Red-breasted Parakeet

The Red-breasted Parakeet (Psittacula alexandri) is a medium-sized (33-38 cm), strikingly colorful parrot native to Southeast Asia. Males display a pinkish-red breast, greyish-purple head, and emerald green body, while females have a duller coloration with less red. Known for their loud, shrill calls and active nature, these parakeets require spacious enclosures and plenty of mental stimulation. They thrive on a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, and quality pellets, and can live 25-30 years with proper care. While not as prolific talkers as some parrots, they can learn simple words and mimic sounds.

ESSENTIAL FACTS
Scientific NamePsittacula alexandri
Size/Weight33-38 cm (13-15 in) | 120-140g
Lifespan25-30 years
Native RangeSE Asia (India to Indonesia)
IDENTIFICATION
MalePink-red breast, grey-purple head, green body, black chin stripe
FemaleDuller colors, less red on breast, pale yellow beak
JuvenileGreen throughout, develops adult colors at 18 months
DIET
Base Diet50% pellets, 30% vegetables, 15% fruits, 5% seeds/nuts
Favorite FoodsPapaya, corn, leafy greens, millet spray (treat)
Foods to AvoidAvocado, chocolate, caffeine
HOUSING
Cage SizeMinimum 36″W × 24″D × 48″H
Essential FeaturesHorizontal bars, multiple perches, chewable toys
Ideal SetupAviary with flight space (6+ ft long)
BEHAVIOR
Talking AbilityFair (can learn 10-20 words)
Noise LevelLoud, piercing calls (especially mornings)
Social Needs1-2 hours daily interaction
Psittacula_alexandri CARE GUIDE AND PRODUCTS

🦜 Red-breasted Parakeet Care Guide

Essential care tips for your colorful companion

🌿 Daily Care Routine

  • Fresh Food & Water: Provide 1/4 cup pellets + 1/3 cup chopped veggies/fruits in morning
  • Water Change: Replace water twice daily (they often dunk food)
  • Exercise: Minimum 2 hours supervised out-of-cage time
  • Social Time: 30+ minutes interactive play/training

🗓️ Weekly Must-Dos

  • Deep Clean: Disinfect cage trays and perches with bird-safe cleaner
  • Bathing: Offer spray shower 3x/week (they love misting)
  • Toy Rotation: Swap out 50% of toys to prevent boredom
  • Weight Check: Healthy range: 120-140g

🍎 Diet Tips

  • Pellet Base: Harrison’s or Zupreem (50% of diet)
  • Veggie Mix: Chopped kale, corn, bell peppers (30%)
  • Fruit Treats: Papaya, mango, berries (15%)
  • Healthy Seeds: Millet spray (limited to 5%)
  • Calcium Source: Provide cuttlebone at all times

🏠 Housing Tips

  • Cage Size: Minimum 36″W × 24″D × 48″H (bigger preferred)
  • Bar Spacing: 5/8″ to 3/4″ (prevent escape)
  • Perches: Various diameters (0.5-1.5″) for foot health
  • Toys: 5+ including wood blocks, rope, and foraging puzzles
  • Location: Avoid drafts/direct sunlight, place at eye level

💡 Behavior & Training Tips

  • Taming: Use millet sprays to build trust (initially shy)
  • Speech Training: Repeat simple words daily (best in mornings)
  • Biting Prevention: Redirect with toys when nippy
  • Noise Management: Cover cage partially during loud periods
  • Enrichment: Hide food in paper cups or leaf wrappers

❤️ Health Tips

  • Weekly Checks: Bright eyes, clean nostrils, smooth feathers
  • Warning Signs:
    • Fluffed feathers for hours
    • Changes in droppings
    • Loss of appetite
  • Vet Visits: Annual checkups + fecal tests
  • Emergency Prep: Keep avian vet contact handy

💎 Pro Tip: Use natural wood perches from safe trees (manzanita, dragonwood) to help wear down nails naturally!