I would like information and advice on the eclectus parrot, and whether or not it would be a good fit for our family. My husband and I are forty-something. We have one son in college and another in high school. We both work full-time. I leave early and get home by 3:30. My husband a little later. We have had cockatiels and golden retrievers for years. My golden is sick, my younger son is leaving for college in a couple of years...and faced with an imminent empty nest, I am considering a larger parrot.

The eclectus, aside from its beauty, seems to be the right size for me, not too big, not too small. What can you tell me about them? I have read the archives, and googled them, but some of the information seems contradictory. One website says they have no personality, and are not good talkers. Another says just the opposite.

Also, I would like to go meet them. How do I find a reputable breeder or bird store? I live in Santa Rosa, ...Northern CA.

Thanks, Ann

Welcome to Parrotchatter!

Ekkies are beautiful birds! I have never met one face to face, but I've seen some gorgeous pictures on here.

I don't know much about them, never having spent any time around them, but I do know that they have very special dietary needs. Most people agree that they should be on an all fresh diet, with no pellets.

I'm sure people who are owned by these beautiful parrots will be chiming in soon. Best of luck in finding the perfect parrot for you!

hello Ann, and welcome. I live a bit south of you in Marina, near Monterey.
Yeah I remember reading somewhere that Ekkies are quiet and reclusive birds. NOT. Sophie has a very strong personality, very independent. She isn't much of a cuddler (new word) but loves attention. Ekkies can talk up a storm. I have been told that the red sided talks the most. Who knows. They talk when they want if they want.
Due to the many sub species there is a wide size variance with Ekkies as well. From about 330g to 550g.

Hi there! I'm in the Nor Cal area too...South Bay near San Jose

Ekkies are great...so long as you can provide them the diet they need. They have longer digestive systems that require a more fresh food (ie veggies and fruits) and some don't take to pellets.

Females are known for being stubborn and domineering but that is just a generalization. They are the dominant one of the pairs so most are that way. I love, I do mean LOVE the male ekkies though. I currently keep two. Males are docile and sweet (atleast mine have been)

Most websites that aren't devoted to ekkies are wrong. They are FULL of personality just don't compare them to a cockatoo! They aren't really 'cuddly' birds persay but mine love sitting with me and I can pat their heads. That was I was looking for in a bird...

Oh and if you haven't been to Land of Vos (Land of Vos Eclectus - Main Page)...please go there...now! It is the best site for anything eclectus.

Please ask as many questions as you can, it's great that you are doing the research first!

Dani

Yup Eckie's are great, my little one is coming home in around 8 weeks now. I am so glad I am doing the research BEFORE I bring her home. I think I would have had a major panic attack if I had bought her home then found out all the In's and Out's about them. Read, ask alot of questions then repeat (till you get annoying and people tell you to go away ) that's what I do.

Hi Ann! Welcome! I love Eclectus, but they are not for everyone. They are quite docile - not real clowny birds by any means. I just love them! I probably favor the males over the females, although I do not know many who have females who cannot say anything but good about them. I think it is when you introduce the males to the mix that the females become more hormonal. But, they have my vote! And I'd have to vote for a male red sided. Good luck! Make sure you look into their diet. All birds should have tons of fresh foods in their diet, but with Eclectus, it's a must. They best diet for them is all fresh, although it is next to impossible for those of us who work to provide that diet.

oh I get it. Now ur callin' Sophie a weirdo!!

Yep...your Sophie is an oddball

Dani

My Ekkie, Mz. 'Clectus, has become a great bird, at least for me. She HATES my girlfriend, and all other female humane for that matter- I think that she sees them as competition. I have had to work with her a lot- she was a rehome from an abusive previous owner, and she didn't trust people. It has been a year, and we are coming along!

She is a great talker- Loves to interact vocally, but does NOT like touching. She is a great babysitter- she loves little kids, and talks to them constantly- which usually keeps them BOTH occupied.

Oh- She is a VOS hybrid- And a BIG girl, too. She happens to be one of the prettiest eclectus hens I have ever seen- Brilliant colors- and she KNOWS it... She is definatly a princess!

-Andrew

Andrew I don't think I have had the pleasure of seeing your girl. Would you be able to post a picture so I could better appreciate her beauty? She sounds so pretty, a definate princess for sure!