The Regent Parrot or Rock Pebbler (Polytelis anthopeplus) is a bird of the parrot family, and also is known as the Black-tailed, Black-throated, Marlock Parrot or Smoker Parrot. Rock Pebbler parrots can be social, gentle, and surprisingly gratifying companion pet birds that are also attractive, hardy and relatively easy to care for. The male has brilliant yellow plummage with a green tail. Regent parrots are popular birds in a pet aviary and have a distinct whistle. The male bird is generally yellow, with several shades on the head, its back is generally a collection of colorful shades of green and its beak generally red. The female is generally more green, overall, especially in the head and body. The tail is green, although the underparts are black.
Geography: Rock Pebbler’s are found primarily in eucalyptus groves and other wooded areas of subtropical southwestern Australia, as well as in a smaller area of subtropical and temperate southeastern Australia.
Size: about 14.5-16.5 in length
Temperament: Regent Parrots can be independent and amuse themselves, given a large enough flight, so busy people might take a second look at the Regent Parrot. An occasional fresh willow or fruit tree branch to “spruce up” their quarters seems to please the birds. The regent parrot is naturally hardy, so being careful to protect them from drafts and the like is unnecessary. However, they should be protected from excessive cold, as such is uncommon in their natural habitat.
Breeding: Breeders should be kept in pairs rather than colonies, because they might quarrel with each other, but pairs or individuals have been kept harmoniously with other gentle species like cockatiels.
Vocals: They may not learn to talk, but they can often learn to whistle. The Regent Parrot’s distinctive call is often heard long before the birds appear.
Diet: Captive regent parrots thrive on chopped mixtures for large parrots. Seeds make up the bulk of the Regent Parrot’s diet. Try our nutritious Parakeet Seed, millet sprays, and eggfood. They aslo enjoy fruit, sprouting seeds and a small assortment of insects. Unlike most birds, parrots do not require grit in their diet and grit should only be given when a certified avian veterinarian prescribes it for digestion aid if the bird is ill.
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DNA Testing
If there is no gender option listed for a bird on our website, that particular species is ‘monomorphic’, which means we’re unable to determine gender without purchasing DNA testing. DNA testing is an additional $149 per bird to guarantee preferred gender. DNA testing may add an additional 3-6 plus weeks to estimated delivery time to allow for gender results. See our FAQs for more info.
