Jardine’s Parrot for Sale: Price, Personality and Care Guide

The Jardine’s parrot is one of the best-kept secrets among mid-size parrots. It is playful, athletic and affectionate, usually quieter than Amazons and conures, and small enough for many homes. If you are searching for a Jardine parrot for sale, here is what you need to know about the species, what it costs and how it compares with its better-known cousins.

Jardine’s parrot quick facts

What does a Jardine’s parrot look like?

It is a stocky green parrot with a short, square tail and orange-red markings on the forehead, the bend of the wings and the thighs. Adults and young birds look similar, though young birds can be duller. The Jardine’s belongs to the Poicephalus group, which also includes the Senegal and Meyer’s parrots.

Jardine’s parrot personality

Jardine’s are known for being energetic, curious and acrobatic. They love toys, foraging and learning tricks, and many enjoy being sprayed with water. They are intelligent and strong-willed, so they need consistent boundaries. Without enough stimulation they can get bored and may pluck feathers or act out. Like all Poicephalus parrots, individual personality varies a lot, and early socialization matters as much as species. A well-handled baby from a good breeder is usually outgoing and confident.

Jardine’s vs Meyer’s vs Senegal

All three are good choices for people who want a mid-size parrot without the volume of larger species. The differences are subtle:

• Jardine’s. The largest of the three, with a bigger beak and a very playful, athletic personality.
• Meyer’s. Often calmer and more laid back. See our Meyer’s Parrot guide.
• Senegal. Famous for its bold personality and popularity as a pet. See our Senegal Parrot guide.

You can also compare the related Brown Headed Parrot, another smaller Poicephalus species.

Jardine’s parrot price

Jardine’s parrots are less widely bred than Senegals, which keeps prices higher than for common small parrots. Breeder pricing varies with age, hand-raising and location, and often lands in the low-to-mid thousands of dollars, so confirm the current figure with the breeder rather than relying on a general number. A price far below the market is a red flag. Use our guide to choosing a reputable parrot breeder and ask for DNA sexing (see why in our DNA sexing guide).

Are Jardine’s parrots good for apartments?

Often, yes. They are not known for the sustained screaming of larger parrots, and their size makes housing manageable. They can still make loud, shrill calls, so they are not silent. Plan for a roomy cage, daily time outside it and plenty of chewable toys. See our best parrot toys by size for ideas.

Care checklist

• Diet. Pellets as the base, with fresh vegetables and fruit, and seeds or nuts as treats only. Review foods toxic to parrots.
• Space. A cage large enough for climbing and flapping, plus daily out-of-cage time.
• Enrichment. Foraging toys, shreddables and training sessions.
• Health. Annual avian vet visits. Know the warning signs your parrot is sick.
• Behavior. Be consistent, and read how to stop parrot biting if nipping starts.

Is a Jardine’s parrot right for you?

It suits first-time mid-size parrot owners who can give daily interaction, as well as experienced owners who want a smaller parrot with big personality. It is not ideal if you want a bird that is content to sit quietly alone for long hours. Because Jardine’s can live 20 to 30 years or longer, compare it with other species on our parrot lifespan chart. If you are still deciding, our best parrots for beginners and best talking parrots ranked guides can help.

How to find a Jardine’s parrot

Check our More Parrots category for current birds, or contact Mo to ask about availability. We ship nationwide: see the shipping page.

Frequently asked questions

Are Jardine’s parrots good pets?

Yes. They are playful, intelligent and affectionate, and well suited to owners who can provide enrichment and daily interaction.

Are Jardine’s parrots loud?

They are generally quieter than conures and Amazons, but they can produce shrill calls, especially when excited.

Can Jardine’s parrots talk?

They can learn a vocabulary and mimic sounds, though their speech is usually not as clear as that of an African Grey.

How long do Jardine’s parrots live?

Commonly 20 to 30 years, and sometimes longer, with good care.

What is the difference between Jardine’s and Senegal parrots?

Jardine’s are larger with a bigger beak and very athletic, while Senegals are smaller and famously bold. Both are Poicephalus parrots.

How much does a Jardine’s parrot cost?

Typically more than a common small parrot, depending on age and hand-raising. Confirm with the breeder and avoid very cheap listings.