Eclectus Parrot Health Problems

Eclectus parrots hail from the rainforests of the world and are most commonly recognized for their sexual dimorphisim. Males are bright green, with orange beaks and blue or red tail and wing feathers, and weigh in at 430 grams. Females, on the other hand, are red and blue, with black beaks and weigh o450 grams. This striking coloration has made the birds popular in both homes and zoos around the world.

  1. Eclectus Parrot Care

    • Eclectus parrots are popular, intelligent and talkative pets. They are social birds and require a calm, inclusive environment. As larger birds, they need large cages with plenty of toys. They have special nutritional requirements and need plenty of fresh fruit. They should not be subjected to stress. Poor care or diet with result in health issues.

    Respiratory Problems

    • Respiratory problems such as Aspergillosis strike Eclectus parrots of any age. These conditions generally result from the bird ingesting toxins, but may also occur as a product of a fungal infection. Symptoms include a voice change or loss of voice. Respiratory complications are generally fatal.

    Feather Plucking

    • Any unhappy or under nourished Eclectus parrot may turn to feather plucking. This condition consists merely of the bird pulling out its own feathers. Feather plucking may be due to malnutrition, boredom, unhappiness or an underlying disease. Treat feather plucking by increasing a bird's nutrition and activity level, giving it more toys and paying it more attention. This will help if the problem is the bird's unhappiness. If it is due to an underlying issue, the condition requires veterinary care.

    Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD)

    • Eclectus parrots are especially vulnerable to Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD). According to Avian Web, a cirovirus attacks and kills the cells of both feathers and beak, leading to defoliation. The virus also attacks a bird's immune system, and leaves a bird vulnerable to a range of secondary infections. BPFD generally leads to death due to this immunosuppression.

    Liver Problems

    • Eclectus parrots acquire liver problems if they aren't well cared for. A long digestive tract requires specific supplementations. According to Avian Web, failure to feed Eclectus parrots the required amount of fresh fruits and vegetables leads to liver problems that culminate in a loss of color, malnutrition and eventually death.