Why Eclectus Parrots Make the Perfect Pet! | Exotic Parrot Shop Australia

What Makes the Eclectus Parrot So Unique?

The Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus) is one of the most stunning and intelligent parrot species in the world. Known for their vivid sexual dimorphism, males flaunt bright green feathers while females are draped in deep red and purple.

There are around ten sub-species, all tracing back to the “Grand Eclectus.” In Australia, the Red-Sided Eclectus is the most common, followed by the Vosmaeri Eclectus. Unfortunately, many are misled when buying online, mistaking Red-Sided for Grand or Vosmaeri, as the visual differences are subtle to an untrained eye.

💡 Pro Tip: Always buy from a trusted breeder like Exotic Parrot Shop Australia to ensure you’re getting exactly what you paid for.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Eclectus parrots are arboreal rainforest dwellers, often seen in the treetops of New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Cape York Peninsula, and parts of Australia. They thrive in small family groups and are naturally sociable, intelligent, and curious.

Housing: Give Them Room to Spread Their Wings!

Cage Size Matters – The bigger, the better! Choose the largest cage your budget allows. Equip it with:

• Chewable toys

• Swings

• Perches

• Shreddable items

This setup will keep your bird mentally stimulated and prevent bad habits like feather plucking or loud squawking.

Diet: Fuel Their Feathers

Wild Diet: Omnivorous – fruit, veggies, seeds, and even occasional protein.

Ideal Pet Diet Includes:

• Fresh fruit & veg: 🍌 Bananas, 🍎 Apples, 🥦 Broccoli, 🌽 Corn, 🍐 Pears, 🍠 Sweet potato, 🍒 Stone fruits, and more

• Quality parrot seed mix (avoid supermarket brands)

• Vetafarm Paradise Pellets

• Calcium, minerals & vitamin supplements

• Soaked seed (especially for young parrots)

• ❌ Avoid: Avocado, lettuce, chocolate, onion, shell grit

💧 Always provide fresh water.

Hand-Raised Eclectus Babies

At Exotic Parrot Shop Australia, we hand-raise our baby Eclectus parrots from 3 weeks old. This ensures they:

• Build immunity from parents

• Are socialised with different people and household noises

• Are healthy, tame, and confident

We feed using crop needles for better hygiene and minimal mess.

Training & Behaviour Tips

• Positive reinforcement is key—reward with treats, praise & cuddles

• Avoid punishment—never hit your bird

• Consistency builds trust

• Be gentle but assertive during handling

• Daily interaction leads to a well-adjusted companion

Enrichment = Happy Bird

Just like zoo animals, Eclectus parrots need mental stimulation:

Try these enrichment items:

• Wooden, acrylic & shredding toys

• Swings, ladders, balls

• Cardboard boxes, pinecones (disinfected)

• Safe flowers: Bottlebrush, hibiscus, marigold, roses

• Foraging trays, kabobs, bird-safe plants

🔁 Rotate toys regularly to keep things exciting!

Hygiene & Health

• Clean cage weekly

• Change food & water daily

• Watch for signs of illness (weight, feathers, eyes)

• Use safe sprays to prevent lice & mites

• Trim nails with cement perches or in-store assistance

Worming & Parasite Prevention

• Worm every 6 months

• Use half the recommended dose (Eclectus have longer digestive tracts)

• Spray for lice/mites as needed—remove food & water during application

Introducing to Other Birds

Always quarantine new birds for at least 2 weeks.
Then place cages side-by-side for 1 month before interaction.

Your First Few Weeks With Your Eclectus

First 3 Days: Let them settle—minimal handling
First 6 Weeks: Offer a buffet of food options
Post-Weaning Tip: Consider keeping hand-rearing formula on hand in case of stress regression

Nail Care & Visual Health Check

• Use cement perches or visit us for a $15 nail trim

• Check:

  • Muscle tone over keel bone

  • Clear eyes

  • Smooth feathers

  • Strong feet

✅ Why Choose Exotic Parrot Shop Australia?

At Exotic Parrot Shop Australia, we don’t just sell birds—we raise companions. Our parrots are:

• Ethically bred

• Socialised from a young age

• Raised with care and expert knowledge

• Backed with a FREE care guide and support

Want to learn more or reserve your Eclectus Parrot today?

👉 Visit Exotic Parrot Shop Australia – Your trusted source for healthy, happy Eclectus parrots and all the expert advice you need.