SPECIES SPOTLIGHT

The wonderful world of exotic animals

Senegal Parrot (Poicephalus senegalus)

The Senegal parrot is a relatively small Psittacine bird from West Africa. They (and their two subspecies) are gregarious birds that will flock in large numbers and inhabit a vast array of habitats from forests to farmlands. They are also considered a pest to many farmers as they are granivorous and will feed on maize as well as fruits and blossoms. Senegal parrots are abundant across their native distribution. Despite this, they were added to CITES Appendix II in 1981 alongside other parrot species. Luckily, they are routinely bred in captivity and make an excellent alternative to the larger, more demanding Psittcus species of Africa.

In the wild, Senegal parrots can live up to 30 years and even longer in captivity with the correct care and nutrition. This is a huge commitment for any keeper, but their gregarious nature makes them particularly good companion birds. This, of course, takes time and training. Although Senegal parrots are not as talkative as other parrots, they can be taught to say a few words and will communicate with whistles.

Senegal parrots require a reasonably high-fat diet and should be socialised early, to allow them to have plenty of free time outside of the cage to compensate for this. Research by Texas State University found that their diet was comprised of “77% fruit, with figs (Ficus sp.), African grapes (Lannea microcarpa), and shea fruits (Vitellaria paradoxa) being the most commonly eaten. Seeds made up about 22% of the diet, and the remaining 1% consisted of flowers”. Their omnivorous needs make them best suited to a pelleted diet in captivity, supplemented with fruits and vegetables.

A good-sized cage is required for these birds. Provided they are given plenty of toys to keep themselves entertained and given regular flying time, most keepers will find them to be unproblematic. Senegal parrots have got a slight reputation for being a “oneperson bird”, so all members of the household must spend time with the parrot to ensure that they maintain a good relationship. A rough perch is also necessary to ensure that they can groom themselves to some degree.