Caiques

There are two main species of Caiques: the White-bellied Caique and the Black-headed Caique. They are small and stocky birds with a short, square tail. Caiques are native to the Amazon Basin in South America. The White Bellied is south of the Amazon River and Black-headed is north. They have very bright, pure colored feathers and are considered by many to be among the most beautiful parrot species. Caiques usually weigh in between 150-170 grams (8-9 inches in length) and can live to 40 years of age. While small in size, these birds are highly vocal in their native habitats.

These birds eat fruit and seeds and typically inhabit the canopy of forested areas. Caiques have an atypical social system for parrots: they tend to live in a clan of 5-10 related families in a single, large tree. These birds are highly competitive for social status. When fights occur, other members of the clan immediately join into the bird’s dispute on the clan members’ side. Caiques in the wild are believed to be somewhat less monogamous than other (larger) parrots.

In captivity, Caiques frequently will establish relationships with multiple persons in a household (resembling a clan) and, thus, have the potential be less of a problem to other persons in the household than most other parrot species which often tend to seek and establish a relationship with their primary caregiver. Proper socialization of domestically bred Caiques requires patience, clear boundaries, and firmness over time. Caiques are not particularly competent at imitating human speech. They are, however, extremely active and playful birds who love to chew, and play with toys – often while lying on their backs. They are also known to hop about – particularly in conjunction with rhythmic hand clapping. Their clownish behaviors endear them to their keepers. They are known to be mistrustful of other species of parrot and are not recommended as companions to persons who live with species of parrots other than Caiques. Likewise, they are not easily socialized to living with people, are not recommended for homes with children) as some individuals are quite hot tempered) and (for the same reason) are never totally “safe” with strangers.

Photos of both the White-bellied Caique and Black-headed Caique are shown at the top of this page.

Please consider volunteering at Wilton Parrot Rescue (“WPR”). WPR is an entirely volunteer organization funded solely by voluntary contributions. Regardless of your level of familiarity / comfortability with parrots you can learn about parrots while you make a contribution to the welfare of our birds, help to socialize them and, ultimately, find a good and loving home. Visit our website (www.wiltonparrotrescue.com) for more information about volunteer opportunities and a volunteer application.