Kakariki Keets
Kakariki's In the Wild
Kakarikis are native to New Zealand.
There are several species, most of which are endangered or extinct. New Zealand is a small bunch of islands southeast of Australia and like most islands it has very unique wildlife.
Behavior
They are usually observed in pairs or small groups in treetops or on outer branches of bushes outside the breeding season. Pairs may remain alone throughout year, but these parakeets usually form small flocks.
They often forage on or near the ground. They gather at springs and water holes on islands with limited water supply to drink and bathe. Occasionally flocks fly to neighboring islands to forage.
These are very curious birds that will get into anything and try to play with anything that is within their reach, luckily as they are very small they are not very destructive, and watching them trying to cart off something that is obviously far too big for them can be very comical. They will fit into any home environment getting along with any family members, young or old, who are willing to give them their time, they generally have no fear of cats or dogs and will not be off put by their presence although care is always recommended. Kakarikis do not make the best talkers but certain words can be understood especially when you are round them daily, where a kakariki will really stand out is in its ability to whistle, with enough repetition they will get most tunes quickly and clearly. Give these fun little birds your time and effort and they will give you so much more back.
They often forage on or near the ground. They gather at springs and water holes on islands with limited water supply to drink and bathe. Occasionally flocks fly to neighboring islands to forage.
These are very curious birds that will get into anything and try to play with anything that is within their reach, luckily as they are very small they are not very destructive, and watching them trying to cart off something that is obviously far too big for them can be very comical. They will fit into any home environment getting along with any family members, young or old, who are willing to give them their time, they generally have no fear of cats or dogs and will not be off put by their presence although care is always recommended. Kakarikis do not make the best talkers but certain words can be understood especially when you are round them daily, where a kakariki will really stand out is in its ability to whistle, with enough repetition they will get most tunes quickly and clearly. Give these fun little birds your time and effort and they will give you so much more back.
Lifespan
Kakarikis are a small parakeet that will live to around 15 years on average with some reaching into their 20′s. Good care and management can help you keep yours to that age.
Diet
Pelleted Diets are Highly recommended for Kakirikis. It has been found to increase their life expectancy significantly. Fresh water, changed regularly, is essential, and should be provided in a receptacle large enough for bathing - an activity in which the birds frequently indulge (and another reason which makes them unsuitable as birds for small cages).
Kakarikis will be happy with a parakeet diet of small seed and sunflower seeds, you can also offer parrot mix to make their diet more varied and interesting for them, to help the babies along they also may be given parakeet mix which is a very soft food for the babies but is also a great source of energy, vitamins and minerals. Fresh fruits and vegetables should also be offered daily to keep the diet varied and a good mix will encourage foraging behavior.
Kakarikis will be happy with a parakeet diet of small seed and sunflower seeds, you can also offer parrot mix to make their diet more varied and interesting for them, to help the babies along they also may be given parakeet mix which is a very soft food for the babies but is also a great source of energy, vitamins and minerals. Fresh fruits and vegetables should also be offered daily to keep the diet varied and a good mix will encourage foraging behavior.