They differ greatly from the Amazons, however in their lack of the hormonal surges and mood-swings typical of Amazons during the breeding season. Their steadiness of temperament is a real plus in households with noisy children & lots of activity. One breeder-friend described them as "the only bird I know that I can confidently take to a grade school and pass around among 135 children."

      Jardine’s are said to be "capable of large vocabularies and Grey-Parrot-like accuracy in mimicry."* Beyond their potential speaking ability, however, these extremely playful birds are famous for charming their owners with their cute, sideways swaggering gait, their love of lying on their backs (even on branches), their goofy ways and a general love for fun.

     In appearance they differ from the Amazons in having larger beaks and a "plumper" build. This gives them a kind of "stuffed toy" or "cartoon parrot" look many find very endearing.

     Jardine’s are native to a broad band that stretches across central Africa. The subspecies we breed (P. g. fanteinsis) hails from the lowland rainforests of the western part of the continent. They are jungle birds, as evidenced by their exotic, musical calls. They are quiet parrots, however, as most poicephalus are, making them a nice choice for apartment and condo dwellers, as well as anyone else for whom sound levels are a consideration.

      Jardine’s Parrots were virtually unheard of in the pet trade a decade ago, but are quickly gaining popularity these days because of their excellent pet qualites. This is a great bird for anyone wanting a personality parrot with good talking potential and a steady temperament.

* Mattie Sue Athan Guide to the Senegal Parrot and it’s Family , 1998 Barron’s Press.