to the ground. I have

Murphy, a respected applied ecologist, and Sue and seen the entrance as low as 60cm above the ground,

Tom Sheppard, of Artemis Station, are spearheading which makes for easy access by predators such as

the changes needed to save this species in the Cape feral cats, goannas and snakes.

York region.

It basically comes down to rehabilitating the Breeding

Golden-shouldered Parrot’s habitat by reducing Pairs become territorial, with squabbles over

the encroachment of Melaleuca and introduced mounds common at the start of the breeding season.

shrubs and weeds to open up breeding areas. It Courtship is performed by the male. He makes short,

appears habitat thickening increases ambush undulating flights around the female, often with

predation by feral cats as well as Black-backed excited calls. The male will land near the female and

and Pied Butcherbirds. These predators can sit walk determinedly towards her with raised frontal

unobserved close to a nest and take adults but head feathers. The female when aroused will crouch This male Golden-shouldered

more likely their chicks. over a branch with her rump raised and tail held Parrot stops at the nest
As chicks reach fledging stage they can be seen horizontally. Sometimes she may raise her frontal entrance before quietly
head feathers. The male then copulates, with both entering to feed his offspring
watching out from the entrance to the new world

that awaits them, or perhaps they are just hoping to feet gripping the female.

be the first fed when their parents arrive? Either way, A narrow tunnel is created to an internal chamber,

they are extremely vulnerable at this time. In a more approximately 15cm in diameter, where 4–7 eggs

open habitat with some distance to be covered to are laid. Incubation period is about 20 days and the

access a nestling by a predator, the chicks have time chicks leave the nest at about five weeks.

511VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

A scene every aviculturist Both parents feed the chicks and it is usual for the is suffering from regulations, particularly in
aspires to…recently fledged pair to arrive at a nearby tree calling. I think the Queensland. Overseas it is a most desirable and
young with parents, male calls announce their presence to the chicks. If all proudly held species. Golden-shouldered Parrots are
(right) separated from is clear, the female invariably enters the nest first, not difficult to keep or breed provided husbandry
female (left) by one clinging to the termite mound at the entrance for a meets their requirements. This is an obvious
yellow-billed chick short period and then proceeding into the tunnel. statement for any captive species, but there are a
The male often flies onto the top of the mound number of special considerations in this case.
This male displays to his and surveys the surrounding area before he also
female within minutes of enters the nest. I think it may be quite cramped Diet
the nest box being placed inside if there is a large clutch. As the chicks A balanced diet of various millets, particularly white
in the aviary. Males square grow, my experience in the wild indicates that the millet with canary seed and a limited amount of
their shoulders, lifting their parents stop this process and instead enter the nest sunflower and the less fattening safflower, will be
wings away from the body independently of each other as room compromises adequate as a basic seed mix. This seed can, and
to highlight their golden the ability to feed their young. should, also be offered in a germinated form on a
wing patches regular basis, but particularly when breeding season
When chicks fledge, they are awkward in their approaches and during the raising of offspring.
512 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU ability to fly and again vulnerable to attack. The Seed should be soaked in water for approximately
parents tend to stay near the nest until the brood 24 hours, then rinsed thoroughly with clean water
and left to germinate for another 24 hours so that it
has fledged. Chicks are begins to sprout. It is more nutritious if the sprout is
difficult to see among just forming out of the seed casing.
the foliage as they await
their parents’ arrival Some breeders choose to use an additive to the
to be fed. They soon sprouting mix to reduce the build-up of fungus/
learn to fly with more bacteria which can be harmful to the birds. I have
precision and follow not found this necessary as I do not go over the
their parents around suggested times. If you have any doubts, just throw
in small family parties. the seed away and start again rather than taking any
After about 5–6 weeks risks. In summer I tend to reduce these times by half,
they are capable of as germination is faster during warm weather.
feeding themselves.
However, they stay for The use of hardboiled egg with Passwell’s Parrot
a considerable time Softfood is favoured by all my parrots and provides
accompanying their essential protein and amino acids. Vegetables in the
parents and learning the form of celery, baby spinach leaves and rocket, grated
ways of the wild from beetroot, parboiled carrot thinly sliced, and a thin
them. slice of apple are provided every day on a rotational
basis. The birds would tend to waste a lot of the food
It is unusual for and just eat their preference if it was offered all at
more than one clutch once. I also provide calcium by adding Passwell’s
to be reared by a pair Liquid Gold to their water on a regular basis—more
in a season. This is an often when chicks are being raised.
assumption on my part
as birds have not been A good quality mineral grit, with some small bits
banded until recently of charcoal, is regularly visited by most seed-eating
to evaluate if this species. Of course fresh water for drinking and
occurs. It is based on bathing is a must. Fresh gum branches with new
my experience breeding shoots for chewing, hanging and playing on provide
the species in captivity, where I allow my young a great activity and enrichment.
reasonable time to acquaint themselves with the
parents’ knowledge. Housing
The aviary is best built with square galvanised
IN CAPTIVITY tubing and weld mesh. A suspended aviary should
This strikingly beautiful and elegantly proportioned be at least 3m x 90cm wide x 120cm high. Golden-
species has been eagerly sought-after by shouldered Parrots would enjoy a 210cm high
aviculturists. Sadly, as already mentioned, it conventional aviary, as they are typical Australian

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

parrots which love to forage on the ground. A Golden-shouldered Parrot
Golden-shouldered Parrots are very swift flyers and pair shows interest in the
I would prefer a longer aviary to give them room to recently placed nest box
exercise.

One-quarter of the aviary is secure and covered
by Colorbond™ sheet and roof profile with
consideration for ventilation and cooling in our hot
summers. This area gives them privacy as well as
protection from the weather.

Breeding

I have frequently heard people say that this species

is difficult to breed. Invariably it comes down to the

nesting box provided, as the right conditions will

stimulate parrot breeding. In the case of antbed-

nesting species, we must offer a suitable alternative

to a termite mound as obviously this is a very

difficult proposition!

I have found that a wooden box with an internal the first week after hatching. The female then stops

dimension of 15cm wide, high and long is suitable. brooding as in the wild their environment is warm

To this is added a 15–20cm long entrance spout, just to hot for most of the year, and the termite mound

large enough for the birds to squeeze through—a itself has its own insulation from the heat and

50mm square seems suitable. This reflects what the cold. Consider the use of an insulated box in colder

birds achieve in building their nesting chamber in climates. Large clutches can be successful with

the wild and I have yet to find a pair that doesn’t chicks keeping each other warm in a huddle, but

respond to this compromise at the beginning of a smaller clutches or the very young on the outside

breeding season. In fact it is just wonderful to see will not fare well. A female is almost
the pair call excitedly while they explore the outside immediately active at the
of the box with animated visits and frontal head There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a pair

of birds next to their healthy offspring on a perch nest box entrance spout—a

feathers raised. once they fledge. The Golden-shouldered Parrot is no good compromise for the

The substrate at the bottom of the box is large exception to this as they are such slim and elegantly termite mounds these birds
choose as a wild nest site
marble-sized chunks of termite mound. Within a very marked birds.

short period this is chewed down to a coarse powder, Please Australia, let us all put in the effort to save

on which the clutch is laid. Please be aware that this this glorious species before we have another Paradise

species sits with its young for only approximately Parrot scenario.

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513VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

Golden Whistler male

AUTHOR & PHOTOS
ADAM FITZGERALD

Golden Whistler female THE GOLDEN WHISTLER
Pachycephala pectoralis is, in my opinion,
The one of Australia’s most melodic, stunning and
captivating species. They are common in rain and
PART 1 Eucalypt forests, more open scrub along the eastern
514 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU side of Australia, and around to the south-western
corner of Western Australia. They spend a lot of their
time high in the treetops and understorey shrubbery
where they hunt for a wide variety of insects.

In Canberra, the Golden Whistler is one of two local
species of this genus, the other being the Rufous
Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris. While both are
considered locally common, the Rufous is seen
more frequently in the suburbs. To see Goldens,
you usually need to visit our nature reserves,
the Australian National Botanic Gardens or the
surrounding Brindabella Ranges.

Aptly named, one of the most endearing traits of the
Golden Whistlers is their melodious song. These tunes
are sung almost non-stop during daylight hours from
August through until late December. Both sexes sing,
although the male is by far the more vocal of the two.
Their song is a succession of sharp whistles, with a
deeper two-toned crack at the end. When not singing,
the pair will use a high-pitched long tweet contact call.

They are generally solitary birds, with pairs coming
together for breeding. In the wild males defend their
territory quite vigorously from other males with lots
of singing and chasing of each other.

Golden STARTING OUT

My introduction to keeping Golden Whistlers was
not great. In February 2018 I bought a mature

female and one young, unsexed bird which, after

Whistler DNA sexing, turned out to also be female. I kept the
older of the two and moved the other on because
after a few weeks the younger female started to chase
the older one around.

It took me almost five months to locate and

purchase a male. He arrived, settled in very well and

both birds seemed to be getting along quite well.

Disaster struck not even two months later when he

was found dead on the floor with injuries to his beak

and forehead—perhaps a night-fright?

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

The hunt for a replacement male took another 6–7 Female Golden Whistler
months. The new male arrived February 2019 and with Wax-moth larvae
settled into the aviary quite well. Unfortunately, one
evening in late May 2019, a commotion was heard
in the aviary. We turned on the back garden lights
and could see the female in the front corner of the
flight, rolling around uncontrollably as though she
had suffered some sort of knock to the head or brain
injury. There was no way I could go into the aviary
to retrieve her without sending all the other aviary
birds into a mad night-fright, so all I could do was
leave all the garden lighting on and hope for the
best. As expected, she was found dead first thing the
next morning.

In keeping up with my run of bad luck, less than
three weeks after losing the female, after a sudden
and severe overnight thunderstorm, the remaining
male was found dead on the floor, soaked to the
bone. That put an end to me trying to keep Golden
Whistlers …or so I thought at the time!

A FRESH BEGINNING

Fast forward to August 2020. I heard a friend of mine

was moving on most of his softbills, including three

pairs of Golden Whistlers. I jumped at the chance

to have another crack with them. My friend’s only Male Golden Whistler
with a cricket
condition was that all three pairs must go at once.
Wild Rufous Whistler male,
After many calls and arrangements, it was agreed I Grassfinches, a pair of one of two local species

would collect all three pairs. I only had suitable space Peaceful Doves, Spinifex BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 515

for one pair, so arranged for the other two pairs to go Pigeons and a spare

to another friend’s collection in South Australia. female Little Button-

The birds arrived early September 2020, and quail. I have only once

the pair that was staying was initially set up in a seen any aggression

planted aviary 6m long x 2m wide x 2.4m high. They from the Whistlers to

shared this aviary with single pairs of White-browed other aviary occupants,

Woodswallows, Bourke’s Parrots, Purple-crowned and that was while

Lorikeets and a pair of Chaffinches. chicks were being raised.

My pair settled in very quickly and I was amazed A male Chaffinch was

(as with the previous birds I had kept) at how tame hunted off, but once he

and confiding they were from day one. They were had flown to a nearby

quite happy to hop around the shrubbery while I perch, the parents were

was in the aviary, or even sit on a perch less than a no longer concerned

metre away from me when I was standing outside about him.

the aviary.

The pair contact-called with each other quite often, DIET

but the male really didn’t sing much. After a few Surprisingly, contrary to popular belief, and like

weeks, I started to wonder if they were truly happy. most softbills, Golden Whistlers are easy to cater

They spent the bulk of their time in the shrubbery for, taking a wide variety of foods. Their main staple

less than a metre from the ground. They were is live food which, in order of preference, includes

feeding well, but generally seemed shyer than my crickets, moths (the furrier the better), mealworms,

previous birds, who spent a lot of their time at all maggots and fly pupae.

heights of the aviary. I started to suspect that while I breed my own crickets and maggots, have several

no direct aggression was seen, they were perhaps traps running each night to catch as many moths

being bullied or felt intimidated by the White-browed and flying insects as I can and, for convenience,

Woodswallows. On 31 October 2020, I decided to purchase mealworms in bulk. Most live food is

trap out the Whistlers and move them into the main provided in open, shallow bowls, but crickets are

planted finch aviary. fed out in a deep rectangular plastic tub, with two

The Whistlers’ new home is approximately 5m staggered perches within. This prevents the crickets

wide x 6m long x 2.4m tall. The front half is jumping out but enables the birds to hop down each

planted with a variety of native shrubs, including perch to reach them.

Callistemon, Melaleuca, Prosthanera, and several Supplementing the live food is a standard softbill

different types of softfood mix (consisting of premium lean mince,

grasses. Due to the lack of sufficient direct grated cheese and hard-boiled egg blended with

sunlight, the shelter half is planted with a few Wombaroo™ ‘yellow’ Insectivore powder), and a

small clumping bamboos and gardenias. The rear homemade crumbled cake-mix, (also with added

and side walls of the shelter are lined with clumps Insectivore powder). The crickets are raised on the

of artificial Christmas tree and clumps of dried Wombaroo™ ‘yellow’ as well, so they are naturally

Leptospernum brush. gut-loaded before being fed to the aviaries.

The Whistlers share this aviary with single Grit mixes, charcoal and fresh water are also always

pairs of Bourke’s Parrots, Chaffinches, Diamond available, although I never saw Golden Whistlers

Firetails, Pictorella Mannikins, two pairs of Masked showing interest in any of the grits.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Hatching chick, one prior) to which she had made a few renovations.
of the two eggs laid The Jacarini nest was made almost entirely of
coconut fibre. The Whistlers had built up the sides
Chicks at two days old a little more with coconut fibre to form a deeper,
more pronounced cup-shape, and the outside of the
nest was partially lined with coconut fibre held in
place with cobwebs. The nest was approximately
1.3m above the ground, in the middle of the shrub,
but slightly towards the outer branches. It was the
opposite side of the track to that I use to access the
flight, so perhaps that’s why I hadn’t discovered the
nest earlier.

While incubating, as usual, the male was singing
his head off all day long from sunrise until sunset.
During the late morning of 11 December, I noticed
he had become dead quiet. On approach to the aviary,
the female was seen flying around and feeding.
Entering the aviary to have a quick peek at the nest,
I saw the male, buried so deep within the nest that
only his tail and head protruded from the edges. He
only stayed for about 30 minutes before he swapped
out with the female. From this day on, he seemed to
take his turn at incubation 3–4 times a day, but only
for very short periods, obviously allowing the female
enough time to stretch, feed and bathe as she needed.

CURIOSITY WINS OUT

I was now torn between leaving the birds alone to

disturb them as little as possible, and yet wanting
to be able to document any captive breeding

attempts. (There is almost no information on captive
management of Golden Whistlers out there, let alone

any sort of breeding information).

After a day or two of being unable to confirm how

many eggs may be in the nest, one morning while

DID YOU KNOW…? BREEDING the male was incubating, I briefly played the call of a
Canberra and the surrounding Golden Whistler on my phone. The male instantly left

region has the richest bird Given that the Whistlers had not long arrived at my the nest and burst into song, flying up and down the
life of any Australian capital place, I honestly wasn’t expecting any sort of breeding front of the aviary as he went. This enabled me to zip
city, according to Canberra
Ornithologists Group (COG). activity until at least Spring 2021, (assuming I had into the aviary and have a peek in the nest.
managed to provide all of the right conditions that Being an open cup nest made this task a lot easier,
More than 200 species
have been recorded from made them happy enough to consider it). and I was so pleased to see two eggs. The eggs were
the emu to the smallest bird,
A few weeks after the Whistlers moved into the oval-shaped, about 20–25mm long and probably
the Weebill.
larger aviary, I noticed the male would often sit low 15mm in diameter, pale cream in colour with rusty-
NEXT
EDITION down within a shrub and make some very strange brown splotches over the wider end, and a few fine

I will share my and unusual calls. It is best described as a series of spots over the narrower end. I took a quick photo,
step-by-step
observations, soft trills, clicks and buzzes, all stitched together for then backed away. I stood in the shelter of the aviary
short bursts of 15–20 seconds before being repeated. to see what the parents would do. Within seconds,
carried out both
directly and via I could only assume this was a courtship song over a the female flew into the shrub about 40cm below
one of two CCTV
cameras installed territorial one? the nest, hopped up through the shrub and settled

in the aviary. During early December, I realised I hadn’t seen herself straight back onto her eggs—phew!

516 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU the female Whistler for a few days. My heart sank, Towards the later stages of incubation, I tried to

given my previous track record with them. When play the call again while the male was incubating, but

I thought about it, I hadn’t actually seen her since this time he refused to come off the nest, instead just

late afternoon on 5 December. I conducted a cursory bursting into song while remaining on it. Perhaps a

search of the aviary, hoping to usher her out of a positive sign, but it was quite amusing either way to
shrub, but was expecting to find her body on the see the leafy tips of the bush vibrating rapidly.

floor. Neither eventuated. A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS GIFT
A few days later, I still hadn’t seen her so, on 10

December, I decided to conduct a thorough search, About 9am on 24 December I was outside the

expecting to find her body stuck in the dried brush aviary watering the plants along the inside when

against the wall or similar. I started in one corner and the female Golden Whistler suddenly landed on the

gently worked my way around, carefully searching perch in front of me, with what looked like part of

each clump of brush, Christmas tree and growing an eggshell in her beak. The male was sitting on a

shrubs. I had just about given up when suddenly a nearby perch, singing his head off (as usual), so I

loud raucous screech came out of a native Prosanthera dropped the hose, zipped into the aviary to check

Mint Bush, in the middle of the aviary. I looked in only the nest and found a chick, its down still wet and
to find the female sitting tightly in a nest! To say I was the top half of its shell still covering its body. It took

gobsmacked was an understatement. another day or two before an opportunity presented

Interestingly, she had chosen an old Jacarini nest itself for me to inspect the nest again, revealing two

(the Jacarinis had been moved on a few months healthy chicks.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

The Willie Wagtail is an AUTHOR KIT PRENDERGAST BA BSc (Hons) PhD
immediately recognisable
fantail, with its tuxedo of black about birds...
plumage and white chest

PHOTO WATTLEBIRD

TheLovableWILLIE
WAGTAIL

ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC AND Kit
charismatic of Australian suburban birds is
the Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys. Willie The Willie Wagtail is the
Wagtails are passerines—the largest group of avifauna, largest species of Australian
distinguished by having three toes forward and one fantail—note the three
backward (‘perching birds’) and for their ability to sing. forward facing and one
Willie Wagtails have a number of vocalisations and can backward facing toes, a
even be considered ‘chatty’. Those who wake at dawn characteristic of passerines
are probably greeted by the melodious repertoire of the
local Willie Wagtail—voted #6 in Australia’s Top 40 Bird PHOTO KIT PRENDERGAST
Songs Chart. They even sing lullabies through the night,
especially on moonlit nights. BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 517

Also frequently heard is the Wagtail’s alarm call,
described as a rapid chit-chit-chit-chit, and likened by the
Father of Australian Ornithology John Gould to the ‘small
cog wheels of a steam mill’. The alarm call is emitted
when potential threats encroach upon the Willy Wagtail’s
territory—be they predators or rivals. The call is both a
deterrent and a danger warning.

DESCRIPTION the black head plumage when a bird is calm, but
when excited (sexually) their white eye markings flare.
Willie Wagtails are one of over 20 species in the genus They will also flare their eye markings in aggressive
Rhipidura, which are small (12.5–21cm long) birds with displays when encountering rivals encroaching upon
long, fan-like tails. Unlike many Rhipidura, they are their territory.
commonly found foraging at ground level. They are the
largest and most well-known Australian fantail, measuring Males and females are indistinguishable (monomorphic).
20cm long and weighing on average 20g. Younger birds are similar in appearance to adults but have
paler, slightly rusty edges to the wing feathers.
Willie Wagtails are immediately recognisable, with a
tuxedo of black plumage and a white chest. They also
have a white ‘eyebrow’ marking which is hidden under

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

HABITAT adaptive for? Or is it a spandrel—a by-product of the

The Willie Wagtail is a highly adaptable bird and unlike evolution of some other characteristic rather than a direct

many birds in Australia, is actually undergoing a population product of adaptive selection.

increase. This is attributed to land use modifications Hypothesised adaptive functions to explain the wagging

making areas suitable for the species. They prefer open tail include assisting in balance, providing an intraspecific

habitats, avoiding wet sclerophyll forests and rainforests or interspecific signalling function, or serving to flush

(which are being cleared largely for agriculture, with cryptic insects from the ground. The latter function has

devastating effects on more vulnerable forest-specialist been tested empirically. It can be predicted that insects

birds). Open woodlands are a preferred habitat, and they are flushed out after being startled due to differences in

are often associated with water courses. Willie Wagtails light intensity caused by the tail wagging. Therefore, birds

are most numerous in grasslands with low canopy cover wagging their tails more frequently and in bright sunlight,

and are frequently encountered in suburban habitats such where the rapid shadows cause greater contrast, are more

as urban parks. likely to flush insects. A study found that Wagtails foraging

The Willie Wagtail occurs across mainland Australia but in sunlight wagged their tails at less than half the rate of

appears to only be a vagrant in Tasmania. It also occurs birds foraging in shade or on overcast days. It was also

outside of Australia, in New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, found that Wagtails preferred to forage in direct sunlight,

the Bismarck Archipelago and the Moluccas. again lending support to tail-wagging being used to flush

out insects.

DIET

Willie Wagtails are generalist insectivores and pursuit BEHAVIOUR

predators, chasing aerial insects on the wing. They will These birds are small but gutsy. Pairs will defend their

also forage insects on the ground, and often use perches territory by engaging in a ‘diving display’. One bird remains

as vantage points to scan for insects. Studies in woodland still while the other dives and loops repeatedly, before

areas have found average prey size is 7–8mm, although the roles are reversed. All the while both birds emit their

Wagtails will also take on relatively massive prey, some defensive chit-chit-chit-chit call.

over 20mm. I have seen Wagtails successfully catch They go for the rear of a potential predator, rather

dragonflies almost the than the head, to avoid possible injury to themselves.

same size as the bird’s body Protective parents can be seen mobbing ravens or crows

length (no mean feat given which get too close to their nest. It is not uncommon for

the amazing visual and flight people to build friendships with their resident Wagtails

capabilities of dragonflies). and, after earning their trust, you may be lucky enough

The bird did seem to have to have one perch on you! They are inquisitive, not shy

some difficulty in consuming and will feed and even nest in close proximity to human

its catch— ‘beaking’ off activity.

more than it could chew?

Willie Wagtails consume BREEDING

a diversity of prey items. In line with their intelligence and minimal sexual

One study recorded 29 dimorphism, Willie Wagtails are strongly monogamous

families of insects from bird and mate for life. Mated pairs co-ordinate activities

droppings. Prey included and defend their territories of about 1–2ha year-round

butterflies, moths, flies, (most intensely during breeding season). A study on the

beetles, dragonflies, bugs, nesting habits of pairs in Victoria over four years found

spiders, centipedes, and that both birds made fairly equal contributions to all

millipedes. A study on the aspects of parental care, however the female somewhat

diet of a breeding pair in predominated care of the fledgling whereas the male was

suburban Western Australia most eager to initiate new nesting attempts.

found that the proportion During the breeding period nestlings were fed eight

of different insect orders times per hour, increasing to 12–14 times per hour later

varied seasonally, but overall in their development. Territorial intrusions by conspecifics

wasps, ants and beetles and potential predators occurred about once every

were major components of hour. Willie Wagtails are not to be trifled with and have

the diet. been reported driving away Magpies Gymnorhina tibicen,

Willie Wagtails often Brown Hawks Falco berigora, Laughing Kookaburras Dacelo

The Willy Wagtail fans and hang around people on novaeguineae and even Wedge-tailed Eagles Aquila audax
wags its tail side to side at
variable rates while foraging walks, as well as livestock and grazing kangaroos to take —Australia’s largest bird of prey! They have also been

PHOTO PETER ODEKERKEN advantage of insects disturbed by these larger animals observed defending their territory against Tiger Snakes

518 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU moving. They are highly intelligent and have even been Notechis scutatus and the Southwestern Snake-necked

observed to intentionally startle horses to stir up insects Turtle Chelodina colliei.

in the grass to depredate. Given horses were introduced Breeding season occurs from July to December in

to Australia, this represents innovative cognitive problem- Australia, and often occurs after rain in more dry regions

solving as opposed to an inbuilt behavioural sequence. of the continent. Up to four broods can be raised in

Willie Wagtails also lend livestock a hand by removing and succession in a single season. The nests are cup-like

consuming ticks, and have even been observed picking structures, often built in a tree branch, but sometimes

ticks off a lion’s back at a zoo! in rafters, eaves or clothes hoists. They are built to

withstand the elements, and are tightly woven structures

THE TALE OF THE TAIL comprising strips of bark, grass stems and other fibrous

Now, we must get to this bird’s most distinctive feature— material, bound together with spider web.

the wagging tail. The splendid fan tail is wagged side to Willie Wagtails will line the nest with soft material

side in a horizontal plane at variable rates while foraging such as feathers and have even been known to take hair

on the ground. The function of this behaviour has puzzled from goats, sheep, alpacas, and dogs. (My resident Willie

ornithologists. Is it an adaptive trait and, if so, what is it Wagtails have no doubt taken advantage of the masses

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

of fluffy hair my Maremma sheepdog sheds.) Nests
may be used in successive years but in other cases the
old nest will be destroyed, and its materials recycled in
construction of a new nest.

The female lays 2–4 cream-white eggs with brownish
markings. Eggs measure just 16mm x 21mm and hatch
after two weeks of incubation. The chicks hatch at an
altricial stage, small, naked, blind and helpless. Fledging
occurs at about two weeks of age, by which time parents
stop feeding them. Fledglings will initially stay close to the
nest, remaining hidden in vegetative cover for the first 1–2
days before venturing further. Eventually parents will evict
them and drive them out of the territory.

NOT WITHOUT THREATS

Willie Wagtails have to deal with brood parasites—

cuckoo birds. Female Pallid Cuckoos Cacomantis pallidus

lay their nests in Willie Wagtail nests. However, their

attempts often fail since the hosts outsmart them,

recognising the eggs are dissimilar and ejecting them.

Although they are generalists and adaptable, Wagtails

are not completely immune to environmental threats,

including practices that lead to loss of insects, their prey

items, which can impact populations. This was the case

in the 1970s where blanket spraying for Argentine Ants

Linepithema humile in Perth caused a rapid decline in Willie

Wagtails. Fortunately, their population has rebounded. The cup-shaped nest often
built in a tree branch
eggs, comparing the needs of the baby birds with that of comprises strips of bark,
grass stems and other
THE HUMAN CONNECTION human babies, theorising embryonic development, tracking fibrous material bound tightly
with spider web
Willie Wagtails appear to have had a long association with the chicks’ developmental progress, and photographing
PHOTO MARTY HALL
humans. Always flitting around humans, it can appear and creating artworks of the nest and birds. Such
BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 519
they are eavesdropping on us. Aboriginal tribes in parts enriching learning experiences could (and should) easily be

of south-eastern Australia, such as the Ngarrindjeri of part of many school programs.

the Lower Murray River, and the Narrunga People of the There is no doubt Australians have a soft spot for this

Yorke Peninsula, regard the Willie Wagtail as the bearer common passerine, voted #7 in the 2013 BirdLife ‘Top

of bad news (poor birds!). Other tribes believed them to of the Pops’. The Willie Wagtail’s short but feisty nature

be eavesdroppers, stealing secrets and seeing them as liars and dedication to defending its nest against the most

and tattletales. People of the Kimberly also regard Willie formidable of predators clearly won the nation’s heart.

Wagtails with unease, believing the birds would inform Their inquisitive and comic nature and moonlight serenades

the spirit of a recently deceased person if living relatives also appear to have led to the Wagtail’s popular appeal.

spoke badly of them. However, they also recognised the

intelligence of Willie Wagtails, venerating them as the REFERENCES

most intelligent of all animals. Goodey, W & Lill, A 1993, ‘Parental care by the Willie

Willie Wagtails also occur in New Guinea, where Wagtail in southern Victoria’, Emu, vol. 93, no. 3, pp.

they again featured in the folklore of local tribes. The 180–187.

Kalam people of the New Guinea Highlands deemed the Adriano, S & Calver, MC 1995, ‘Diet of breeding Willie

Willie Wagtail a good bird, believing that if it came and Wagtails Rhipidura leucophrys in suburban Western

chattered when a new garden was being tilled, it would Australia’, Emu, vol. 95, no. 2, pp. 138–141.

lead to good crops. Barker, RD & Vestjens, WJM 1990, The Food of Australian

Today they are regarded as loveable larrikins by many Birds, Vol. 2—Passerines, CSIRO, Melbourne.

Australians, and Willie Wagtails have been featured in Delgado-V, CA & Correa-H, JC 2013, ‘An Unusual

Australian children’s literature, including Dot and the Foraging Tactic of the Willie Wagtail’, The Wilson Journal

Kangaroo (1899), Blinky Bill Grows Up (1935), and even of Ornithology, vol. 125, no. 4, pp. 846—848. doi: https://

a book dedicated to them, Willie Wagtail and Other doi.org/10.1676/13-057.1

Tales (1929). Gould, SJ & Lewontin, R 1979, ‘The Spandrels of San

Their ubiquity and boldness has meant that Willie Marco and the Panglossian Paradigm: A Critique of

Wagtails have recently been part of a novel childhood the Adaptationist Program’, Proceedings of the Royal

learning experience. A report conducted over nine Society of London, vol. 205, no. 1161, pp. 581–598.

months by Murdoch University reported how a chance Bibcode:1979, RSPSB.205.581G, doi:10.1098/

encounter with Willie Wagtails by school children led to rspb.1979.0086, PMID 42062, S2CID 2129408

a project based around the student-centred, self-guided Gould, SJ 1997, ‘The exaptive excellence of spandrels

and experiential Reggio Emilia teaching method. Students as a term and prototype’, Proceedings of the National

were enamoured by a pair of Willie Wagtails interrupting Academy of Sciences USA, vol. 94, no. 20, pp. 10750–

a morning meeting. Inspired, they installed a long branch 10755. Bibcode:1997PNAS...9410750G, doi:10.1073/

outside the classroom to provide a perch and, to their pnas.94.20.10750,

delight, the Wagtail pair built a nest. The teacher installed Jackson, J & Elgar, MA 1993, ‘The foraging behaviour of the

a camera to video the nesting activity from a ‘bird’s eye Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys: Why does it wag its

view’ and initiate multimedia communications. Students tail? Emu, vol. 93, no. 4, pp. 284–286.

tracked the nesting progress and engaged with local Hesterman, S 2010, ‘The Willie Wagtail Tale: ICT,

community and ornithologists. Learning experiences multiliteracies and community connections’, AARE

included tallying the number of times adults sat on the Conference 2010, University of Melbourne, Victoria.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

pet parrot behaviour Pet parrots can develop an
AUTHOR & PHOTOS HILLARY HANKEY expectation of constant tactile
attention. This can manifest
in problem behaviours in
the future, with complex and
lengthy solutions

Over-cuYddloiunrg Parrot

IN THE LAST ISSUE, WE TALKED adjunctive behaviours. In many cases these parrots were
about the joy of getting a new baby parrot. We have the product of the ‘purchasing un-weaned so we can
such a fresh slate to build important behaviours, bond’ era of parrot companionship, which proliferated in

and it can feel like a huge responsibility. Some babies, like the 1990s.

macaws and cockatoos, are particularly ‘smoochy’ and The truth is, while some type of puppy-like behaviour is

lend themselves well to gentle puppy-like play, head and somewhat normal in pre-fledged nestling parrots in the

tummy rubs, and even idle snuggles while we watch the wild, most of our interactions aren’t typical. And while

tube or work at our desks. Indeed, this seems to elicit soft many parrot species do spend an extended juvenile stage

groans of pleasure and contentment. What better way to learning from their parents before starting their own

cement the human-animal connection? families, the way that our close immersive family units

Unfortunately, these activities early in our relationship are with them is not particularly natural. What would be

with our baby parrots are setting us both up for massive natural is for them to be learning with their parents and

problems down the road. In this article I am going to get spending time apart as well. And while our goal need not

‘granular’ on those challenges, why we see so many people be, nor could it possibly be, to replicate their relationships

doing them, and how we can interact with our parrots for in the wild, parrots are capable of adapting given the right

long-term success that is mutually beneficial. parameters, so it is important to understand what certain

habits lead to for them.

A TOUCH TOO MUCH

What we are referring to specifically is overall body WE NEED TO TEACH LIFE SKILLS

touching—under-wing rubs, prolonged (more than 10 It is generally normal for us humans to want to smooch,

seconds) head-rubbing, flipping over on the back and cuddle, and in general be quite tactile with objects, animals

playing with the parrot’s stomach and beak-wrestling. This and even other humans. I spend my career orchestrating

often leads to the parrot going into what I have termed a connections and fostering support for conservation

Hillary very floppy state, scratching its own head, standing on its programs through free-flight programs. My encounters with
wing, fluffed head feathers, head-bobbing, wing-flipping or the general public and the birds I work with range from
baby-begging for an extended period of time. Sometimes the toddler racing up with the pudgy outstretched arm to
these reactions are prompted simply by the vicinity of a the glaring falcon, to the awestruck strong, silent type who

human friend or mere eye contact. sheepishly asks ‘Can I pet your owl?’—and I can tell you

Larger parrots lend themselves to these kinds of petting that petting things is how we interact with our world.

interactions. I have worked with a few Blue and Gold So me telling people not to smooch a macaw, who

Macaws that, even raised with their siblings and with wants nothing more than to stick its feet in the air and

minimal handling, had a prolonged state of baby behaviour be doted on for hours, doesn’t exactly make me your

in which they were quite floppy. I have also seen several popular neighbourhood parrot behaviour consultant. Me

teenage macaws of various species that were raised from saying, ‘you’ll be calling me in a couple of years,’ isn’t the

day one by humans that continued some maladaptive, successful warning signal I wish it was either.

Double T Bird Harnesses What exactly is the harm in snuggling parrots for long
periods of time, creating these ‘puddles’ of macaws

Take your tame companion or sooky cockatoos that are babies and desirous of
bird outside safely. our attention? As a behaviour consultant, I have long
maintained that babies of any species naturally take more
Proudly Australian Made SIZES attention as they don’t have a lot of life skills. But that is
the important nuance to recognise: they need life skills, and
Ph Pam or Margaret TO FIT it is our job to provide them. To associate our presence
ABK© with the opportunity to snuggle most of the time is not
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[email protected] TO MACAWS

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520 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

So, is the answer then to just refrain from all snuggling,
like a complete killjoy? Are we only bound to a five-
second head rub—‘One Mississippi, two Mississipi….’?
Who is going to do that? While it is generally better to
stick with brief and infrequent head scritches to avoid pair
bonding, there are a few things that we can do when our
young birds are in their baby phase and enjoy more silly
rolling on the back behaviour.

FINDING THE BALANCE

First, we want to keep in mind to avoid general rough-

housing, beak play and, if it does lead to overexcitement, What do you do
if your parrot
stop puppy-like behaviour immediately and seek to avoid already has a
strong pair bond
it in the future. Second, we can pair this kind of play time or is desirous of
tactile reinforcers?
with more positive outcomes, while having the parrot let This is where the
fun building of
The occasional cuddle is not an illicit event, but rather us play and manipulate feet, wings, and even tail feathers skills to reset those
one that should not be solicited every time the bird is very gently. We will also use this time to gently do brief expectations begins
in our presence chest palpations and towel work, all the while pairing with
STAY
positive tactile interactions that will allow us to set the
TUNED
setting our birds up for success. In fact, it is creating groundwork for fear-free veterinary procedures as the
From an early age,
complicated patterns for a future of inappropriate and parrot grows up. teaching young parrots to
seek external environmental
confusing pair bonding which is not healthy. This further It is very important that we stay within the parrot’s activities, while receiving
ambient attention when
proliferates that concept that parrots are one-person birds comfort level so that we don’t end up sensitising them to we are with them,
will provide important
and incapable of having relationships with others. these interactions, and that we also maintain this kind of information and habits

work as the bird grows up to stay consistent.

AN UNNATURAL PAIR BOND Finally, balance these interactions with toy play and

The other problem with creating a highly tactile ambient attention. What this means is that every time

relationship with young parrots is that it can lead to them you walk into the parrot’s space, you don’t always give it

seeking automatically reinforcing behaviours (often called direct, tactile attention. You can reinforce a soft contact

self-reinforcing behaviours in the lay community). What call or just pass through. Your presence does not always

this means is that by offering snuggles, cuddles, scritches, have to mean that something will happen. Life can keep

and scratches regularly, we create patterns and habits in going as the parrot is playing with its toys or chewing

their behaviour that become lasting expectations. on his food. We want to make sure that we are not

The flood of feel-good hormones that comes with these interrupters of good behaviour.

interactions can conceivably become triggered at the

slightest hint of cues, such as a visual cue (they see us)

or audio cues (we return home). In the absence of the

outcome, we usually offer them (those delicious rubs),

they achieve it themselves or could potentially intensify

seeking behaviours to achieve the desired outcome.

The truth of the matter is that a pair bond with our

parrots is neither healthy, humane, nor appropriate for

us to foster for the decades of lifespan we intend to

share with our parrots. It is a far richer existence for us

to support strong relationships with multiple household

members. Not only is this safer and less stressful for

the humans, but it also means the parrot won’t feel

it needs to defend its partner vigorously against all

perceived threats.

While it may seem funny to us when a 1kg parrot goes

charging after a 68kg interloper, the sense of obligation

the parrot feels is very real, and we cannot understate the

biological drive that is pushing him or her to do so.

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521VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

hookbill hobbyist Lessons fromOur Parrots
AUTHOR EB CRAVENS PHOTOS JADE WELCH
BIRD KEEPERS HAVE FOR A LONG TIME Water is essential—
been analysing and discussing all the ways we can Black-headed Caiques
mould and train our psittacine pets, form in them enjoy bathing and preening
good behaviours and nutritious eating habits, teach them (above) and Superb Parrot
tricks and the human language and how to be lovingly at a water source
affectionate. But how many of us have sat down and thought
about the myriad of things that our parrots teach us?

As is so true with any human/animal relationship, having
an intelligent and respected pet bird in one’s home is
guaranteed to broaden one’s practical and sociological
horizons. In short, being around my Amazons, Cockatiels
and conures, my pet Poicephalus and mini-macaw, even my
neighbour’s cockatoo, causes me to expand my knowledge
not merely of parrots but of life in general.

Here are some of the most important lessons I have
gleaned from a 40-year association with many psittacine
species of all shapes and sizes…

Major Mitchell’s and respected my hookbills’
Short-billed Corella preening wish to practice the daily
routine nature dictates.
Siestas during the afternoon,
for example, and rising just
after first light among the
freshness and sounds of a
new day can also be ours
for the taking.

TIME TO YOURSELF

Sometimes it is nice to stay

hidden, remain silent, and
just watch the world go by

Eb If you have ever observed
one of your pets spending
522 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU
DIET time inside thick foliage
in a cage or tree, you
will know that noisiness, busy activity and drawing

Your health improves when you eat more raw, green and attention to oneself are not necessarily the ways of the

fresh foods daily psittacine. Seeing others before one is seen can be very

I have seen so many overweight, lethargic, presumably educational—watching and waiting—whether in a treetop
dull-witted Amazons, cockatoos, Pionus, etc respond perch or at a crowded cocktail party!

positively to a change in diet to live sprouted and salad-like
foodstuffs that it has become natural for April and I to A GOOD HEAD SCRATCH

evolve our own diets to include more raw vegies, organic Just as we enjoy a massage, so do parrots enjoy preening

fruits and such. Parrots that learn to eat lightly become around the back of the nape and all about the crown, and

more active—and so do humans. over the eyes and back of the ears, ruffling the feathers in

soft flowing motions.

WAKING HOURS

Go to sleep when it is dark, wake up at dawn. Take a STAY ALERT
nap every day Keep all your senses alert at the same time

Behaviour advice for stressed or misbehaving psittacines Did you ever try this? It is not at all easy, attempting to

often includes instruction about the importance of listen to the chorus outside the window, with the radio

a sound, full night’s sleep for our pets. I have always humming music, while reading the morning paper, tasting

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

your cup of tea, and feeling the cotton chair cushion THE ENVIRONMENT

beneath you and the breeze wafting in from the far Environmental influences often overshadow instincts

window, not to mention your own heart beating—many It is sad to see a cloistered, cage-bound older parrot

senses at once. Being ‘birdie alive’, I call it, is a potential we sometimes abandon its inherited instincts in order to

homo sapiens all possess yet only a few ever accomplish. persist in its life of captivity. ‘Eat the foods, stay on the

perch, keep your voice down, don’t chew, don’t bite,

MOVING HOME, EMOTIONS & STRESS obey your owner’, it tells itself. Survival at all costs is

Moving home can be traumatic a strong motivation. That does not mean the original

Moving to a new house, moving cages or changing instinct is completely dead. I have seen it reincarnate in

neighbourhoods or owners is all stressful, painful, and many a rehabilitated parrot, but providing an imaginative

altogether inconvenient for most living creatures, and for environment is the key.

birds it all too often makes little sense.

Water is a gift from above

Jealousy comes in all shapes and sizes It nourishes, soothes and cleanses all within its touch. Ask

In parrots (as in people) jealousy is spontaneous in any Amazon, lorikeet, any large macaw or healthy crested

appearance, angry, relentless, and dangerous in its cockatoo. They lift their feathers and wings when drops

manifestations. Parrots will go green with jealousy—no are washing them clean.

pun intended—on the spur of the moment, and attack Providing out-of-cage
time provides support
and bite. Why then, do so many humans keep asking if BODY LANGUAGE & FLIGHT for any pet to enjoy their
environment
birds have emotions? Body language is everything
PHOTO EB CRAVENS
Move with caution. Watch everything. Be careful about
Body language in this
Stressed out or nervous parrots may turn to overeating eye contact, feel vibrations, avoid meanness and temper, Orange-winged Amazon
maybe warns us of a
or self-mutilation to channel excess energies feel the feet and thigh muscles, the pupil reactions, wing potential aggression issue
or is it just an acceptable
Just like in human fingernail-chewing or self-induced flaps, trembling and erection of feathers. Parrots are behaviour in this genus/
species? Who is talking?
starvation/obesity, once the habit has settled in, it becomes masters of true non-verbal communication.
BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 523
self-perpetuating. Sometimes a treatment of total positive

life change will solve the problem, but often the bad habit ’Tis a grander compliment to coax a bird onto your

is merely brought along into the new life situation. finger than to command it to do so.

Those aviculturists who have planted flights with captive

PARTNERS AND FRIENDS parakeets, finches, canaries and softbills know well this

Mating is for life teaching, as do those of us who have parent-raised and

Wow, this teaching seems to come slowly for humans, what fledged psittacines, then kept them so that they come to

with the divorce rate where it is! Not all psittacines hold trust us. We have learned this thrilling lesson. There are

to this custom within their flocks. And even the ones who even backyard birdwatchers who have had hummingbirds

do still have their days of pecking and sparring, squawking, or other passerines land on them like they are St Francis

bickering, and ignoring each other on the perch. However, of Assisi. There is no ‘up’ command ever spoken—it might

most parrots never seem to lose respect for one another— scare the birds away!

it is all just part of the mating ritual—no reason to panic or

get mad and split up. It’s not worth it, starting all over and FLY WHILE YOU CAN

sleeping without a warm, feathery body nearby. Learn to jump and swing and fly when you are young

Parrots teach us that it is right and proper to trust our because the older you get, the more conservative may get

intuition. Getting along with fellow living beings is hard This is precisely why every handfed pet psittacine should

enough without doing it falsely or with contrived guile—all be fledged completely when they are young, impulsive and

within the realm of respectful politeness, of course. somewhat devil-may-care and in love with speed. We do

not trim wing feathers because after this fledging period, if

Even those who do not like each other overly much will a bird loses this window of learning opportunity, he or she

have sex and make babies will never again be at that body mass, light and courageous

Much of successful bird breeding in this country and time of life.

abroad is based upon this life lesson. Once or twice a year

when the urge comes upon them, even unfriendly avian NEVER STOP LEARNING

pairs can set aside differences in a passionate display of You are never too old to learn

copulation and propagation of offspring. This is one area Show me a parrot that you believe has stopped learning,

where that tenet about the need for positive environment and I will prove the assumption false. It’s the same with

and instinct does not seem to hold firm. us keepers. Losing the desire to learn new things is a

different matter entirely. May none of us ever reach

FAMILY such a point of age or growth. Being a bird/

In a family, parental duties are generally shared animal keeper should never be mundane

Interesting how this works with shared sitting on eggs, and lack stimulus for our charge.

shared feeding, caring and teaching when youngsters begin

to emerge into the big wide world. Raising birds takes THE CIRCLE OF LIFE

two, although in some avian relationships it is a maternal And finally, even the dearest

versus paternal primary role that dominates rearing. In friend, the closest relative,

fact, we now know that as they grow up, it frequently pet, or cherished lover must

takes a whole community of supporting helpers. pass away. Be like the birds

we keep, grieve, and move

Males and females can be very different from the on. Life continues for

youngest of ages, and they know it those of us who remain—

Our pets and breeders, even before chicks wean from it is our lot and honour

parents, become very aware of which is male and which is to live it. Enjoy the gift

female. Never assume your parrots cannot tell the difference of keeping and relating to

between sexes of their own kind and other animal species. your birds.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

avian health with dr bob Household Hazards
AUTHOR & PHOTOS DR BOB DONELEY BVSc FANZCVS (Avian Medicine) CMAVA
for Pet Birds

IN THE NEARLY 40 YEARS I HAVE BEEN
treating birds, I have seen hundreds with health
problems caused by their environment. Their human
companions are often shocked (and horrified) when they
discover that their bird has been exposed to a hazard in
their own home. Often it is a hazard they were not aware
of. Birds, in many ways, are like toddlers, capable of finding
new ways of hurting themselves as soon as we turn our
backs on them for even a moment!

In this article I want to show you some of the hazards
that are right there in your house that you may not even
know are there.

POISONS

There are many different poisons in our homes. Some, Alexandrine Parrot beak
like fly sprays and rat poison, would seem to be obvious. injury caused by hitting
However, many owners do not recognise the threat they
a ceiling fan

constitute to their pets. Rat poison, in particular, is very

palatable to a parrot. It often comes in a box—hardly a KITCHENS

challenge to a parrot’s beak—and is stored up high to Kitchens are a surprisingly dangerous place for pet birds.

keep it out of reach (… except that birds can fly). Even though our birds enjoy human company, the kitchen

There are many other pesticides and herbicides that can is one part of the house that they should be always

harm or kill your bird, so great care must be taken to lock excluded from. Some of the hazards include:

these away in a parrot-proof cupboard. Also be aware • Companion birds are very sensitive to air contaminants.

that some of these poisons may have a residual effect in Whatever they breathe in goes through their bodies

the environment and can be dangerous even weeks after very quickly. This sensitivity, coupled with their small size,

their use in the house. makes it especially dangerous for birds to be in the kitchen

Lead and zinc are poisons known as heavy metals. when you are cooking. Cooking utensils can be dangerous

While not as common in houses today, they are still if overheated. Teflon™ and other non-stick cookware

definitely out there. Lead was used in paint, battery (containing polytetrafluoroethylene) can release fumes and

terminals, solder, lead shot, fishing sinkers, cosmetic particles that may be harmful (and often fatal) to birds.

jewellery, and even bird toys. Zinc is used as galvanising In addition, birds are highly sensitive to a variety of

to rustproof, especially on cage wire. Both are very toxic, other gases, such as aerosol sprays, non-stick sprays,

causing vomiting, excessive thirst and urination, and spray starch, perfumes, smoke, self-cleaning ovens and

sometimes seizures. natural gas. Always turn the exhaust fan on or open a

Lead can be a slow-acting poison. A bird can take in a window before cooking. It is important to make sure

small amount over days, weeks, or months until there is that your kitchen is properly ventilated. Even if your bird

enough in its body to cause problems. Zinc is more of an is not in the kitchen, these fumes and gases can spread

acute poisoning, resulting from eating a large amount of through a house or unit very quickly.

zinc flakes in one sitting. Both require urgent veterinary • Never leave your bird with hot pans unattended, even

care. for a few minutes. I have seen birds land in saucepans of

Other poisons such as naphthalene moth balls, which hot oil, causing such severe burns that the bird dies. If

may seem relatively harmless, can be deadly if eaten. Some your bird is out of its cage, he/she might come too close

plants, fruits and vegetables—such as avocados, garlic and to the hot plate and suffer severe burns to the feet.

onion—can also be quite dangerous. • Toxic items such as cleaners, pesticides, mothballs, and

both prescription and over-the-counter medications

ELECTRICITY should be stored out of your bird’s reach. Some cleaning

Dr Bob It should not be a surprise to anyone that electricity can agents may cause mild stomach upset, but others can

524 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU be dangerous, but birds still get access to electrical cords cause severe burns to a bird’s tongue, mouth, and crop.

and appliances. Apart from the risk of electrocution, • Keep your bird away from food and drinks that could

there is a real danger to both people and property if a be dangerous. These include avocados, onions, garlic,

house is not fitted with appropriate safety devices such chocolate (in any form), coffee, tea, salt, soft drinks,

as circuit breakers. alcohol, and mouldy or spoiled foods.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

Amputated wing caused
by a Currawong attack

• Protect your bird from kitchen stresses such as rapid it and attacked it. At the end of the day, dogs and cats

changes in temperature and high traffic flow. Each time are predators and birds are a prey species. Unexpected

you cook, the temperature of the kitchen increases movement or a playful nip by a bird can trigger an attack

and then returns to normal. The repeated change in and, given the differences in size, this rarely ends well for

temperature could cause discomfort to your bird. the bird. All dog and cat bites should be treated as an

• You probably have not thought about it, but the flow of emergency as the bacteria in their mouths can cause fatal

people in and out of the kitchen is often high compared septicaemia in less than a day.

to other rooms in the house. This high traffic flow can Attacks by wild birds are common, especially when birds

cause stress which could lead to behaviour problems in are left unattended on a veranda or pergola. Butcher

some birds. birds seem to regard Budgies and Cockatiels in a cage as

• Kitchen appliances can be dangerous, especially if your a drive-through takeaway. Scalping injuries, broken wings

bird can fly. Dangerous appliances include stove tops and and legs, and even wings and legs physically ripped from

hot plates, open ovens, toasters, kettles, boiling water the body can be the result. The moral is never to leave

in the sink, and hot cooking oil. Birds can also get cuts your bird unattended outdoors.

from sharp objects and could potentially drown in a sink Another common injury is the result of fights between BASIC
HEALTH
or even a small bowl of water. pet birds, often of different sizes. Poor socialising skills & DISEASE
IN BIRDS
• Butter, margarine and vegetable oils can get onto your and an inability to get away from each other can lead
By Dr Michael Cannon
bird’s feathers, matting them and possibly exposing skin. to physical conflict that rarely happens in the wild. Beak
112 Colour Pages
This can cause a sudden change to your bird’s body injuries seem to be the most common damage, and I have Featuring Infectious and
Non-infectious Diseases
temperature, leaving them open to a chill. seen the upper beak ripped right off. and Ailments in Parrots,

• Be careful using fly spray, rat poison, and cockroach baits Finches, Canaries
and Pigeons
in the kitchen. Make sure they are safely locked away out CHILDREN
Available from
of reach, and never spray any aerosol around your bird. Small children interacting with comparatively fragile birds ABK at

can be disastrous. They can step on them, drop them, www.birdkeeper.com.au
or see Free Mail
WINDOWS AND FANS frighten them into doing unexpected things, and even lie Order Card

I have seen dozens of birds that have collided with a down on top of them! Great care needs to be taken to

moving ceiling fan or a closed window. The damage ensure that when children and birds are interacting, they

caused ranges from stunning to fractured beaks and skulls. are closely supervised.

Wherever possible, draw a curtain across any closed

window and turn off the fan in a room before allowing a CONCLUSION

bird free flight outside its cage. Your house can be surprisingly dangerous for your bird.

There are many risks inside your doors that you may not

OTHER ANIMALS have considered. I hope that reading this article makes you

It often surprises people that their dog or cat ‘who more aware of just some of the potential dangers that

always got along with the bird’ has suddenly turned on modern living presents for our birds.

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525VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021 BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU •

the wise owl Managing Pastures for
AUTHOR & PHOTOS DR MILTON LEWIS BSc (Hons) PhD
Grassland Birds

THE WORLD IS A FUNNY PLACE AND A large number of people are exploring rotational farming
for some reason certain things become icons methods where animals are moved in quite large numbers
and draw all the attention. Koalas or places like through paddocks after a few days or weeks, determined

rainforest are always in the news, but imagine what the by ground cover (vegetation versus bare ground). Please

world would be like without grasslands. remember this is a generalisation and for the ‘cell grazing

Our aviaries are stocked with birds that in many and crash grazing’ communities I apologise. (Cell grazing

instances only inhabit grasslands, or at the very least involves time-controlled grazing, heavily stocking small

savanna woodlands that have an understorey dominated paddocks for short periods before a long spelling, while

by grass. Pure native grasslands in New South Wales are crash grazing is short-duration grazing used to control

now so rare that many scientists consider them extinct. introduced weed grasses and promote natives.) I even know

The paddocks of grass you see from the car are just sad a few farmers that have completely removed all their fencing

reminders of a better past and are now predominately and allow herds to free-range with astounding success.

introduced grass from across the world for what is

termed ‘pasture improvement’. MANY BIRDS RELY ON GRASSLANDS

Australia has a very large number of bird species relying on

REGENERATING NATIVE GRASSES grasslands for food, nesting and winter habitat. The finches

When my wife and I moved to our tiny 1.2ha (3 acre) and quail in our aviaries are particularly good examples

property that was once an overgrazed piece of dairy but I suspect they have never come into the equation

farm, we were instructed by the local council to leave of considering best practice management of a grazing

two-thirds to regenerate ‘naturally’. I wondered what that paddock. The grazing paddocks we see are wonderful for

actually meant because there were no native species at all cattle, but below the surface they consist of introduced

and only weeds of non-native pastures. species that do not produce seed or cover for nesting and

Where would the native species come from to start security. Many of the birds relying on native grasses for

the regeneration? Our neighbours were given the same survival have dwindled in number and are rarely seen.

instruction but they took an option that I had not considered This is not just a problem in Australia. Around the

and just mowed the weeds every few weeks until a lawn world, wherever large-scale industrial farm management

appeared. I have a deep dislike of mowing and watched for practices predominate, there is a negative impact for birds

Milton two years, noted that nothing was changing in my unmown that once used the same grasslands. In North America the

526 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU plot. I decided the regenerative process needed help. Bobolink, a small passerine grassland bird, has suffered a

Clearly the question here is how, and I thankfully had 2% average annual population decline since 1996, and this

a little experience. The last 10 years of my professional is just one of several species exhibiting the same trend.

work consisted of a huge amount of walking through cow Unfortunately, in developing policy for the Bobolink, the

paddocks, chatting to the farmers and thinking about Canadian government decided it was appropriate to aim

ways to help both the cows and the grasslands. When I at conservation methods to maintain a population at the

talk about improvement to grassland, my general idea is reduced level of only 65% of the 2015 population size

to reduce the amount of bare ground, increase the native (Campomizzi et al 2019). This sounds similar to Australian

grass cover and reduce the introduced species. The advent government thinking in recent years and must be a difficult

of several long droughts has awakened an interest and pill to swallow for hard-working conservation scientists.

realisation among farmers that there is an important place

for native grasses that survive long periods without water. LAND MANAGEMENT FOR CONSERVATION

There are many ways to achieve an increased native grass Conservation in the current global situation is often

cover while reducing weeds but the best over-riding idea not particularly promising, but for grassland birds there

is to go slow and steady. My preferred methods are hand- may be some light on the horizon. The land/grazing

weeding and a little cool-weather burning for my small management practices I mentioned previously, such as

area, but it is different when managing very large paddocks. rotational grazing, can possibly be manipulated with the

In these situations grazing with species such as goats will cooperation of grazing managers and avian ecologists to

help remove woody weeds and even open spaces where benefit all the players.

native grass seed is waiting for a chance to sprout. When considering what factors may influence the

Although herbicide spraying is often chosen to kill survival and breeding success of birds that live in

weeds, in my experience this generally results in a crop of grasslands, we need to take into account how they forage,

new weeds, some species of which were not even obvious nest and even escape predators. Evasion of predators

before treatment. usually requires cover from vegetation such as shrubs

or large clumps of grass. Foraging resources will depend

ROTATIONAL FARMING on what the birds eat, be that insects or, in the case of

The management of pastures is principally driven by the our quail, doves and finches, a plentiful supply of seed.

needs of cattle and the economics of farming. Although I We know this from our own aviary experiences. A

am not an expert in the detail of getting the best from a pasture that is capable of supplying either of these food

cattle herd before they are sent for sale at auction, I have sources is generally highly diverse in plant species, not a

visited and spoken to graziers who use a variety of current monoculture.

methods. Theories and opinions range about which is best Nesting for many species in this habitat is either on the

practice but much of the science now explores improving ground under the cover of a tussock or in a shrub. The

soil health. density of foliage is a key in hiding the nest, reducing the

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

chance of being discovered by a predator, threatening the The difference between a
adult birds, eggs and/or chicks. grazed paddock and one
without cattle can be seen
Clever cattle managers will manipulate their pastures to on either side of this fence
provide ample grass for grazing while also carefully not
allowing this fodder to drop below a level that either kills
the tussock or requires too long to regenerate. It seems
possible then that a balance could be achieved where a The appearance of King Quail
proportion of grass is grazed, while still leaving enough was a surprise result in my
for successful survival of birds in the same paddock. If we regenerating grassland
think about this sensibly, these birds have always lived with
‘somebody’ eating the grass. In North America there were
species such as bison, while in Australia kangaroos forage
in our grasslands.

THE BOBOLINK CASE

Although not Australian, the Bobolink has been examined

under differing grazing practices and is a fine example of

where methods might be transplanted to another species.

The basic comparison investigated the success of pairs

fledging young in refuge grasslands with areas that were

grazed by cattle at either different times of the year or

with different numbers of cattle.

Thinking of the refuge patches as a baseline, the

researchers noted that about 50% of Bobolink territories There are now several patches of large tussocks that are

fledged young—about the same as I have seen in the seeding each year and spreading into new areas.

territories of Golden-headed Cisticolas—a species of You may wonder how I achieved the burning in a safe

warbler—in north Queensland. As expected, where manner. Honestly, it was very simple. I cut an old metal Healthy cattle but poor
ground cover
grazing was introduced, there was a decline in fledging water tank into three rings, rolled the rings into place and
BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU • 527
success as a direct result of either nests being crushed, burnt within the circular area. The rings were then moved

or reduced grass cover aiding predators in finding nests. to a new site when another burn was planned.

However, a key element here was that if limited grazing The abundance of wildlife moving back into the area has

occurred early in the nesting season, fledgling success was been astonishing. Although I occasionally saw Red-browed

only marginally reduced. Firetail Finches passing through prior to regeneration

If cattle were allowed to forage in the breeding sites efforts, we now have a permanent population. A real

during winter and the first month of birds arriving after surprise last summer was the appearance of King Quail,

migration, the fledgling rate was lowered significantly to and this year Red-chested Button-quail, both of which, after

only 16%. This scenario also noted significantly fewer many years of bird watching I had never seen in this area.

numbers of breeding birds establishing territories. The Although cattle do not graze the area, there is a large

result was attributed to cattle removing the level of population of herbivores including Grey Kangaroos and

grass to a point where nests could not be built and/or Red-necked Wallabies. The latter have built up in numbers

territories were not suitable for breeding. In this trial, the and frequently graze the burnt areas and shelter in the

winter stocking rate was high and closer to normal farm longer grass that has not been burnt for at least two

grazing levels. years. These are just a few of the changes I have seen,

In a spring grazing trial, where cattle were present just but I think they exemplify that changes can be made to

after establishment of Bobolink territories and at a lower improve the balance of human disturbance, land use and

stocking rate, the Bobolink were more positive in their biodiversity, even at a small scale.

response. Birds remained on their territories if the cattle

appeared after breeding had started. Whereas the winter CONCLUSION

grazing resulted in only 16% of territories fledging young, I think it is quite obvious that we can all make positive

this figure rose to 67% if the paddocks were lightly grazed changes either at the backyard level or in the pastures

in spring. that feed the world. Science has shown that cattle grazing

The researchers acknowledge there is still a lot of can co-exist with successful breeding bird populations.

work to be done in finding exactly the right balance in It is all about finding new ways to manage pasture and

stocking numbers, timing of grazing and grass condition to grasses while producing food for us and not harming

allow successful bird breeding. The evidence, however, is wildlife—a balance between restoring biodiversity while

overpowering in showing that cattle and birds can co-exist still producing food in a profitable business.

successfully to manage a grazing business with positive It is clearly an interesting challenge but nothing is

wildlife outcomes. beyond human inventiveness. As our grassland birds

disappear, particularly across southern Australia, we all

THE HOME EXPERIENCE need to search for new ways to improve our biodiversity

Perhaps we should now re-examine the status of my management. The next time you are chatting to a farmer,

own very small grassland and its regenerative process and ask what they are doing for the birds on their farm and

progress. I employed two methods and, to be very honest, perhaps offer a few suggestions. Remember, you know

the hand-weeding was a huge task that is regrettably more about caring for birds than most people, and that

ongoing. However, I will say that I am winning, and each knowledge is valuable.

year there are fewer and fewer weeds to remove.

My small burns were a huge success, with each area REFERENCES

seeing an abundance of native plants grow that I did Campomizzi, AJ, Lebrun, ZM, Van Vilet, LD & Morris,

not know existed as seed under the weeds and densely GA 2019, ‘Rotational grazing of beef cattle to support

matted introduced grasses. One of the greatest surprises Bobolink breeding success’, Avian Conservation and

was the appearance of native barbed-wire grass. Ecology vol. 14, no. 13.

VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021

conservation Black-cheeked Lovebird
AUTHOR CAROLYN PRADUN
PHOTO PETER ODEKERKEN
©ABK
Protecting Africa’s

Smallest Lovebird

THE WORLD PARROT TRUST (WPT) IS form a roadmap for lovebird conservation. This led to a
expanding its conservation work in Africa and has field trip at the end of the dry season in November 2020.
appointed Sascha Düker to the role of lovebird Mopane trees Colophospermum mopane serve as habitat
project co-ordinator. Originally from Germany, Sascha is for Black-cheeked and Lilian’s Lovebirds. They are found

a conservation biologist who has been fascinated by in floodplains formed by the Zambezi River and are

parrots since childhood. He says they ‘are among birds inaccessible during the wet season. However, during the

what the primates are among mammals—highly intelligent dry season, large stands of Mopane are cleared at a high

and charismatic’. rate for timber, and burned down overnight to make

There are nine species of lovebirds found in sub-Saharan charcoal. Bags of charcoal are sold at roadsides, providing

Africa and Madagascar, including our previously featured a small but important source of income for villagers with

Nyasa or Lilian’s Lovebird Agapornis lilianae. few alternatives.

Carolyn The WPT has been working with Dr Tiwonge Gawa,

THE BLACK-CHEEKED LOVEBIRD a local academic and ornithologist, for several years to

Of these nine species, the Black-cheeked Lovebird understand the drivers of habitat change in Zambia and

Agapornis nigrigenis has both the smallest physical size surrounding countries and how changes to Mopane

and the smallest distribution. These birds are now woodlands are impacting lovebirds. A new project,

categorised as Vulnerable by the International Union for postponed due to COVID-19 last year, is exploring how

Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and of high conservation the worst effects can be mitigated through nest boxes.

concern due to their small distribution area in Zambia Other WPT initiatives have focused on stopping poisoning

and loss of habitat. at water holes.

Over the last year Sascha has been co-ordinating

a review of research and conservation priorities for THE FIELD TRIP

African lovebirds, collaborating with researchers and The first small flock of around 15 Black-cheeked Lovebirds

conservationists throughout the continent as part of a found on this field trip was spotted sooner than expected,

project initiated by the Parrot Researchers Group and perching in an Acacia tree close to a small nomadic village.

funded by the WPT. The review and its recommendations The lovebirds were making the most of the shade the few

www.parrots.org

AUSTRALIAN CONTACTS

Representative Media
Sheryll Steele-Boyce
Carolyn Pradun Australian BirdKeeper
[email protected] [email protected]

528 • BIRDKEEPER.COM.AU VOL 34 • ISSUE 9 • JUN-JUL 2021