Kakariki (the name comes from the Maori language and means "little parrot") are small birds with a body length of up to 24 cm. Like the night parrot, this bird often has green plumage with a yellow mark on the forehead, but yellow individuals with red spots on forehead. Sometimes the whole body of a bird is covered with multi-colored patches. Otherwise, pets can be called jumping birds or New Zealand parrots.
Outwardly, Kakarik looks funny and this view is consistent with the mischievous nature of the bird.
Depending on the type of plumage and the origin of all jumping parrots, they are divided into subspecies:
New Zealand is considered the birthplace of the first such parrots, where jumping birds originally lived in the forests, getting their food on the ground with the help of quick paws and beaks. They can be compared to a domestic chicken, which in the same way rakes grass and leaves on the ground. This parrot is not nocturnal.
For the first time, Kakarikov was brought to Europe in 1872 (they appeared in the London Zoo). Since then, they can be seen in ordinary apartments and private houses. However, this type of parrot is considered quite rare due to the extinction of birds. It is possible to save the population, since Kakariki are quickly tamed and able to breed in captivity.
The maintenance of Kakarika differs markedly from the care of other parrots. This bird is so fast that its owner simply cannot keep track of the speed of the pet's movements. He is interested in any cracks and holes in the room, and he will certainly try to climb into them one by one. That is why great care must be taken when Kakarik flies around the room.
There are frequent cases of injury to these parrots flying into shoes, under pillow cases, into pockets, ovens, drawers, and so on. The hosts of the Kakarikov check the bedspreads and the crevices of the chairs before sitting on their surface. At the same time, the maintenance of this bird obliges the owner to let it fly in the room for at least several hours in the morning and evening.
Unlike other parrots, in which the period of activity is divided into morning and evening, Kakarik can be active throughout the day.
Another feature of the New Zealand parrot is its voice, which is distinguished by a quiet timbre. Only during the period of inviting a sexual partner can a parrot scream. The rest of the time he behaves quite quietly, but at the same time he scurries around and plays with everyone in a row. Kakariku does not fit standard cages or toys from the pet store. These birds feel better in indoor aviaries, and play with any means at hand. The owner can make swings, perches and other "tsatski" out of branches and boards for his pet. Birds also love to play with their food.
They love almost all grains, they love bread, fruits, vegetables. Juicy foods, such as cabbage, carrots, and apples, must be present in the bird's diet. Do not forget about clean water in the drinking bowl. Kakariku can buy a mixture for parrots, which the pet will be very happy with. For one feeding, a jumping bird needs to be given more food, as it tends to scatter its food.
