The average lifespan of an Eclectus parrot is 25 and 35 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can live up to 50 years. The Eclectus parrots in the wild have much lesser life spans compared with the ones in captivity as they have to go through numerous natural stressors, whereas a pet parrot gets a balanced diet, enrichment activities, regular socialisations and timely veterinary care.
So, let’s get to know about the factors that influence the longevity of Eclectus parrots.
Factors that Influence the Lifespan of the Eclectus Parrots
Here are the factors affecting the longevity of the Eclectus parrots:
Gender Disparity
In Eclectus parrots, it has been seen that the females live longer when compared to their male counterparts and this is also associated with overcoming the challenges of the female to attain reproductive health. Studies show that males live for 30 to 40 years with proper care and females can reach up to 60 years.
Diet and Nutrition
If a proper diet and nutritious food are provided to the Eclectus parrots which includes fresh fruit, vegetables, high-quality pellets and a proper quantity of seeds, then they can stay healthy, increasing their longevity. However, certain toxic foods should be avoided such as caffeine, chocolate, avocado, alcohol and high sodium-rich food.
Living Condition
When the Eclectus parrots are provided with a suitable living condition or habitat, their lifespan increases. If it is a pet parrot, they need special care, regular exercise and a chance to carry on with their natural behaviour. Also, the placement of the cage, temperature, and humidity should create an optimal environment for the bird to stay healthy.
Social Interaction
Eclectus parrots are highly social birds and so they need social interaction and mental stimulation to stay mentally and physically healthy. If there is a lack of any of these, they would feel stressed, and bored which would affect their life span. They should be provided with foraging opportunities, provided with toys and puzzles, so that their overall well-being is maintained.
Genetic Factors
If there is a reduction in the likelihood of genetic diseases or predisposition, then it would increase the life of the Eclectus parrots. Thus, if you are trying to buy a parrot as a pet then you must always consider reputable breeders who prioritize the bird’s health.
Environmental Factors Affecting the Eclectus Parrot’s Lifespan
Here’s how environmental factors affect the lifespan of the Eclectus parrots:
Native Habitat
The health of a parrot is highly influenced by the native habitat where they live in tropical rainforests and they enjoy ample food sources and a humid climate. So, if you bring a pet, you have to mimic a similar environment and there should be proper temperature and humidity control.
Temperature and Climate
Variation in temperature and climate also has an impact on the health of the Eclectus parrots. If the parrot has to go through extreme temperatures be it cold or hot, it can prove to be detrimental for them. Thus, they need a stable and comfortable temperature range where they can live healthily and this also influences their lifespan.
Predators
Eclectus parrots can face predators in the wild, whose chances get reduced when they are in a domestic setting. Thus, the wild Eclectus parrot has a lesser lifespan when compared with a captive parrot. You also need to protect your pet parrot from potential harm, such as keeping the pet cat away or creating a bird-proof area in the house, so that they do not try to escape.
Human Induced
Eclectus parrots often get exposed to toxic substances which negatively impacts their lifespan. So, it is important to keep them away from harmful chemicals, household cleaners, and fuels. Also, they should be kept away from exposure to smoke, cigarettes, aerosols, and fumes and this would help them to live a healthy life.
What is the Nutritional Requirement to Extend Parrot’s Lifespan?
A properly balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, pellets, and seeds which would prevent nutritional deficiency or other associated problems should be given to Eclectus parrots. Fruit and vegetables should be present every day in their diet, including bananas, apples, grapes, and bell peppers and should be balanced in such a way that they get their daily dose of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
If they have any specific nutritional need, then high-quality pellets can be provided which maintains a consistency in providing the essential nutrient to the body. However, it should be without artificial flavor, dyes and preservatives. There are always certain foods that are toxic to the Eclectus parrots, such as chocolate, caffeine, avocado and alcohol which should be strictly avoided. You should educate yourself about the do’s and don’ts of feeding an Eclectus parrot.
How to Cope with Hormonal Changes in Male Eclectus Parrots?
During the breeding season, the male Eclectus parrots go through hormonal changes which affect their behaviour and overall health. They require a comfortable and stable environment so that they can keep a consistent routine which would minimize the negative impact caused by hormonal fluctuation.
What are the Reproductive Health Challenges Faced by Eclectus Parrots?
The prominent reproductive health challenge faced by Eclectus parrots is egg binding, which is a condition where the egg gets stuck in the reproductive tract and becomes life-threatening. Thus, regular veterinary check-ups, suitable nesting options and monitoring their calcium level are important to keep them healthy and increase their lifespan.
How Can You Provide Optimum Care for the Eclectus Parrots?
To ensure that the Eclectus parrots have the proper health conditions and to extend their lifespan, you must provide them with a nutritious diet, mental stimulation, a suitable living environment and a scope for social interaction. They must also be taken to regular veterinary check-ups to detect the possibility of any potential issue at the earliest. Also, in the case of female parrots, it is important to closely monitor reproductive health during the breeding season.
Which is the Oldest Eclectus Parrot?
The oldest Eclectus parrot is known to have lived for 50 years, where the average lifespan is 30 to 40 years in captivity and 25 to 30 years in the wild.
