Pionus Maximilian basic information

The Maximilian Pionus is a medium sized parrot, measuring 11.5 to 12 inches (29 to 30 centimeters) at maturity. They are the larges Pionus. Like other Pionus species, males and females cannot be distinguished visually. DNA or surgical sexing is required to differentiate males from females. Of all the Pionus species the Maximilian is the least colorful and some describe them as looking "unkempt" because it is not unusual for their down feathers to peak out from their plumage. They have a dark, muted olive green plumage. In direct sunlight, however, their plumage appears iridescent. Like other Pionus species the underside of their tails are red. They have violet blue bands on their necks and throats and nearly black lores. The feathers on their heads are outlined in dark grey and this gives the appearance of scales, which explains their unusual name. They have a dark brown iris and grey feet. Immatures can be distinguished from adults by the presence of red on their foreheads.