Birds are some of the most visually stunning creatures on the planet, and among them, purple-feathered species stand out with their dazzling hues. These birds not only captivate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts but also spark curiosity about their care and pet potential. From glossy violet hues to iridescent purple tones, these winged wonders inhabit various habitats around the world. Let’s look at 12 remarkable purple birds and insights on whether they make suitable pets.

1. Purple Grenadier

The purple grenadier is a beautifully colored seed-eating bird native to Eastern Africa, including Kenya and Tanzania. Males exhibit a striking combination of chestnut brown, red heads, and purplish-blue bodies, while females feature cinnamon-brown plumage. Their vibrant colors make them visually appealing, and their preference for tropical shrublands provides a picturesque environment. While they are sometimes kept as aviary birds, their sensitive nature and specific dietary needs make them best suited for experienced avian caretakers rather than casual pet owners.

2. Violet-Backed Starling

The violet-backed starling is a small, vibrant bird native to Sub-Saharan Africa. Males dazzle with bright, iridescent violet feathers above and white plumage below, while females are more subdued with streaky brown coloring. These starlings thrive in open woodlands, clearings, and gallery forests. Their striking colors make them visually appealing, but they are not suitable as pets due to their wild nature and habitat preferences. They require large territories and complex social structures that are best preserved in their natural environment.

3. Violet-Crowned Woodnymph

The violet-crowned woodnymph is a slender hummingbird with vibrant violet, bronze, and green plumage. Males are particularly dazzling, with sequin-like throats that shimmer in the light. Native to parts of South America, including Peru and Belize, they inhabit humid forests and cacao plantations. While their iridescent feathers are mesmerizing, these birds are not suited for life as pets. Their dependence on specific floral resources and extensive flight requirements make it difficult to care for them in captivity. Supporting their wild habitats is the best way to preserve their beauty.

4. Costa’s Hummingbird

Costa’s hummingbird is a small, plump species known for its iridescent purple crown and throat in males. Females are less colorful, displaying green and white plumage. Native to the far Southwestern United States and Mexico, they inhabit desert scrub, coastal areas, and deciduous forests. While their petite size and shimmering hues are enchanting, these hummingbirds are not ideal as pets due to their specialized diet and need for constant foraging. Providing hummingbird feeders in gardens is a better way to attract and support these stunning creatures.

5. Purple Honeycreeper

Purple honeycreepers belong to the tanager family and are native to the tropical forests of South America. These small, colorful birds are known for their bright purple feathers, long decurved bills, and black wings and tails. Males display the most vibrant hues, while females are greenish-yellow. They primarily inhabit lowland forest canopies and citrus plantations. Due to their dietary needs, including nectar and specific fruits, they are challenging to care for as pets. Bird enthusiasts should admire them in their natural habitat rather than in captivity.

6. Gray-Headed Swamphen

Gray-headed swamphens are large wading birds with long legs and toes, thick necks, and heavy bills. They exhibit a stunning mix of green and purple plumage, complemented by bright red bills and frontal shields. Native to Florida’s wetlands, they inhabit marshes, ponds, and artificial wetlands year-round. Despite their striking appearance, these birds are not suitable as pets due to their need for expansive wetlands and natural foraging habits. Their conservation is better supported through habitat preservation rather than captivity.

7. Varied Bunting

Varied buntings are small songbirds native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico. Males during the breeding season flaunt deep purples and reds, creating a vibrant display. Outside of breeding, their plumage turns dark brown, providing a more subtle appearance. These birds prefer dense cover in arid habitats, such as canyons and thorn forests. Their wild temperament and need for natural environments make them unsuitable as pets. Bird enthusiasts should appreciate their beauty in nature rather than attempting to domesticate them.

8. Purple Gallinule

The purple gallinule is a medium-sized wading bird with a royal purple body and dark green feathers. They are native to the Southeastern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America. These birds are easily recognizable by their bright yellow legs and red bills. They inhabit freshwater marshes, lakes, and rice fields. While their vibrant appearance is captivating, they are not practical as pets due to their need for large aquatic environments and specific diet requirements. They are best admired in their wetland habitats.

9. Violet Sabrewing

The violet sabrewing is one of the largest hummingbird species, featuring glossy purple, green, and black feathers. Males are especially striking with their metallic violet napes. Native to Southern Mexico and Central America, they thrive in humid evergreen forests, banana plantations, and gardens. Their shimmering colors make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. However, their complex dietary needs and requirement for free flight make them unsuitable as pets. Observing them in lush tropical environments is the ideal way to appreciate their beauty.

10. Purple Finch

The purple finch is a little songbird found naturally in North America. Despite its name, the bird exhibits more of a raspberry red hue rather than pure purple. Males display the reddish tones on their head, chest, and back, while females are brown-streaked with a whitish belly. They inhabit coniferous and mixed forests as well as suburban gardens. While they may visit bird feeders, they are not suitable as pets due to their wild nature and migratory instincts. Offering birdseed in outdoor spaces is the best way to enjoy their charming presence.

11. Purple Starling

The purple starling, also known as the superb starling, is a brilliantly colored bird native to the grasslands and savannahs of East Africa. With metallic purple and blue-green feathers, these birds are eye-catching and lively. They are very social creatures and are commonly found in big groups. Due to their social needs and free-ranging habits, they are not practical as pets. Maintaining their natural habitats and appreciating them in the wild is the best way to protect this vibrant species.

12. Purple Martin

Purple martins are large swallows found throughout North and South America. Males are glossy purple-black, while females display duller shades. These birds are aerial insectivores, known for their acrobatic flight patterns and preference for nesting in man-made houses. While their glossy feathers and cheerful nature make them delightful to observe, they are not suitable as traditional pets. Building martin houses and providing safe environments is the best way to support these lovely birds and encourage their presence in natural spaces.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!