10 Red Feathered Birds You Can Keep as Pets
There is a vast number of red birds that make lovely pets. They come in various sizes and temperaments. While some have short lifespans, others can live up to 40 years or more.
From the red-feathered Macaw species to crimson finch, here are red pet birds you’ll likely find in homes.
Also Read: Green Feathered Pet Birds
1. Female Eclectus Parrot
Their tranquil nature, colorful appearance, talking ability, and charming personalities make Eclectus Parrot one of the most popular pet birds. The male and female species are quite different from each other hence the name “Eclectus”, which is coined from the word “eclectic”.
The parrots are friendly and affectionate; they thrive best when allowed to socialize often. Eclectus birds are fast learners and can be taught to speak. They’re assumed to be quieter compared to other parrots.
The bright red bird has a wide range of vocabulary with a unique honk that is loud and sudden. Having a complex digestive system, the Eclectus should be fed with meals high in fiber and low in fat.
You shouldn’t include too many vitamins and mineral supplements in their diet as this could result in digestive tumors.
2. Crimson Rosella
Known for its eye-catching looks, this medium-sized pet parrot appeals to many bird lovers. This might not be the best choice for beginners, as the bird is not easy to handle. Their impressive personality and curious nature make this bird a sought-after pet.
Provide your pet with a varied diet of fruits and vegetables supplemented with seed mixes or pellets. If properly cared for, Crimson Rosella can live for more than 25 years. Although there are eight species present in the world, two are mostly kept as pets.
These birds aren’t good talkers, but they can be taught to speak some words. If you want a talking bird, this might not be the right choice for you. The blue-tailed parrot makes high-pitched calls, which can be alarming at times.
3. Red Factor Canary
Similar to other canaries in body type, Red Factor Canary color can change when fed a special diet or formulated color-food. This sturdy bird can thrive in the most ordinary circumstances.
With adequate care and attention, they’re easy to maintain. The male canaries create sonorous melodies; thus, they’re regarded as one of the best singing birds. Having a cage to themselves, the males can be quite expressive with their natural talent.
Like the name, Red Factor Canaries have a deep, striking red color that gives them that powerful look and makes them stand out amongst other canary species.
Giving them natural foods like carrots, cherries, beets, cherries, and paprika help in the bird’s color change. If you want to add an element of singing and beauty to your home, then this will be your best bet!
4. Red Lory
Its cheerful personality and beautiful appearance make this bird a favorite among bird enthusiasts. Red Lory is an ideal pet for someone willing to attend to their daily requirements as Lories need much care compared to other birds.
The bright-red colored bird always has some tricks or pranks up their sleeves, which are quite entertaining to owners. You’ll need to keep a close eye on them as they can get into trouble or some harm.
Hand-raised Red Lories get used to human touch and handling. They can squawk, chat, and screech throughout the day. These social birds can be seen sleeping on their backs or wrapped up in a blanket.
As an active bird, Red Lory needs lots of space to play around, fly and climb; hence they should be housed in a large enclosure.
5. Cardinal Lory
The captivating traits and features make this bird popular in the pet trade. Having distinct, exotic and lovely plumage, there’s no doubt Cardinal Lory is a beautiful bird. The slim body and unique beak are similar to its cousin, Dusky Lory.
Adult Lories weigh about 7 ounces and grow up to 12 inches (31 centimeters). It’s not easy identifying the males and females as they’re similar in structure. While Cardinal Lories are not the quietest or noisiest, they make natural calls that are sharp and loud.
These exotic Oceanic parrots are proof that sophisticated combinations and many patterns aren’t always the most beautiful. They have a unique and graceful elegance that makes them stand out amongst parrots.
6. Australian King Parrot
These rare pets are calm and quiet if hand-raised. If you’re looking for a special species with striking colors, this is it. Australian King Parrots do not like cuddling or petting, but they can be trained to speak some words.
The acrobatic bird is energetic and loves to climb, swing; hence they’ll need plenty of space for these. While this beauty is highly sought after, it’s hard to find one. You’ll need to contact your local exotic bird club or parrot society close to you.
These large parrots are ranked amongst the quietest species. They express them in an audible but low tone.
7. Scarlet Macaw
Known for its sassy and energetic personality, Scarlet Macaw is a pet bird popular among novices and experienced bird owners. They have red, blue, and yellow plumage, which is quite striking and attractive.
Scarlets can speak a vocabulary of about 10 words and be very loud; thus, they might not be a good choice for those living in condominiums or apartments. This bird will not thrive in a small cage as it’s the largest of the parrot species.
A cage that is at least 2 1/2 feet by 3 feet will best suit them. Since they are full of energy, playful, and love to chew, it’s best to provide them with large swings and toys.
8. Crimson Finch
Featuring a distinct bright crimson coat, Crimson Finches are recognized for their aggressive nature. Their life expectancy is about 5 years and above. The small-sized birds feed mainly on seeds of grasses though they eat insects too.
Due to their aggressive behavior, they’re pegged “blood finch” and “killer finch.” The males are more hostile than the females. Crimson Finch is long-tailed with white specks spread around the side of its body. The males are larger and bulky than their female counterparts.
9. Scarlet Tanager
The songbirds are of various shapes and plumage. They’re also small-sized (about 4 inches long) and colorful. Each species have unique behavioral patterns. Their weight ranges from 21.5 to 42.5 grams.
You can distinguish the male and the female by their dark wings and tails. They are solitary and highly territorial, warding off other males by their frequent singing. Scarlet Tanager feeds mainly on insects like aphids, termites, moths, bees, and others.
The lovely bird changes its plumage after each fall. A study revealed that one scarlet ate six hundred and ten caterpillars in just fifteen minutes.
10. Northern Cardinal
Also referred to as the Virginia Nightingales or red birds, Northern Cardinal are popular for their melodious tunes and scarlet plumage. They are mostly used as mascots for sports teams and schools.
The species can be distinguished by its orange beak, black mask, and unique crest. They’re also lightweight and weigh close to 1.5 ounces. While the males are red-feathered, the females have pinkish-brown plumage.
The male’s plumage is brightly colored to attract mates. Interestingly, food plays a vital role in their courtship. The males often feed their mates seeds using the beak to beak method. You’d have seen images of cardinals kissing.
While these birds can be kept as pets in other countries, it might be banned in the US as these species are under special legal protection.
Conclusion
You’ve probably made your choice of pet birds by now. Ensure the bird you select are not under any legal protection. Go for the one that best suits your needs and preference.
Enjoy quality time with your pet bird!
