Crimson Rosella

Crimson Rosella key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

10-15 years

Size

36cm (115-170g)

Diet

Mixed seed (canary seed, oats, safflower), seeding grasses, greens, fruit and vegetables, and pellets

Cage

A walk-in flight 3 m long is recommended, with a vertical nest box about 23 x 23 x 61 cm, bathing areas and clean sand for scratching about.

Temperament

Not shy, it can be approached even while feeding. It chews, so keep up a supply of unsprayed willow, elder and pine branches.

Vocalization

In flight it gives mellow two-syllable, piping notes with the second inflected upward; perched birds twitter and cluck softly, the notes turn metallic when the bird is threatened, and it shrieks when frightened.

Notes

Listed on CITES Appendix II, so import requires an export permit. Colour differs sharply between subspecies, so check the scientific and subspecies names rather than the trade name alone.

About Crimson Rosella

Crimson Rosella: a 36cm medium parrot with deep red plumage and blue-violet cheek patches. Lifespan 10-15 years, suited to intermediate keepers. Learn the key traits before adopting one.

7 things to know before welcoming a Crimson Rosella

1. 1Color Varies by Subspecies

   Crimson Rosellas have seven recognized subspecies, and some show strikingly different colors, from pale yellow to deep orange-red. It's worth checking the coloring of the individual bird you're considering, since appearance can vary widely even within the same species.

2. 2Needs Space for Its Tail

   At about 36cm long, much of that length is tail, so the enclosure needs enough width and height to keep the tail feathers from getting damaged. Regular time outside the cage can also help prevent stress from lack of exercise.

3. 3Calls Can Be Loud

   Active and vocal by nature, Crimson Rosellas call fairly often and not always quietly. If you live in an apartment, it's worth considering the time of day and how well-insulated the walls are before adopting one.

4. 4Moods Can Shift

   While curious and capable of bonding with people, Crimson Rosellas can have noticeable mood swings. Rather than forcing interaction, it helps to build trust at the bird's own pace.

5. 5Best Suited to Experienced Keepers

   This species is generally considered suited to intermediate-level keepers with some prior parrot experience. First-time owners should learn the basics of care and handling before bringing one home.

6. 6A 10-15 Year Commitment

   Crimson Rosellas typically live 10 to 15 years, so welcoming one means a long-term commitment. It's worth thinking ahead about ongoing care and how your living situation might change over that time.

7. 7Prepare the Space in Advance

   Set up perches and cage height with the bird's long tail in mind so its feathers aren't damaged. It can take time for a new bird to settle in, so give it a calm, quiet adjustment period after arrival.

Frequently asked questions about Crimson Rosella

Q.Is the Crimson Rosella suitable for beginners?

A.This species is generally considered better suited to intermediate-level keepers. It helps to have some prior parrot experience, or to research thoroughly, before bringing one home.

Q.How large do they grow?

A.Adults reach about 36cm in length and weigh roughly 115 to 170g. Since much of that length is tail, they need more enclosure space than their weight alone might suggest.

Q.What is their lifespan?

A.Crimson Rosellas typically live 10 to 15 years. That's a long-term commitment, so it's worth planning for your future living situation before adopting one.

Q.Do their colors vary?

A.Yes, there are seven recognized subspecies, some with dramatically different coloring, from pale yellow to deep orange-red. Individual appearance can vary quite a bit even within the same species.

Q.Is the Crimson Rosella listed under CITES?

A.Crimson Rosella is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

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