Caiques

The White Bellied Caique (Pionites leucogaster) and the Black Headed Caique (Pionites melanocephalais) and the Lime Green Thigh (more rare) are known as the clowns of the parrot world. Not only from their bold colors,  but from their funny personality. They are relatively quiet as  far as no squawking, but can still make high pitched calls, learn  various whistles, and mimic other noises  as well. The White Bellied Caique originates in South America. They  weigh about 150-170 grams are  about 9- 10 inches in length. Their diet  in the wild consists of fruits  and seeds. Caiques also have an oil preening gland to clean their feathers, so those with allergies may consider one of these guys. Their average lifespan is about 30  years. All our babies are banded with a custom stainless steel band for identification.

There is also a Lime Thighed Caique that is a cross between the White Bellied Caique Parrot and it’s subspecies, the Green Thigh Caique. Main difference between these two are the yellow versus the more green little legs. They are now coming up in popularity and being seen around more. We will hopefully have these in the future. 

Every baby will undergo basic training while in the weaning process, before   going to their new forever homes. They will learn "Step-Up" and begin  “recall” , which is to come back to you. It usually will take them 16 weeks old to be fully weaned and ready for their homes. They are socialized multiple times per day and get to play with toys, fly around and explore.

These babies will be weaned primarily on Roudybush Adult Maintenance pellets (mini or crumble size). We will give you a sample to start them out. If using a seed mix, use the one sized for cockatiels conures or parrots with safflower instead of sunflower (or minimal), since the sunflowers are not the best food for them and are high in fat. Millet spray treats are also a great treat  and we recommend they have a small piece in their cage daily for first couple days upon arrival to their new home. We also use Nutri-Berries for treats. Pine Nuts can be used for training treats.

Fruits and vegetables can be given such as strawberries, apples,  bananas, peeled kiwi, mango, cranberries, oranges, grapes, grapefruit,  broccoli, peas, carrots, green beans, kale and many others. Sprouted seeds also high in nutritional value. Fresh, thawed  frozen veggies, and dried are all acceptable. You can train the Caiques to use a water bottle or provide dishes. They use dishes when taking baths as well or a spritz of water never hurts for a quick shower.

Caiques are not sexually dimorphic. DNA testing must be done to determine male or female. We DNA test all our Caiques and will include a certificate with their band number and hatch date listed on the certificate.