Psittacus eupatrius, L.

Alexander Parrakeet (Ger., Rothschulteriger Edelsittich mit rosen-rothem Halsband, Grosser Alexandersittich, blos Alexander-sittich, rothschulteriger Edelsittich, Hochedelsittich; Fr., Grande Perruche Alexandre, Grande Perruche d'Alexandre; Dut., Groote Alexander-Parkiet) - Description - Habitat - Character in Captivity.

Although not so common in the market as the preceding species, and though very rarely imported until lately, this parrakeet is nevertheless universally known, and appears to be essentially a larger copy of the other. It was first described and delineated by Edwards (1747-1764), and scientifically named by Linne.

The adult male is grass-green, the hinder part of the neck and the upper part of the breast having a faint greyish-green shade; on the back of the neck there is a broad rose-coloured band, this unites at both sides of the neck with a black band, which begins at the base of the under mandible and covers the upper part of the throat; the back is pure green; the smallest covert feathers under the wing form a large brownish cherry-coloured spot; the tail feathers are bluish on the basal half, dark olive greenish-yellow on the reverse side; beak dark purplish-red; eyes yellowish-white; feet flesh-colour; claws blackish. The female has no red on the neck, and no black band on the upper part of the throat; yet it has the red spot under the wing; the beak is red. As to the plumage of the young bird (that is, in the state in which they come into the market), the upper part of the body is more a greyish olive-green; the under part yellowish-green; there is no trace of the band on the neck and throat, nor of the spot on the shoulder; the eyes are yellowish-white. It is fully the size of a pigeon (length, 15 3/4in. to I7 3/4in.; wings, 7in. to 8 3/4in.; longest feather of the tail, Sin. to 12 1/4in.; outer feathers of the tail, 2 7/8in. to 3 1/2in.).

ALEXANDRINE PARRAKEET.

(Psittacus eupatrius.)

It is found throughout East India and in Ceylon, and is said to be especially numerous on the Indian Peninsula.

In Ceylon the young are frequently taken from the nest, brought up by hand, and trained. This species is esteemed there, as among us, as affording one of the most accomplished speakers and, in all respects, cleverest parrots. Several admirers and connoisseurs have lately described its habits in captivity, especially Mr. E. Lieb, of Palmyra, in South Russia, and Dr. Steinhausen, of Strasburg. The former speaks of this parrakeet as exceedingly clever and intelligent, but remarks that its cry is unbearable, even the shrill voice of the Amazon Parrots being trifling in comparison. Dr. Steinhausen adds, however, that it is terrible to the ears of its keeper only when it feels wearied, dull, and uncomfortable, or wishes for something which is temptingly held out to it, or if it is annoyed at the appearance of a stranger. "At other times it is extremely affectionate, takes its food from one's mouth, gives kisses, and chatters almost the whole day - talking, although without great variety, but with exceeding clearness and with a pleasing voice; the feeling tone which it gives, for example, to the word 'Girawa' - its name - being specially noticeable. The similarity of its voice to that of a human being, its capability of expressing tenderness, and of varying the tone, is astonishing, and the infinite longing expressed in it is often most touching. We must also mention in its praise that it always keeps its plumage clean and smooth. If a walnut (a fruit of which it is very fond) be given to it, it makes a peculiar use of the empty shell. It will not then drink in any but the following fashion : It holds the shell with its beak, and fills it carefully with water, and then returning to its feeding place, sips this." Several attempts have been made to breed this species, but, up to the present, without success. It commends itself as a general favourite by reason of its beauty, tameness, and gentleness; and, if treated properly, it will become so in a much greater degree than is now the case.

I have to caution the amateur not to disregard the remarks on training made on page 34, nor to buy without consideration such an arch-screamer as is described above. Otherwise, he must not reckon on being rewarded for the trouble he may take with the bird.