The Cute Quaker

The Quaker (or Monk) Parakeet is actually a small parrot. It is unusual in that it is the only nest builder in the parrot family. Their nests can reach immense proportions. These birds are native to Argentina. The Quaker parrot has grown in popularity over the years due to its usually inexpensive price, their talking abilities and their clownish behavior. They were named as one of the ten top birds to own in a Bird Talk Magazine reader’s survey in 1998.

The Quaker Parakeet is usually about 11 inches in length. Its forehead and neck are light gray and the main body plumage is light green. They can also be found in blue and yellow mutations, but are significantly more costly and hard to find. Their average life span is 15 years. The Quaker is a very hardy bird and over the years have established feral populations in the United States as far North as Chicago. Because authorities fear that the parakeet will take over the ecological spots of some of our native songbirds, this species has been outlawed as a companion bird in some states and strictly regulated in others. There are no legal restrictions in the State of Florida; however, in the State of Connecticut, for example, they are legal to own but illegal to sell. The Quaker may be brought in from out of state as a pet there, but breeding is illegal as is selling. A permit is also required.

Quakers can be talented talkers capable of large vocabularies. They can sing songs, but also have the capability of coming forth with ear-splitting screeches at times. The average age for a Quaker to speak its first words is 4 months. Like a lot of birds, they are capable of bad moods, hormonal mood swings and territorial cage aggression. They will usually build a strong and loyal bond to the person who spends the most time with them and handles them often. They are best obtained right after weaning.

It is also important to begin a training program with the Quaker as early as possible. The “up” command should be taught and the bird should be kept below your eye level so that it does not develop the attitude of being the “boss”. Cage requirements for this bird should be at minimum 20” x 20”. A large cockatiel or conure cage is best. Outside access to food cups is necessary as the Quaker is very protective of its cage. Diet should consist of pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Seeds may be offered as an occasional treat but they are too high in fat, and low in necessary vitamins and minerals to be the main source of the diet. A low-fat diet is necessary as these birds can be prone to fatty-liver disease.