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Coloration is generally subdued yet complex;
under bright lighting, their feathers shimmer with iridescent brilliance.
All species share a bright red patch of feathers under the tail
.
Pionus parrots are regarded as excellent pets,
although some species are very rare in captivity. Most commonly
kept species are the Blue-headed, Maximillian (Scaly-headed) and
White-Capped. Others, such as the Dusky and the Bronze-winged have
become more common due to captive breeding.
Pionus parrots are known for their quiet (compared
to many other parrots) and reserved natures. Unlike some other companion
parrots, aviculturists have noted that they are not particularly
energetic, and do not generally enjoy hands-on play (for example,
being flipped on their backs), but they do provide companionship
and are described as gentle and charming pets.
When excited or frightened, birds of this genus
emit a characteristic wheezing or snorting sound that is sometimes
mistaken for a sign of distress, or a symptom of disease. They also
give off a musky or sweet odor that some caretakers find unpleasant,
but others enjoy.
Pionus parrots are susceptible to obesity, vitamin
A deficiency, and aspergillosis in captivity. These conditions,
with the exception of aspergillosis, are easily prevented.
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