05/31/2026
It's World Parrot Day!
What better way to celebrate than to use this as an opportunity to brag about our very own parrots.
First is our Black Parrot, Mama!
Black Parrots are native to Madagascar and while they're listed as Least Concern, the truth is that there hasn't been enough research done to know for sure just how many of this species are left in the wild. Their primary threats are habitat loss and being hunted by local communities for food and to prevent damage to their crops.
Mama was born in 1999 at the Sacramento Zoo. She then came to live here at Micke Grove Zoo in 2011 after living at the National Aviary in Pittsburg for 10 years. She loves walnuts and trying to eat as many figs as possible before her keepers can prune her tree. She also does a great Red-tailed Hawk impression!
Next we have our two Red-fan Parrots, Chaz and Raz!
Red-fan Parrots are native to the Amazon Rainforest and are listed as Least Concern. That being said, this species still faces threats from habitat loss and being captured for the illegal pet trade. They get their name 'Red-fan' because they can stick their red neck feathers up, which forms a fan shape. It is believed they use this as an intimidation tactic, making them look bigger.
Chaz and Raz are brothers and they were surrendered to our zoo in 2002 from someone who kept them as a pet. While Red-fan Parrots can be kept as a companion animal, they are notorious for being ill-tempered, stubborn, and can show extreme aggression towards humans. Chaz and Raz are a great example as to why you should do plenty of research before getting a pet, especially an exotic one. Now the boys spend their days tearing up enrichment and eating snacks!
Photo credit: Skyler Kriz
