1/12/2007

1/12/2007

1/17/2007

1/17/2007

1/25/2007

1/25/2007

1/30/2007

1/30/2007

2/9/2007

2/9/2007

These are Green Aracaris (Pteroglossus viridis).  The Green Aracari is the smallest of the toucan family (Rhamphastidae) and is also one of the most affectionate.  In our experience, it is clear that larger toucans, even when handfed, need a great deal of space but the smaller species are perfect for those who have the suitable space and the taste for the more exotic softbill.  This is strictly our opinion and we encourage you to consult other breeders for a wider variety of opinions.

The pictures at the top are babies being handfed.  Note the drab color before they have feathered into beautiful, colorful adults!  They absolutely love human attention and respond whenever they see us! 

Cricket, in the last two pictures above, is our mascot and is easily cared for, getting a daily diet of Mazuri ZuLife Softbill pellets, apples, pears, grapes & other fruits, as well as some leafy green vegetables here and there.  She was handfed and has made an excellent addition to our collection!  We now have pairs of Green Aracaris set up for breeding and they're doing very well.  Special thanks to Paula at Pippins Roost (www.pippinsroost.com) for her expertise!

DIET INCLUDES:
Organic fruits such as apples, pears, banana, papaya, blueberries, grapes, melon, and other seasonal, non-citrus fruits.  They also receive organic greens one to two times weekly and lory powder sprinkled over their food twice weekly. We strongly suggest avoiding any fruit from South America, especially Chile, due to the harmful pesticides used.  Even when cleaned they can be dangerous.  Grapes are a well-known culprit.
All fresh foods are mixed with Mazuri ZuLife pellets after they've been soaked but dry Mazuri pellets are also left in the cage at all times.

Everyone should know that our waiting list has been informed we have chicks available.  If you would like more information on these species, feel free to email us as we expect babies to be available this summer.   You may email us for information as we are dedicated to the promotion of ethical aviculture.