Fact Sheet: Psephotus (Grass Parrots)

NameLicence Req?Colour Varieties
Bluebonnet, NarethaYes
Bluebonnet, red-ventedYes
Bluebonnet, yellow-ventedYes
Golden-shoulderedYes
HoodedNo
Many-colouredYes
Red-rumpedNoyellow, lutino, blue, pied

Other mutations colours may become available at times.
The species in this genus can be sexed as adults by sight.

FEEDING

DRY SEED MIXTURE: comprising millets and plain canary seed. Sunflower seed and Hulled Oats should also be available.

FRESH WATER: for drinking and bathing

REGULAR GREENS: such as milk thistle, endive, dandelion, seeding grasses, etc.

CUTTLEFISH, SHELLGRIT, CHARCOAL.

VARIETY FOODS: Apple, corn on cob, capsicum, eucalyptus leaves, non-toxic buds and flowers.

HOUSING

AVIARIES*: minimum height 90cm; 10000 sq.cm. first bird, add 5000sq.cm. per extra bird

CAGES*: minimum height 90cm; 5000 sq.cm. first bird, add 2500 sq.cm. per extra bird

PLANTS: most individuals chew the plants in the aviary. Beware of toxic plants

MIXING: NOT generally tolerant of other birds. Bluebonnets are particularly aggressive, fighting through the wire mesh with neighbouring species. Hoodeds are less aggressive than the others and have been kept with finches and doves.

*In Victoria, a Code of Practice for the housing of caged birds applies to the keeping of birds in captivity and requires you to provide adequate space, food, water, etc. for your birds. These codes are available from Agriculture Victoria.

FACT SHEETS:
(NOTE: ALL LICENCING INFORMATION RELATES TO VICTORIA ONLY)