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 The colorful, mild-mannered Bourke Parakeets are quiet, hardy, easy to care for, and therefore ideal for beginner bird keepers. While Bourke's are most frequently rosy pink, color variations include cinnamon, cream, dark pink, and bright pastel pink. This species is the only parakeet without any green in its natural coloration. Males and females are virtually identical |
| in appearance, though hens are generally smaller with darker faces and plentiful gray accents.
Bourke's do not fly or climb while caged like many other parakeets. They do, however, enjoy moving back and forth on and hopping between perches. Therefore, cages must offer more horizontal than vertical space. Bourke's will coexist peacefully in an aviary with other serene birds, such as Society Finches. Since Bourke's enjoy frequent bathing, clean water in a spacious container attached to the cage bars or on the cage floor is a must. Swings, bells, and preening toys are Bourke favorites. Bourke's do best in relatively dry conditions between 60-85°F.
Established pairs of Bourke's breed year-round, especially when provided with a nest box. The hen normally lays 4-6 eggs, which she will incubate for 18-20 days. |
| Interesting Facts: |
| Family: |
Psittacidae |
| Genus: |
Neopsephotus |
| Size: |
Average size is 7-1/2" long. |
| Habitat: |
The Bourke's Parakeet is an Australian grass parakeet and can be seen throughout southern and central Australia. They nest in hollowed out tree trunks and lower in arid and semi-arid scrublands and other open woodlands. |
| Behavior: |
Mild-mannered Bourke parakeets are quiet, calm and affectionate. They are especially active at dawn and dusk, but otherwise rather sedentary. They are not known for their singing or talking ability, but they do chirp and whistle pleasantly, especially during active times. |
| Diet: |
Feed a parakeet pelleted diet with fresh vegetables and fresh fruits. Millet, in small quantities, is a favorite treat. |
| Owner Challenges: |
This species is not as active as many other birds, which may not be appealing to some bird owners. |
| Life Span: |
Up to 15 years. |
| Average Cost: |
$75 to more than $300, depending on the breeder and the bird's coloration |
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PRODUCTS RELATED TO:
Holidays
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