Caique

Guide Note

Caiques are a species of parrot native to South America that have become popular as pets in the United States. Caiques are small birds ranging from five to six ounces. They are known for being funny, playful and daring. There are two species: the slightly larger white bellied caiques and the black headed caiques.^{1 2}

Fast Facts

1. Two species: White-bellied and black-headed²
2. Black-headed caiques are slightly smaller than white bellied caiques²
3. Acrobatic and daring²
4. Require discipline from a young age²
5. Punish with cage time²
6. Known to hair-surf by holding on and rubbing it's breast on a person's hair²

As with most birds, caiques may startle and try to fly. They may injure themselves by flying into windows, mirrors, water or hot surfaces. Clipping the wings can prevent flight. The first clipping should not be done before the caique knows how to fly, as flying gives chest strength, balance and confidence. Learning to land is also essential as it prevents injuries when falling. Once a bird is able to fly several feet it's time to clip its wings. With adult birds, clipping should be done once or twice a year after molting is complete or if the bird begins to fly again.¹

Clipping feathers can be dangerous. If a blood-feather is clipped the bird may bleed to much. If considering clipping a caique at home, get advice and instructions from a veterinarian before proceeding. Usually clipping five to seven flight feathers is enough to keep a caique from flying. Always clip symmetrically.¹

Clip birds nails when needed to prevent injury to its handlers. There are some manicure perches available which will wear down nails. Occasionally it will still be necessary to trim even if a manicure perch is used. Get some bird nail clippers and have some septic powder handy in case of bleeds. Get someone to help hold the bird. Clip about two millimeters off of the end, being careful not to clip past the quick, the live skin underneath the nail. Use a nail file if the nail is still sharp. Apply septic powder if any bleeds happen. Work quickly and carefully to prevent the bird from getting too stressed.¹