Gina and Keith, the Crimson Rosellas
By Bird Club member Julie Forsyth

Hi there we are Gina and Keith.  We are Crimson Rosellas, our scientific name is Platycercus Elegans.  We are native to east and south east Australia, but have also been introduced to New Zealand and Norfolkk Island.  We are commonly found in, but not restricted to mountains, forests and gardens.

Young Crimson Rosellas have the characteristic blue cheeks of our species, but the remainder of the body plumage is green-olive to yellowish olive (occasionally red in some areas).  The young bird gradually attains the adult plumage over a period of 15 months. 

Crimson Rosellas are normally encountered in small flocks and are easily attracted to garden seed trays.  Once familiar with humans, they will accept hand held food.  Natural foods include the seeds of the eucalyptus, grasses and shrubs, as well as insects and some tree blossoms.

These birds measure about 32cm-36cm (12-14 inches).  About the same size as a Yellow Conure.

Their loudest call is a brassy 'kweek kweek".  They are a bird for a large aviary rather than a small cage.

They like to fly around their house.  They are wood chewers, too . . .  including there nest box, so be prepared to replace it as needed.

They like to "do their own thing".  Like spilling their seeds all over the cage bottom and the floor.  They are messy birds.  Tile floor works well for them as it's easy to clean up after them.   Crimson Rosellas are fun, pretty birds, but not perhaps the ideal pet for everyone. :)