Scarlet Chested Grass Parakeets
Neophema splendida
By Charlie Plaza, CPbirds.com
Scarlet Chested Parakeets rank among the most stunning of grass parakeets. Their beauty is matched by their friendliness towards other bird species, making them ideal companions in aviaries with other parakeets, finches, and softbills.
Scarlet Chested Parakeets, native to Australia, are experiencing a decline in population. These birds exhibit sexual dimorphism, which allows one to distinguish males from females visually. The image to the left shows a mature male. Males display a vivid blue head, a crimson chest, a bright yellow belly, and a deep green back. Females, on the other hand, have less vibrant colors and lack the red chest. They typically measure between 8 to 8.5 inches in length and weigh no more than 3 ounces at 6 months old.
Compared to other parakeets and parrots, Scarlet Chested Parakeets are quite silent. They are, in my experience, the most serene and quiet birds I have ever had. Consequently, I house approximately eight pairs in a room of my home, and their presence is virtually undetectable due to their soft and low chirping. These delightful birds generally live for 10-12 years in captivity, although some have been reported to live significantly longer, depending largely on the quality of care they receive throughout their lives.
Mutations
In recent years, we have observed several mutations resulting from meticulous and strategic breeding. Among the Scarlet Chested Parakeets, there are approximately eight different mutations, each with color variations such as 'Turquoise Cinnamon'. Currently, the known mutations include the standard Green, various Blues (including Turquoise and Par Blue), Fallow, Pied, Lutino, Cinnamon, Grey, and the latest addition, Violet.
To the left, there is a male Lutino Scarlet Chested Parakeet. This magnificent bird is owned by the esteemed Scarlet Chested breeder, Juan Vazquez, based in Orlando, FL.
Breeding Scarlet Chested Parakeets
Scarlet Chested Parakeets are known to be prolific breeders once their basic needs are met. Contrary to some internet sources, breeding them is not overly difficult. They thrive in a clean environment, which is crucial as they forage at the bottom of their cage. A balanced diet is essential, with vitamin-enriched parakeet seed being ideal. Conditioning the birds for breeding a month before introducing them to the nest box is strongly advised. This includes increasing their intake of proteins and fats, ensuring they get enough exercise, and supplementing their diet with additional vitamins, minerals, and calcium. Typically, a female will lay 4-6 eggs and begin incubation after the third egg, lasting 19-21 days. The chicks fledge at about 5-6 weeks and are independent by the seventh week, at which point they can be weaned from their parents. They reach maturity at 8-12 months old.
This topic is broad, and I've only touched on the fundamentals. More information will be provided as time allows, so please revisit for updates.