Plumheaded Parakeets: Pictures, Where to buy, and Temperament info

Plum headed parakeets are one of the most stunning parakeet species you can keep as a pet. With their vibrant plumage and gentle personalities, they have been winning over bird lovers for centuries. If you are looking for a beautiful, relatively quiet companion bird, the plum headed parakeet might be the perfect fit.

Origin and History

Plum headed parakeets (Psittacula cyanocephala) are native to the Indian subcontinent, where they are found in forests and woodlands across India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. They are part of the Psittacula genus, which includes other popular pet parakeets like the Indian ringneck.

These birds have been kept as pets for thousands of years in their native regions. Ancient Indian texts mention them as prized companion birds, and they have been traded and admired across Asia and Europe for centuries. Despite their long history as pets, they remain less common in the pet trade than some other parakeet species, which adds to their appeal for bird enthusiasts looking for something a bit different.

Colors and Markings

The plum headed parakeet is named for the male’s striking plum colored head, which ranges from deep reddish purple to a rich violet. The body is primarily bright green with a yellowish green underside. Males also have a narrow black ring around the neck and a red shoulder patch that makes them particularly eye catching.

Females have a grayish blue head instead of the plum color, and they lack the black neck ring. Both sexes have a long, elegant tail with blue central feathers tipped in white. Young birds of both sexes resemble females until they reach maturity at around 2 to 3 years of age, when males develop their distinctive plum coloring.

These parakeets are medium sized, typically measuring about 12 to 14 inches in length including their long tail feathers. They have a compact, graceful build that makes them a pleasure to watch.

Temperament and Personality

One of the biggest draws of plum headed parakeets is their gentle, even tempered personality. Compared to other parakeet species, they tend to be calmer and less nippy. They are social birds that bond well with their owners but are generally not as demanding of attention as some other parrot species.

Plum headed parakeets are relatively quiet for a parakeet. While they do vocalize, their calls are softer and less shrill than species like Indian ringnecks or sun conures. This makes them a better option for people who live in apartments or have close neighbors.

They can learn to mimic some words and sounds, though they are not the most prolific talkers in the parrot family. Males tend to be better talkers than females. Even without extensive vocabulary, they are entertaining and engaging companions that enjoy interacting with their owners.

Plum Headed Parakeets as Pets

Plum headed parakeets make wonderful pets for bird lovers who want a beautiful, manageable companion. They are a good choice for intermediate bird owners who have some experience with parakeets or other small parrots. First time bird owners can also succeed with this species as long as they do their research and commit to proper care.

These birds need a spacious cage that allows room for flying and climbing. A cage that is at least 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 36 inches tall is the minimum, though bigger is always better. They should also have daily time outside the cage in a bird safe room for exercise and social interaction.

Plum headed parakeets do well as single birds when given enough attention from their owner. They can also be kept in pairs, though same species pairs that have bonded with each other may become less interested in interacting with humans.

Health and Lifespan

With proper care, plum headed parakeets can live 15 to 20 years or more in captivity. They are generally hardy birds, but like all parrots, they can be susceptible to certain health issues including psittacosis, aspergillosis (a fungal infection), polyomavirus, and nutritional deficiencies if their diet is not balanced.

Regular veterinary checkups with an avian vet are important for catching health problems early. Signs that your plum headed parakeet may be unwell include lethargy, fluffed up feathers, loss of appetite, discharge from the eyes or nostrils, and changes in droppings.

Diet and Nutrition

A healthy diet for a plum headed parakeet should include a high quality pellet formula as the foundation, making up about 60 to 70 percent of the diet. Supplement this with fresh fruits and vegetables daily, including leafy greens, carrots, apples, berries, and peppers.

Seeds can be offered as treats but should not make up the bulk of the diet, as an all seed diet leads to nutritional deficiencies and obesity. Fresh, clean water should always be available, and food and water dishes should be cleaned daily.

Where to Buy a Plum Headed Parakeet

Plum headed parakeets are less commonly available than species like budgies or cockatiels, so you may need to seek out a specialized avian breeder. Expect to pay between 400 and 700 dollars for a hand raised plum headed parakeet, though prices can vary based on age, coloring, and the breeder’s location.

Always buy from a reputable breeder who raises their birds in clean, healthy conditions and can provide health documentation. Avoid purchasing wild caught birds, as this practice is harmful to wild populations and wild caught birds are much harder to tame and socialize. A hand raised plum headed parakeet will be significantly friendlier and easier to work with.