Crimson-bellied parakeet, orCrimson-belliedconure (Pyrrhura perlata)
Phylum —chordata
Class — aves
Order — psittaciformes
Family — psittacidae
Genus – pyrrhura
Appearance
Sharing most physical traits with the other conure breeds, crimson-bellied conure is easily spotted by its distinct colors. Small head and beak, slender bodies and tapered long tail are some of the key features. The adults reach an average length of 9 inches (24 centimeters), a part of which is taken up by the tail feathers. They can weigh up to 4 ounces (100 grams).
One of the prettier conures, crimson-bellied conure displays a variety of lively colors arranged in interesting patterns and combinations. This makes them exceptionally beautiful and quite unique- looking. The body is full of different colors. The thighs, back, and wings are mostly green, with turquoise blue on the lower half of the wings and upper back. Their entire abdomen is strikingly red, giving them their name. It stands out as the center point and draws the eye. The head, neck, and chest are a mix of white and grey, combined in a unique pattern resembling scales. The cheeks are green, and the forehead is light blue.
Habitat
It is found in the south-central Amazon rainforest in Brazil and Bolivia.
Diet
In the Amazon rainforest, the crimson-bellied conure will depend on a diet made of flowers, fruits, small insects and seeds. Additionally, they are also one of the rare breeds that frequently visit clay licks, where they get the vitamins they lack.
Reproduction
The crimson-bellied parakeet is known to breed from August to November. It possibly breeds in April to June as well. Its breeding biology is not well known, but it presumably nests in tree cavities like its congeners. The clutch size is 4-6 eggs that measure 25x20 mm. The incubation period is 25 days, and the chicks remain in the nest for 7-8 weeks.
In captivity
In optimal conditions and with enough good care, these conures will achieve their lifespan of 20 years.
This bird is a great choice for apartment dwellers as they are one of the quietest among conures, getting vocal only when excited. They become trustful of their humans quickly. They also are among the most docile among parrots.
Crimson-belied conures are playful and active birds who love to fly around most of the time. This necessitates putting them in a spacious enclosure with dimensions of at least 9x3x6 ft. There should be perches for the bird to sit on, and plenty of chewable toys for adequate enrichment. You might also consider keeping them in pairs. They do not thrive well if the temperature goes below 50°F (10°C). If it is being kept in places with colder climates, make sure that the enclosure it stays in is a heated one.
Like their diet in the wild, constitute their diet of vegetables, fruits, flowers, and buds. A quality seed mix can be given every day. Also make millet spray available to them, and vitamin and mineral supplements should also be given regularly.
Crimson-bellied parakeets enjoy a bath, so let them have it every day, or even a few times a day if possible. Clean the enclosure at regular intervals, and ensure to replace the food and water dishes every day with fresh ones. Also, remember to replace the chewed up toys from time to time.