A V I A N    A D D I C T I O N
Lineolated Parakeets

Lineolated parakeets have to be one of the cutest birds around. With their big round eyes and smooth talking ways, they are sure to win hearts with one meeting. Linnies, as they are called, are small birds hailing from the mountains of South America. There they live high in the treetops in groups of 20+ birds. Linnies have been kept in Europe much longer than they have been in the states and we see more mutations there than here. The normal color is green. Mutations of green are produced by dark factors which show as dark green and olive colored birds. There is no true blue in this species, but a par blue does exist. The normal par blue bird is a turquoise color and the dark factors of this mutation will appear as cobalt and mauve, or slate. There is also an ino mutation producing a yellow bird in the green series and a cream bird in the blue series. Other mutations exist such as the grey wing where the black on the bird is grey or brown.

Sexing a Lineolated is done by DNA testing or surgically. The ino gene is sex linked so it is sometimes possible to determine the sex on these mutations. Linnies are great climbers and most prefer to climb around the cages rather than fly. They are however good flyers and need to be out of the cage for exercise as much as possible. Linnies love their toys but care must be given as to the toy provided. Their toenails grow quickly and will curl if not kept trimmed and can get caught in certain fibers or toys.

Linnies are great talkers and some pick up words before they are 2 months old. They have a clear, sweet voice that is quiet and calm. Linnies are the perfect pet for those who enjoy an interactive bird without the extra noise.

Diet consists of lots of fruits and veggies, seeds, and a few pellets. Feeding fruits and veggies, including beans, is important to the overall health of this species. Linnies are great breeders and the young wean at 6 to 8 weeks of age. Some have referred to this species as the “potato chip” bird because you can’t just have one!

Additional birds available from Avian Addiction       Parrotlets        Green Cheek Conures        Finches

 For more information - Peggy Duval -  avianaddiction@yahoo.com or call 757-623-4786                Return to Main Page