Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki)

Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki) key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

More than 10 years

Size

23cm (about 95g)

Diet

Small seeds (millet, canary seed, small amounts of oats and buckwheat), greens, seeding grasses, fruit and pellets

Cage

A walk-in flight 3 m long is recommended, with a vertical nest box about 20 x 20 x 35 cm. The birds are very active, so flight length is the first priority.

Temperament

Active and constantly moving, it also digs about on the floor. Offer seeding grasses and unsprayed branches to draw out foraging behaviour.

Vocalization

Flight calls are repetitive and quieter and higher pitched than those of the red-crowned parakeet; indoors they carry, so placement matters.

Notes

Listed on CITES Appendix II, so import requires an export permit. The related red-crowned parakeet (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae) is on Appendix I and treated differently, so check the scientific name.

About Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki)

Meet the Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki), a lively New Zealand native prized for its green plumage, yellow crown, and active, curious personality.

7 things to know before welcoming a Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki)

1. 1Active Nature & Exercise

   This is an energetic bird that hops and walks around on the ground as much as it perches. Rather than keeping it confined to a small cage, provide daily out-of-cage time and room to move. A sudden drop in activity can signal a change in condition, so keep a close eye on its everyday behavior.

2. 2Choosing a Spacious Cage

   Given its active nature, a cage larger than the typical small-parakeet setup works best. Vary the height and placement of perches so the bird can also move up and down within the cage.

3. 3Climate Differences

   As a species native to New Zealand, it benefits from care that accounts for differences from Japan's climate and seasons. Pay attention to shifts in room temperature and light during seasonal changes, and avoid sudden changes to its environment.

4. 4Curious Personality

   It tends to show interest in both people and objects, and once accustomed to its keeper, it will actively move around and engage. Occasionally rearranging toys and perches helps keep it stimulated and prevents boredom.

5. 5High Egg-Laying Rate

   This species lays a relatively large clutch of 5 to 10 eggs at a time compared to many parakeets. If breeding is not the goal, think ahead about housing arrangements for males and females and how to manage egg-laying conditions.

6. 6Intermediate-Level Care

   Because it requires handling a high activity level and lively temperament, this bird suits keepers with some prior experience more than complete beginners. Before bringing one home, check whether it fits your daily routine and available time.

7. 7A Long-Term Commitment

   With a lifespan of 10 years or more, it's important to plan for the long term before welcoming one home. Beyond stocking up on food, perches, and toys, building a habit of daily health checks will help you catch changes early.

Frequently asked questions about Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki)

Q.Can beginners keep a Yellow-crowned Parakeet?

A.This species is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers. Before bringing one home, it's best to make sure you can provide an environment that matches its high activity level and lively temperament.

Q.Is it the same as the "Yellow Kakariki"?

A.Yes, they're the same bird. The Yellow-crowned Parakeet is also commonly sold in Japan under the name "Yellow Kakariki."

Q.How large does it grow?

A.Adults reach about 23cm in length and roughly 95g in weight, with green plumage, a yellow crown, and a small red patch on the forehead.

Q.What is its lifespan?

A.It's generally expected to live 10 years or more, so it's worth planning ahead for a long-term relationship with this bird.

Q.Are there any legal regulations to be aware of?

A.Yellow-crowned Parakeet (Yellow-fronted Kakariki) 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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