What Is the Normal Weight of a Quaker Parakeet?

The Quaker Parakeet, often referred to as the Monk Parakeet, is a medium-size bird that is popular among many avian aficionados, thanks to their exuberant and affectionate personality.

  1. Origins

    • The Quaker Parakeet is native to Bolivia, Brazil and central Argentina in South America. After the importation of the species to the United States in the 1960s, there are now wild Quaker Parakeet flocks in some U.S. states as well.

    Sub-Species

    • There are four sub-species of Quaker, each having slightly different features than the other. The four sub-species of the Quaker Parakeet are Myiopsitta monachus monachus, Myiopsitta monachus calita, Myiopsitta monachus cotorra and Myiopsitta monachus luchsi.

    Features

    • Each sub-species of the Quaker averages a body length of 11 to 12 inches and a wingspan of approximately 21 inches. The average weight of a Quaker Parakeet ranges between 90 and 140 grams. Bird coloring can vary depending on the sub-species of the bird and the cross-breeding of different color phases.

    Considerations

    • Body weight can vary depending on the sub-species of Quaker Parakeet, sex of the bird and bird health. Regular examinations by an avian veterinarian will help to ensure your bird is maintaining a healthy weight and is not over or underweight.

    Fun Fact

    • The Quaker Parakeet is the ultimate architect. A flock of wild Quaker Parakeets can build a large communal nest that can weigh over 2,000 pounds.