The Solomon Island Eclectus (Eclectus roratus solomonensis)

The Compact Socialite of the Islands

The Solomon Island Eclectus is the most popular subspecies of Eclectus in the pet world. As the name suggests, they are native to the Solomon Islands, as well as the Bismarck Archipelago and Bougainville.

While they share the same stunning sexual dimorphism as the Red-sided Eclectus, the “Solomon” is known for being slightly smaller, more social, and arguably the best “family bird” among the Eclectus subspecies. They are the perfect size for most households and have a reputation for being remarkably steady.

The Visual Difference

• The Male: Features the classic neon-emerald green body. Compared to the Red-sided, the Solomon male has a slightly more “yellowish” tint to his green and a shorter tail.

• The Female: She is a brilliant scarlet red with a bold, royal blue bib on her breast and a blue ring around her eyes. Unlike the Red-sided female (which has darker violet tones), the Solomon female’s blue is bright and electric.

Key Characteristics

• Manageable Size: They are the smallest of the commonly kept Eclectus subspecies, making them easier to handle and house in standard large parrot cages.

• “Puppy-Like” Personality: Solomon Island Eclectus are often described as being more “outgoing” than their larger cousins. They tend to be more curious and less prone to the “freeze” response when meeting new people.

• Master Mimics: They have soft, sweet voices. They are known for mimicking not just words, but the exact tone of different family members, often leading to confusion about who is talking in the other room!

• Low-Dust Birds: Unlike Cockatoos or African Greys, Eclectus are not “powder down” birds. They are an excellent choice for owners with mild allergies or those who prefer a cleaner home.

Quick Facts

Care & Nutrition Essentials

Like all Eclectus, the Solomon Island variety has a specialized digestive system that requires a “natural” approach:

• The “Toe-Tapping” Warning: Because they absorb nutrients so efficiently, they are prone to “over-vitaminization.” Avoid pellets with synthetic dyes or artificial supplements, as these can cause involuntary muscle spasms (toe-tapping).

• High-Moisture Diet: In the wild, they eat watery fruits and seeds. They need a diet rich in sprouts, soaked beans, pomegranate, papaya, and steamed sweet potatoes.

• Bath Lovers: They must be bathed or misted frequently. Their unique hair-like feathers can become brittle and “frazzled” without high humidity and regular water.

Is a Solomon Island Eclectus Right for You?

If you want the beauty of a Red-sided Eclectus but in a slightly smaller, more “socially brave” package, the Solomon Island is the gold standard. They are ideal for families who want a bird that is intelligent and talking-capable but maintains a peaceful, meditative energy in the home.