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Pionites melanocephalus
A medium parrot with striking black cap and white belly. Known as the 'dancing parrot' for its playful, energetic personality. Highly active and curious.
The black-headed parrot (Pionites melanocephalus), also known as the black-headed caique, is a small parrot native to the Amazon Basin north of the Amazon River. It has a black crown, orange cheeks and thighs, a white belly and green wings, and is renowned in aviculture for its playful, energetic and acrobatic behaviour.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
Amazon Basin north of the Amazon River
Lifespan
25-30 years
Size
23-25cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Pellets, Fruits, Vegetables
Spacious cage and daily free flight essential
Pellet-based diet with fresh fruits and vegetables
Calls / Song
さえずり · © Jarol Fernando Vaca · xeno-canto XC904082 (CC BY-NC 4.0)
地鳴き · © Marc Anderson · xeno-canto XC983005 (CC BY-NC 4.0)
Sources: xeno-canto
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Pionites melanocephalus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Psittacus melanocephalus
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Pionites melanocephalus。Psittaciformes(オウム目)は CITES 附属書II に一括掲載(附属書I 該当種・及び注記除外4種を除く)。本種はその附属書II適用。
Sources: CITES Appendices (valid from 25.05.2024) / CITES Psittaciformes spp. 附属書II注記(Appendix-II annotation)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Very active and playful. Multi-bird keeping needs care
Strong beak and loves to chew. Provide plenty of toys
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Black-headed Caique is 20〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 50〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Black-headed Caique is 25-30 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Black-headed Caique typically reaches 23-25cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Black-headed Caique feeds on: Pellets, Fruits, Vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Black-headed Caique varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026