About the Lineolated Parakeet
The lineolated parakeet (bolborynchus lineola), also known as a “linnie”, is a small parrot measuring about 6.5 inches in length, and weighing about 47 to 60 grams.
Linnies come in colors additional to the normal green; some of the most popular are cobalt, turquoise, mauve/slate (grey), creamino, and lutino.
Being bottom or ground feeders, lineolated parakeets are not known for their flying abilities. They instead roam the ground or about the trees to obtain their food. Linnies have an adaptation that allows them to navigate through trees easily: long toenails. Their nails grow faster than just about any other species’ and they need to be trimmed regularly.
For this reason, it is commonly suggested that you house your linnie in a cage that is wider or longer than it is tall to give the linnie room to run or scurry, length-wise.
The behavior of the lineolated parakeet is perhaps the most-favored characteristic. They are very gentle and docile, and are often referred to as “sweet clowns”, since they love to play.
Linnies are very unique, in that they have a few species-specific quirks such as their desire to burrow or hide (often referred to as “electric hugs”), and their love for showers (being misted). Oddly enough, lineolated parakeets love to hang upside down, and they also rest at a downward angle where their head is lower than the perch.
Lineolated parakeets are very quiet birds, except when excited (at which point, their loud chirping will not persist for more than a few minutes). They make unique and cute sounds and vocalizations. Due to their quiet nature, they are regarded as a good choice for apartment dwellers.
Linnies also have astounding vocal and speech capabilities. Unlike most other species, both male and female lineolated parakeets can learn to speak quite well.
Lineolated parakeets are not yet a very popular species; very few know of their existence. However, once introduced, people rarely look back and they instantly fall in love with a linnie. Due to their lack of fame, linnies are not as readily-available as other common parrots are. Locating a reputable lineolated parakeet breeder often takes time and effort.
We invite you to browse our collection of articles to expand your knowledge on the care and information of linnies. Articles are sorted into relevant and appropriate categories for your ease.
We also encourage you to check out our Linnie Forum community, where linnie lovers and enthusiasts worldwide can congregate to share their passion: lineolated parakeets. Our forum includes many sections pertaining to various aspects of linnie care; check it out and enjoy!
