Derbyan Parrot – A Rare and Intelligent Aviary Companion for UAE Bird Enthusiasts

The Derbyan Parrot, scientifically known as Psittacula derbiana, is a lesser-known yet striking member of the parakeet family. Admired for its unique appearance, composed demeanor, and high intelligence, the Derbyan Parrot makes an excellent choice for avian hobbyists in the UAE who are looking for a talking parrot with personality and charm.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we offer hand-raised, socialized Derbyan parrots that are well-suited to life in UAE homes. Whether you’re an experienced bird keeper or a serious enthusiast ready for a long-term feathered companion, the Derbyan stands out as an elegant and rewarding choice.

Appearance and Physical Traits

The Derbyan Parrot is a medium-to-large parakeet with a distinctive look. Males have a lavender-grey head, a black lower mandible, a green body, and a broad pink band across the upper chest. Females look similar but have a lighter mandible color, helping to distinguish genders visually.

These birds typically reach a length of 48 to 55 cm and have a relatively slim build despite their impressive wingspan and long tail feathers. Their vivid coloration and sleek frame give them a graceful yet exotic appearance that immediately catches attention.

In the UAE pet market, Derbyan parrots are considered a rare find, prized for both their beauty and temperament.

Behavior and Personality

The Derbyan Parrot is intelligent, calm, and relatively quiet compared to more vocal parrot species. It is highly observant and prefers to build trust gradually with its owners. With consistent handling and positive reinforcement, this parrot becomes a loyal and affectionate companion.

Though not as talkative as some Amazon or African Grey parrots, the Derbyan is capable of mimicking words and short phrases with clarity. Its speech is deliberate, and its mimicry improves with daily interaction.

In terms of behavior, Derbyans are:

• Intelligent and quick learners

• Social but not overly demanding

• Enjoy quiet, structured environments

• Less prone to aggressive or erratic outbursts

They are ideally suited for UAE households looking for a refined bird that enjoys interaction without being overly clingy.

Housing and Environment in the UAE

Due to their active nature and long tail, Derbyan parrots need a spacious enclosure. A cage size of at least 36 x 30 x 48 inches is recommended, with horizontal bars for climbing and exercise.

Housing tips for UAE conditions:

• Keep the cage indoors, away from direct sunlight or AC drafts

• Offer a perch variety, including natural wood branches

• Include chew toys and mental enrichment items

• Maintain indoor temperatures between 22°C and 28°C

Although not overly noisy, Derbyans enjoy observing their environment. Placing their cage in a bright, low-traffic area of the home helps them remain mentally engaged without stress.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced and varied diet is essential for maintaining the health, energy, and feather condition of a Derbyan parrot. These birds do well on a combination of high-quality pellets, fresh produce, and limited seeds.

Daily feeding plan:

• Parrot or ringneck pellets as a staple

• Fresh fruits such as apple, melons, papayas, and berries

• Vegetables like carrots, spinach, bell peppers, and green beans

• Occasional seeds and raw, unsalted nuts

• Fresh water provided daily in a clean dish

Avoid feeding them avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and any food with added salt or sugar.

Lifespan and Long-Term Commitment

With proper care, Derbyan parrots can live between 25 to 35 years. They are a medium-commitment parrot compared to larger macaws but still require a stable routine and social interaction.

To ensure a happy and well-adjusted Derbyan, owners should:

• Provide 1–2 hours of daily interaction or supervised out-of-cage time

• Maintain a calm, enriching environment

• Regularly rotate toys to prevent boredom

• Establish a predictable feeding and sleeping schedule

At Sahara Exotics, each Derbyan Parrot is carefully raised to be comfortable with human interaction. We also offer guidance on housing, diet, and training for new and experienced bird owners in the UAE.