The term "high pied" in parrots refers to a specific plumage coloration where the bird exhibits predominantly light-colored feathers, with only a small amount of darker feathers. This contrasts with other color variations and is a key characteristic for identification and breeding.
What Do "High Pied" and "Low Pied" Mean for Parrots?
Understanding the difference between high pied, low pied, and intermediate pied is crucial when discussing parrot color variations.
1. Low Pied:
A "low pied" parrot is characterized by a majority of dark-colored feathers, with only a minimal presence of lighter feathers. The darker plumage dominates the overall appearance of the bird.
2. High Pied:
Conversely, a "high pied" parrot displays predominantly light-colored feathers, with only a limited amount of darker feathers. This creates a striking visual contrast compared to low pied varieties. This is what this article focuses on.
3. Intermediate Pied:
Defining an "intermediate pied" can be more complex. These birds typically exhibit a mix of dark and light feathers in patches or other patterns, with the flight feathers often being primarily yellow or white. While there are more light-colored feathers than in a low pied, they don’t reach the prevalence seen in high pied birds. This intermediate state shows a blend that doesn't strictly lean towards either end of the spectrum.
High and Low Pied in Lovebirds: What Does It Mean?
The concept of high and low pied refers to the percentage of mixed coloration within the feathers of birds like lovebirds. High pied is often more valued and harder to produce due to its rarity, where there is a high percentage of light feathering. Low pied describes birds with a greater quantity of dark feathers compared to light feathers, making them more common.
High pied refers to the quantity of irregular colors present. For instance, in crossbreeding, the "pied" part shows the amount of color mixing, and high pied means a large quantity of mixed, lighter coloration.
These parrots typically display specific characteristics:
1. The main body color is green with a red-orange forehead, lores, cheeks, and throat. These vibrant facial feathers are key identification factors.
2. The crown and the back of the head are olive green, contrasting with the facial coloring.
3. The upper chest and neck are an orange-yellow, adding further color differentiation.
4. The flanks, abdomen, and under-tail coverts are a yellow-green, while the upper tail is blue and the under-wing coverts are blue-green. This mix of greens and blues adds to the overall beauty of the bird.
5. Distinctive features include a wide white eye-ring, a red beak, and brown irises. Juvenile birds have darker body coloration and beaks with black hues. These features are essential in identifying the age and specific characteristics of the bird.
Understanding these different colorations and their genetic basis is vital for both breeders and bird enthusiasts. The term "high pied" specifically highlights the dominance of light coloration, making it a unique and valued trait in parrots.