Issue 73 - February 2004

Parrots in Focus Celestial Parrotlets by Cyril Laubscher – diminutive gems from the Pacific coastal areas of South America. The Complete Psittacine with EB Cravens – this thing about over-feeding our birds – “Do your home food habits carry over to the point that you are consistently over-feeding your pet and breeder birds?” Food for breeding African Greys – Different species of parrots need different foodstuffs. Having bred Greys for many years, Sonny Stollenmaier suggests the best nutritional combination for them. Hooded Parrot by Robert Alison – This handsome Australian bird can be a bit of a loner, preferring its own or a mate’s company to residing in flocks. Perhaps this is why the species is not significantly in danger, compared to its close cousin the Golden-Shouldered Parrot. Consistent success with the Red-vented Cockatoo by Rosemary Low – This Philippine cockatoo only numbers around a thousand in the wild, putting it in the highest threat category. Can captive breeding save this species? What is holistic healthcare for birds? By Leslie Moran – Holistic healthcare – including chiropractic, aromatherapy, herbal and traditional Chinese medicine – has gained increasing popularity when treating people. But did you know that these methods can also be used to naturally treat your birds? Perky Purple Crowns by Allen Friis - The Zit parrot, so named because of its unusual call, is a native of southern Australia. Although good breeders they are not a commonplace sight in aviculture. Allen Friss tells us of his experiences with breeding this species. Status and conservation of the Yellow-shouldered Amazon - There are 49 species of parrot in Venezuela , and the Yellow-shouldered Amazon is considered to be one of the most endangered of them. Jenifer Hilburn tells us how conservation organisations and the local authorities are working together to save this bird. Birds of the Lost Kingdom – Brian Eddy takes us on a tour of Canada’s latest avian attraction. A Pet Parrot Picnic - Every year a picnic is arranged in Auckland, New Zealand, so that owners can mingle and their pet parrots can meet other members of their species. We hear about the latest event, text by Sandy Brewin, photographs by Jo Brewin.