Quaker or Monk Parakeets: General

There are four subspecies of Quaker parakeets (also called Quaker parrots or monk parakeets), and the nominate species is Myiopsitta monachus. These birds are native to southern South America, including parts of Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Uruguay, but they have established feral colonies in numerous US states. Members of this group of birds are small to medium in size. 

Quaker parrots are illegal to own in many states in the US and other states require a permit for ownership. Check the regulations in your state before purchasing a new Quaker parrot.

Quaker parrots are self-assured, charming, highly intelligent, and social birds. They are generally very active and need lots of pet-safe toys and play time. 

They love spending time with their “flock” of humans and are known for their ability to talk. In captivity, they often bond closely with one person and are loyal pets. Most hand-raised or well-socialized Quaker parrots are quite gentle and make wonderful family pets. Like many other parrot species, Quaker parrots fed a predominantly seed-based diet are prone to obesity, liver disease, and atherosclerosis.

What are the characteristics and housing requirements of lovebirds?

Color: Vivid green on the head, wings, and back, with a splash of whitish grey on the face, forehead, and chest. The flight feathers are dark blue, and the tail is long, tapering, with a lighter green tinge on the underside. The beak is a dull orange. Breeders have created a variety of beautiful color mutations in Quaker parrots.

Sexing: No external sex differences.

Weight: Average 2.8–5.3 oz (80–150 g)

Size: Average 11–12 in (28–30 cm) in length

Lifespan: 20–30 years

Diet: Consult your veterinarian for proper nutrition recommendations.

Breeding: Sexual maturity occurs at 1–3 years, depending on the species. Quaker parrots are prolific breeders in captivity.

Brood Size: 5–8 eggs that hatch in 24 days. Young leave the nest at 6–8 weeks old.

Cage: Minimum 2 ft x 2 ft x 3 ft long (60 cm x 60 cm x 90 cm)

Where can I get a Quaker parrot?

Quaker parrots may be purchased from a pet store or a reputable breeder. When selecting a Quaker parrot, try to choose a young bird. Older, wild, colony- or parent-raised birds may prove challenging to tame and tend to be nippy. Hand-raised babies often make better pets since they have been completely socialized with humans. Young birds are generally easier to tame and adapt more readily to new environments and situations.

Once you have your bird, be sure to safely expose it to different types of people and events to help promote a calm, well-adjusted pet (e.g., people that are young, old, male, and female; other pets; car trips; visits to the veterinarian). A lively, alert bird that is not easily frightened is certainly more well adapted to change and will be less stressed about new things. After purchasing your new bird, have it examined by an avian veterinarian, as they are more familiar with pet birds, their diseases, and dietary needs.

What veterinary care do Quaker parrots need?

Quakers require regular, routine veterinary health check-ups. Your veterinarian can perform a physical examination, grooming (nail or feather trim as necessary), and laboratory tests, as needed. During these annual health examinations, your veterinarian can address nutritional and care issues. Veterinary exams are intended to help prevent disease and will aid in the maintenance of a long-lasting, healthy relationship between you and your bird.