Senegal Parrots: General

The Senegal parrot, Poicephalus senegalus, is a gregarious, chatty bird. There are three subspecies of Senegal parrot, and they are all native to a wide range in central West Africa. Members of this group of birds are small to medium in size and have a compact, stocky body.

Senegal parrots are self-assured, charming, highly intelligent, and playful birds. In the wild, they live in large, social flocks. They readily learn human speech and often learn to mimic household noises like the microwave and telephone. Their voices are softer and quieter than other, larger parrots. In captivity, they often bond closely with one person and are loyal pets. Most hand-raised or well-socialized Senegal parrots are gentle and make wonderful family pets.

What are the characteristics and housing requirements of lovebirds?

Color: Adult Senegal parrots have a charcoal gray head and face, green back and throat, and yellow-orange under-parts and rump. The green of the throat forms a “V” that points down over the chest. The beak is gray and the eyes are bright yellow. Immature Senegal parrots have a duller color than adults. The head is brownish, with dull gray ear coverings, and the eyes are dark brown.

Sexing: Females tend to have a longer green “V” on the chest.

Weight: Average weight is 4.4–6.0 oz (125–170 g), but the average is 5.3 oz (150 g).

Size: Average is 9 in (23 cm) in length.

Lifespan: Average lifespan is 25–30 years (up to 50 years if well-kept).

Diet: Ask your veterinarian for proper nutrition recommendations.

Breeding: Sexual maturity occurs at 1–3 years, depending on species.

Brood size: 2–3 eggs that hatch in 27–28 days. Young leave the nest at 8–9 weeks old.

Cage: Minimum 3 ft x 3 ft x 4 ft long (90 cm x 90 cm x 120 cm).

Where can I get a Senegal parrot?

Senegal parrots may be purchased from a pet store or a reputable breeder. When selecting a Senegal parrot, try to choose a young bird. Older, wild, colony- or parent-raised birds may prove challenging to tame and are often nippy. Hand-raised babies often make better pets because they have been completely socialized with humans. Young birds are easier to tame and adapt 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 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 their dietary needs.

What veterinary care do Senegal parrots need?

Senegal parrots 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 health, nutritional, and maintenance 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.