Pionus are
small parrots which average about 12 inches overall. In
stature and color, they resemble Amazon parrots with which
they are often confused. Colors are variable, but all Pionus
have a splash of pink / red color on the underside of the
tail.
Pionus are
quiet birds, and therefore not great talkers. Most are
capable of a 12 to 15 word vocabulary. Since they have such
quiet voices, you may need to listen carefully in order to
hear your bird speak. Native Pionus vocalizations include
contented purring, cooing, and a distinctive “wheezing”
sound you’ll hear if your bird becomes frightened.
Great pets
for families, Pionus have an easy going personality and don’t
normally bond to just one person. Their quiet voices also
make them good choices for apartments. And, being medium
sized, they have modest caging requirements, which can them
more affordable overall than larger birds.
The most
common Pionus’ in American aviculture are the Blue Headed,
White Capped, Bronze Wing, Maximilian and Dusky. The Coral
Billed and Plum Crown are available, but because they are
rare are generally reserved for breeding programs.
