Description
Red-sided Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus polychloros)
Description:
The Red-sided Eclectus is a stunning subspecies native to New Guinea and surrounding islands, renowned for its dramatic sexual dimorphism. Males exhibit luminous emerald green plumage with brilliant red flank patches, while females display deep crimson coloration with violet-blue belly feathers. This medium-large parrot reaches 35-38 cm (14-15 in) in length.
Key Characteristics:
Male Features:
- Vivid kelly-green body plumage
- Candy corn-colored upper mandible
- Electric blue primary flight feathers
- Distinctive red “epaulet” patches under wings
- Bright orange eye ring
Female Features:
- Velvety red head and chest
- Royal purple abdomen
- Jet black beak
- Violet neck collar
- Yellow tail band
Biological Specifications:
- Sexual Maturity: 3-4 years
- Average Lifespan: 30-40 years (captive)
- Weight Range: 400-550g
- Wingspan: 45-50 cm (18-20 in)
Housing Requirements:
- Minimum cage dimensions: 1m x 1m x 1.5m (3’x3’x5′)
- Must include:
- Multiple natural wood perches (various diameters)
- Vertical climbing space
- Protected nesting area
- Requires minimum 3 hours daily supervised out-of-cage time
Specialized Dietary Needs:
- 70% fresh foods:
- Tropical fruits (mango, papaya, figs)
- Dark leafy greens (chard, kale, dandelion)
- Colorful vegetables (sweet potato, carrots)
- 25% high-fiber pellets
- 5% nuts/seeds (almonds, walnuts sparingly)
- Essential Supplements:
- Calcium (especially for breeding females)
- Vitamin A
- Probiotics
Behavioral Profile:
- Exceptionally intelligent (problem-solving skills)
- Strong talking ability (clearer diction than Amazons)
- Lower noise level than most large parrots
- Prone to feather plucking if neglected
- Remarkably affectionate with bonded humans
Breeding Information:
- Breeding Season: Year-round capacity
- Clutch Size: 2 eggs (occasionally 3)
- Incubation: 28-30 days
- Fledging: 12-13 weeks
- Parenting Style: Intensive parental care
Health Considerations:
- Common Health Issues:
- Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) susceptibility
- Obesity risks
- Heavy metal toxicity sensitivity
- Recommended Care:
- Annual well-bird exams
- Quarterly blood panels for adults
- Daily bathing opportunities
Conservation Status:
- CITES Appendix II
- IUCN: Least Concern (but declining in some regions)
Available Options:
- Hand-fed babies (weaned)
- DNA-sexed juveniles
- Compatible adult pairs
- Proven breeders
Shipping & Handling:
- Climate-controlled specialized avian transport
- Pre-shipment veterinary inspection
- 14-day health guarantee
Purchase Includes:
- DNA sexing certificate
- Detailed care manual
- Dietary starter kit
- Veterinary health records
Special Notes:
- Requires significantly more fresh food than other parrot species
- Shows extreme sensitivity to environmental toxins
- Females often become more territorial during breeding season
Ideal For:
- Experienced bird owners
- Aviculturists
- Those seeking a highly interactive companion
Recommended Add-ons:
- Custom-designed Eclectus flight cage
- Foraging toy package
- Organic produce starter bundle
- UV lighting system
We purchased a male eclectus from Birds Theory! He is so loveable and healthy! Ana is very nice and dedicated to what she does. She maintains contact and makes sure the birds are well taken care of. I couldn’t be more pleased with the service you have provide! Gregory is extremely knowledgable. You can tell in his enthusiasm the true love and passion he puts into his babies. The environment these babies were presented in was very clean. I’ve purchased seven green cheeks from him and they are all so sweet! I couldn’t have asked for a better bird We are so happy with our new addition.My wife and I will definitely purchase a other feather friend in the near future..