The Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus) is a strikingly beautiful and intelligent parrot species known for its vivid sexual dimorphism: males are bright green with orange beaks, while females are red and purple with black beaks. Native to the Solomon Islands, New Guinea, northeastern Australia, and nearby islands, Eclectus Parrots are admired for their gentle temperament, quiet nature (for a parrot), and clear talking ability.
Eclectus Parrot Characteristics
Size: 17–20 inches (43–51 cm) in length.
Weight: 380–550 grams.
Lifespan: 30–50+ years with proper care.
Color: Males are bright green with blue and red underwings; females are red and purple with a black beak.
Temperament: Calm, intelligent, social, and observant.
Eclectus Parrot Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Eclectus Parrots are known for their gentle and quiet demeanor, making them suitable for owners who prefer a less noisy parrot. They are intelligent, observant, and sensitive, requiring a stable, calm environment.
They often bond closely with their caretakers and enjoy gentle interaction, training, and foraging activities. They are not typically as demanding or hyperactive as some other parrot species but still require daily mental and physical enrichment.
Without adequate stimulation and socialization, Eclectus Parrots can develop behavioral issues such as feather plucking.
Diet and Feeding
The Eclectus Parrot has unique dietary needs compared to many other parrots, requiring a high-fiber, low-fat, and vitamin-rich diet:
Fresh vegetables: Dark leafy greens, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, broccoli, squash.
Fruits (daily, in variety): Papaya, mango, pomegranate, melon, berries.
Sprouted legumes and grains: Lentils, mung beans, quinoa.
Pellets: Only if formulated for Eclectus, and in moderation.
Fresh, clean water daily.
Avoid high-fat seeds and nuts as dietary staples, avocado, chocolate, caffeine, and salty/sugary foods.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: Spacious cage, minimum 36” x 24” x 48” with horizontal bars for climbing.
- Exercise: At least 3–4 hours out of the cage daily for activity and enrichment.
- Enrichment: Foraging toys, chewable natural wood toys, training sessions, ropes, and social interaction.
- Social needs: Daily gentle interaction and structured routines are important for their well-being.
- Hygiene: Regular cage cleaning and access to bathing or misting for feather health.
- Veterinary care: Annual check-ups with an avian vet familiar with Eclectus-specific dietary needs.
Common Health Problems
Eclectus Parrots can develop:
- Toe-tapping and wing-flipping syndrome: Often linked to dietary imbalances or artificial vitamin overdoses.
- Feather plucking: Due to stress, boredom, or dietary deficiencies.
- Vitamin A deficiency: If not fed a varied, fresh diet.
- Obesity: If fed a seed-heavy or fatty diet.
Regularly monitor their droppings, feather condition, and activity levels to catch early signs of health concerns.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $1,500–$3,500 USD depending on subspecies, age, breeder, and region.
- Where to buy:
- Ethical breeders specializing in hand-raised Eclectus Parrots with clear dietary practices.
- Avian specialty stores with health guarantees.
- Parrot rescue organizations (due to long lifespan, some Eclectus Parrots need rehoming).
Owning an Eclectus Parrot is a long-term commitment requiring dietary diligence and consistent care.
Are Eclectus Parrots Good Pets?
Eclectus Parrots can be wonderful companions for owners prepared to meet their specialized dietary needs and provide daily enrichment.
They are gentle, intelligent, and capable of clear speech and mimicry.
However, they require a stable environment and diet-specific management to remain healthy.
Conservation Note
Eclectus Parrots are not currently endangered but face pressures from habitat loss and trapping in some areas. Always purchase from captive-bred, ethical sources or consider adoption.