Description

Solomon Islands Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus solomonensis)

Description:
The Solomon Islands Eclectus is a vibrant subspecies native to the Solomon Archipelago. Males exhibit bright emerald green plumage with a distinctive candy apple red flank patch, while females display deep red coloration with royal blue belly feathers. This medium-sized Eclectus reaches 33-35 cm (13-14 in) in length, making it slightly smaller than other Eclectus subspecies.

Key Characteristics:

• Male:
  • Vivid grass-green body
  • Red/orange upper mandible
  • Bright blue primary feathers
  • Distinct red axillary patches
• Female:
  • Crimson head and chest
  • Royal blue abdomen
  • Black beak
  • Violet neck collar
• Sexual Maturity: 2.5-3 years
• Lifespan: 25-35 years (captive)
• Weight: 350-450g

Care Requirements:

Housing:

• Minimum enclosure: 80 x 80 x 120 cm (2.5 x 2.5 x 4 ft)
• Require multiple climbing branches of varying diameters
• Essential daily flight time (minimum 2 hours out of cage)

Specialized Diet:

• 70% fresh produce:
  • Tropical fruits (pawpaw, mango)
  • Dark leafy greens (kale, endive)
  • Cruciferous vegetables
• 25% high-quality pellets
• 5% nuts/seeds (as treats)
• Critical: Higher fruit requirement than other Eclectus subspecies

Behavioral Notes:

• Exceptionally social and affectionate
• Strong mimicry skills (clear speech ability)
• Less prone to screaming than other parrots
• Requires significant mental stimulation

Breeding Information:

• Breeding Season: Year-round in captivity
• Clutch Size: Typically 2 eggs
• Incubation Period: 26-28 days
• Fledging Age: 10-11 weeks

Health Considerations:

• Common health issues:
  • Heavy metal toxicity (zinc/lead) sensitivity
  • Psittacosis susceptibility
  • Feather destructive behaviors if bored
• Recommended:
  • Annual blood panels
  • Quarterly wing/nail trims

Conservation Status:

• CITES Appendix II
• IUCN: Near Threatened (habitat loss concerns)

Available Options:

• Hand-fed weaned juveniles
• DNA-sexed young adults
• Compatible pairings

Shipping Protocol:

• IATA-compliant travel crates
• Pre-shipment health screening
• 10-day post-arrival health guarantee

Purchase Includes:

• Hatch certificate
• Species-specific dietary guide
• Veterinary health records

Important Notes:

1. Requires more social interaction than larger Eclectus subspecies
2. Particularly sensitive to dietary changes
3. Shows stronger pair bonding than other varieties

Ideal For:

• Intermediate to advanced parrot keepers
• Those seeking a “talkative” Eclectus
• Aviculture breeding projects