Hawk-Headed Parrot

b>Physical Description: Hawk headed parrots, also known as “Hawk Heads,” are extremely unique and unusual parrots. They are easily recognized by their beautiful, multi- colored “headdress” which will flare up or down, depending on the bird’s mood. When startled, they will often flare out their headdress in the hopes of scaring away predators. The feathers on the back of a Hawk Head are green, while the feathers on the chest and headdress are bright red and blue. Their heads are typically brown/gray with grayish striping along the eyes. Hawk Headed Parrots have black beaks and brown/orange eyes. They are truly a striking parrot.

Average Lifespan: 30 – 40 years

Sexing: Sexing these birds requires a DNA test, as they are not sexually dimorphic (you cannot tell the sex just by looking at them). Female Hawk Headed Parrots are particularly rare so it is usually a safe bet to assume the sex is male.

Origin: South America

Trainability: Domestic hand-fed babies make excellent pets. They are very similar to Amazons, but (typically) without the bite and unpredictability. Hawk Heads are playful and outgoing, and learn to speak quite easily; they have cute, quiet, high toned voice. Hawk Heads tend to bond very strongly with their primary caretaker or their immediate family, but this can be avoided with plentiful interaction from willing volunteers. They can become extremely aggressive, particularly after 2-3 years. They may exhibit aggressive behavior to visitor, and have known to fly at the faces of people whom they do not recognize (flying Pit Bull). However, they are generally very affectionate and friendly with immediate family members residing in the same house.

Loudness: Hawk Headed Parrots can be somewhat loud, and have a raucous call when they are irritated with something. If you don’t mind a little noise then they will be fine. But, if you are sensitive to noise (or have nosey neighbors who are) you might do better with a different species of bird.