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There was a time when you would have to trek down to Argentina in order to see a colony of Quaker Birds. It would be an adventure and in return you would see these fascinating birds living wild in social and communal societies. Unlike other parrots, they do not live in Jungles, these birds live in the wide open Savannah and areas containing light woodland. They can survive in temperatures as low as -27º and build nests that weigh as much as 2,600 lbs!. These nests are cooperative ventures built by a number of parakeets and are something on the lines of an apartment block where each pair has its own door and rooms within the greater nest.
If you really want to see Quaker birds in a truly natural environment, then there are many companies in Argentina that offer Bird Watching Tours and I imagine that if you asked for a special tour concentrating on these birds it could be arranged. However, even in their original native environment they are considered a common pest. You may get some strange looks, as it would be very much the same if an Argentinian came to the USA and asked for a special tour based around pigeons .
These days there is no need to travel that far as you may have a colony of Quaker Parrots living in your locality. In Brooklyn there was a nest so large it almost completely circled the spire of Greenwood cemetery at one stage, housing a large number of birds.
The Quaker Bird (aka Monk Parakeet) is a small parrot which is bright green, with a pronounced grey breast. The abdomen is a greenish-yellow color. The average lifespan of a Quaker parrot is 15 to 30 years. It originally came from Argentina’s temperate/subtropical areas together with adjacent South American countries.
The Male Quaker Parrot is typically 11 inches long and a 19 inch wingspan. The females will be between 10% to 20% smaller. Their bill is orange and they have a very loud call. When kept domestically, other colors have been produced and some of these may have escaped into the wild, but because they are not so camouflaged they will not survive as long as standard colors.
A unique thing about the Quaker Parrot is that it is the only parrot that builds a stick nest. Other parrots and parakeets will typically use a hole in a tree. The parrot is very social and will frequently build communal nests, with each pair having their own entrance. Another unusual trait of the Quaker Parrot is that they may have a helper, often a grown offspring, that will assist the pair in feeding young.
You can choose to travel down to Argentine or one of the surrounding countries if you want to see Monk Parakeets (Quakers) in the wild. Far easier to choose one of the large colonies that abound in the USA.
One of the biggest populations of Quaker Parrots is in Brooklyn. You may be wondering why Brooklyn of all places? Apparently some time back a large shipment of the birds accidentally got released at JFK International Airport, and they eventually landed in Brooklyn, decided they liked it and stayed, becoming real New Yorkers and spreading to Queens, The Bronx and further. Why do they not go to Manhattan as well? Brooklyn and Queens have utility poles carrying electric cabling, Manhattan has underground wires, and since the birds nest on the Poles keeping warm, they prefer Brooklyn.
In actual fact the reason so many were imported to the USA was that Argentina had tried to eradicate them and when that proved too expensive they caught large numbers and exported them to the USA, thereby making some money on what previously had been a problem.
One location that used to be famous for its large population of Quaker Parakeets was Hyde Park in Chicago. For more than 40 years they have lived in the park and quite a population developed. Then suddenly the numbers began to fall and nobody knew why. Eventually they found out is was a result of a program to reintroduce the Peregrine Falcon into the wild in the region. The Peregrines soon discovered this wonderful source of food in Hyde Park and eventually the remaining Quaker Birds fled.
Florida has the largest population of Quaker Parrots in the USA. An estimated 150,000 and 500,000 feral Quaker Birds live in the state, despite the utility companies’ effort to destroy nests. The huge number of bids has become a major problem for local utility companies who now employ staff to destroy nests they find on transformers, poles and other electrical installations. Some of these large nests built by the birds have become wet in torrential rain, then collapsed onto electrical connections and caused power outages. In fact, they have caused nearly 200 outages so far.
There are a variety of attitudes to feral populations of Quaker birds in different countries and states of the USA. Some jurisdictions see them as a pest and eradication programs have been launched, while other places are fairly ambivalent about them. In Europe, initially the populations were seen as harmless and no actions were taken about them, but some countries, particularly the UK, are now planning to eradicate the wild population.
In the USA there is a variety of attitudes. In some states Quaker parrots are illegal. They may not be kept as pets, in case they escape and join wild populations. In other states they remain legal.
The problem with wild populations is a fear that they will damage crops and complete with native bird populations. Quaker Parrots are very social and with communal living they tend to breed fast and small populations of escaped pets can very soon turn into large colonies of intelligent birds, that soon adapt to the local habitat.
Interestingly the breed has developed several dialects. A Small population will adopt the vocal dialect of the dominant bird. The colony will all adopt that dialect which distinguishes it from other colonies. Where large colonies have developed with more than one dominant bird there may be several dialects in a single colony.
Because the breed is originally from a temperate region, they were more suited than tropical parrots to survive in the USA. They are also very intelligent and often build their communal nests near or on heat producing devices. It is not unusual to see nests on top of electrical poles that generate heat.
They arrived in the USA in large numbers during the period 1960 to 1980, imported as pets. Many birds escaped or were intentionally released by owners and by the beginning of the 1970s they were established in seven states. Just 15 years later they had spread to 15 states. In just Florida there was an estimated population of between 150,000 and 500,000 feral Quaker Birds.
Colonies are surviving as far north as New York City and Chicago.
Positive Views on Quaker Parrots
There are conflicting views on how welcome Quaker Parrots should be. At one end of the range of opinion is a case in Brooklyn, where the birds set up home in Green Wood Cemetery. Originally ground staff tried driving them away and destroying nests. Still, then they discovered that the Parrots were scaring away pigeons who had been damaging the stonework. The Parrots caused no ill effect on the stonework. The cemetery management has welcomed the parrots as a natural way of preserving historic structures. Brooklyn college has also got many birds living on campus and has adopted one as the college mascot. They can also be seen nesting on lamp posts in the Bronx. You will also find them nesting on lamp posts in Queens.
Many people see them as an invasive species and, on that basis feel they should be controlled. This problem that really stems from between 1960 and 1980 was bound to occur with many birds being imported into the country as pets. Some were sure to escape and some would be released intentionally when owners no longer wanted them.
Risk to agriculture
Not all states are opposed to Quaker Parrots, but those who say that the birds eat grains, plant buds, and fruit do damage to crops, which can hit the States’ economy.
Risk to the Environment
When large colonies of Quaker Parrots get established, they can compete with local species for food.
The risk to public utilities
These birds have a habit of nesting on utility poles, transformers and substations. They constitute a fire risk and can cause power outages.
These parrots are brilliant and social. They are swift to build vocabularies of human words and have overtaken Cockatiels as a pet purchased for talking abilities. They are also much cheaper to buy and have a shorter lifespan than many other parrots. Domesticated Quaker birds have been bred in other color variations which sell at higher prices.
Since the bird is”an agricultural pest” it is illegal to own one as a pet in the following States
It is really the personality of the Quaker Parrot that qualifies it as such a good pet. They are real homemakers and try their best to build a home and keep it. Even though most aviaries are not big enough to house the kind of multi-occupancy apartment block they favor, the Quaker will still attempt to make it happen and do their utmost to create the desirable home they seek.
They are generally mild-mannered and friendly birds, but they may become territorial regarding their nests and even the cage itself. They also have a love of possessions, and when let out in the house, they will attempt to collect objects to layout inside their cage or use in the construction of a complex home inside the cage.
If you are considering having a Quaker as a pet, they do best in homes that have a lot of time to devote to them and be the center of attention. They will interact with the family as much as you let them, but they also need some time alone to sleep. Tired Quaker birds get cranky.
The downside of a Quaker Bird Pet
Like all parrots, they can give a painful bite if provoked. They can also be noisy. If they want something and fail to give it to them, they will make a repeated noise until they get it. If a bird is spoken to at an early age, it will start to mimic human sounds from as early as three months old. The problem is that not only will they mimic speech, but they will so mimic sneezes, coughs, and breaking wind, which can be a bit embarrassing. They are choosy and will not automatically get on with another bird placed in their cage. They may decide to be friends, but equally, they may become sworn enemies.
The Quaker Bird has successfully invaded the USA, UK, and many other countries. They are now very common across large areas in the USA. Whatever your attitude to them, the fact is that they are here and are not going away anytime soon.
So in answer to our original question “to See a Quaker Bird on Your Next Vacation Where Should You Go?”, the answer is to open the door and look for many people. If you really want to see larger numbers, I suggest heading down to Florida, Brooklyn, or Chicago.
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Dallas TX is a city with a long history as a business hub and caters to the needs of every visitor. The top Dallas Hotels serve up plenty of hospitality. And it’s no surprise the city receives loads of visitors each year. Here are the best hotels to stay in Dallas that will make your stay feel like a luxe version of your home.
Adolphus is a luxury hotel in downtown Dallas, TX. It has all the amenities that guarantee a flawless stay for every guest. It boasts of 268 rooms equipped with pillow-top mattresses for a restful stay. But what makes this Dallas hotel unique is the high-end features. You get individual climate controls, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen televisions to keep you connected with friends.
The bathrooms are stocked with hairdryers, rainfall showers, plush robes, etc. Guests can also enjoy services like:
Another reason why most tourists consider this the top hotel is that it gives options for all individuals. You can go to Deluxe rooms, luxury suites, or executive suites.
They are luxurious and sophisticated to meet the needs of those looking for something high-end. With sweeping floor plans between 400-500 square feet, these rooms are designed to foster work and play. You also get pillow-top mattresses and high-speed Wi-Fi to elevate your stay. On the other hand, the bathrooms are equipped with spa-like bathrooms, so even the shortest stay will be unforgettable.
These rooms offer 500-600 square feet of floor space. Also, they come complete with fine linens, Mable clad bathrooms, two king-size beds, and a wide seating area.
They are designed to give you unparalleled stay and can stretch up to 1500 square feet. You also get garden terraces, a pool table, and private elevator access. This is the perfect place for once-in-a-lifetime getaways or romantic honeymoons.
This Dallas, Texas hotel offers plenty of dining options. Don’t forget to try their drinks.
The Statler opened its doors in 1956 and continues to earn the top spot at a top Hotel. The guest rooms are designed in a way that you can enjoy the iconic Dallas Downtown Experience. Since the rooms come with an array of features, you can enjoy the same luxury you get at home. Also, all rooms offer services like:
This Dallas hotel also comes with suites equipped with king-size beds and offer options with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Visitors can also enjoy their favorite foods at the restaurant, a rooftop bar, and coffee shops.
The Highland Dallas hotel is located outside of the park cities and is a major spot for business travelers. It’s ideally situated between the Lakewood neighborhood and upscale park cities.
This is where luxury meets warm hospitality. But what makes this Dallas Hotel one of the best, is the guest rooms. Guests can enjoy king-size beds, expansive work areas, and thread count linens. You can also use amenities like:
At The Highland Dallas Hotel, you can get all sorts of recreational activities. Whether you want to break a sweat in the fitness classes or lounge in the affinity pool, this Dallas hotel has you covered. You can be sure to get an experience that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re an avid traveler, you’ll get an intersection of culture, style, comfort, and sophistication.
The Highland Dallas blends the spirit of an independent hotel, and the team will ensure every detail is customized to meet your needs.
When it comes to culinary needs, this hotel is in its own league. Inside, you’ll find the Knife Restaurant. No matter the time you visit, Chef John Tesar will bring a new steakhouse dining experience. Keep in mind that the menu is rounded by sausages, sandwiches, ham tastings, pasta dishes, bacon, and salads. Of course, you can build your classic selection.
In addition to that, the knife offers a flagstone garden patio, dining room, and a fireplace. Be expecting to see a lot of Texans staying at this hotel. You will see big sinister diesel trucks in the parking lot and this adds to the experience.
The Joule is an art-inspired hotel with works of brilliant artists like Andy Warhol and Millard Sheets. This is arguably one of the most beautiful Dallas Hotels, thanks to the stunning lobby. Besides, you’ll find connoisseurs mixing up drinks in the evening.
The Joule Dallas Hotel features a restaurant, full-service spa, and outdoor pool. Visitors can enjoy amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, LED TVs, free Wi-Fi, four bars/lounge, and free wired internet.
But what makes Joule stack up above the competition is that all rooms are air-conditioned. Plus, all pillow-top beds come with premium beddings. The bathrooms come with hydro-massage shower beds and rainfall showerheads. Still, you get business-friendly amenities like complimentary newspapers, desks, and phones. A nightly turndown service is provided every day.
The Joule hotel also offers spas and has 6 treatment rooms. You can enjoy services like:
That’s not all – this hotel offers a variety of rooms including premier room, deluxe room, demi joule, and Deluxe loft suit. There are also several penthouses to choose from – penthouse west, penthouse loft, penthouse rooftop.
The Joule is also celebrated for its extensive dining option. You can choose craft beers, cocktails, wines, and artisanal comfort food.
Finally, the hotel has a 30,000 square foot space for indoor and outdoor meetings. You can comfortably hold dream weddings and high-profile parties. No other venue compares with this when it comes to space and style.
Since Omni Dallas Hotel opened its doors, it has remained the most sought hotel in Dallas, Texas. Their rooms have two lifestyles focused chambers – one for revival and the other for rest. You also get in-room treats, and it’s no wonder this a great place in the city.
It boasts of 1000 rooms that overlook the skyline. Visitors can choose the various dining options including a sports bar, farm-to-market restaurant, steak house, and pool terrace. Another feature that makes the hotel unique is that you get many meeting spaces, restaurants, and guest rooms. You can also enjoy the fitness center and a terrace pool deck.
The Omni hotel puts you right into the action. You can also try some of their vacation packages and luxurious accommodations. Some of the hotel amenities include:
Deluxe rooms
Omni Hotel comes with two queen beds, so you get to enjoy the essence of Dallas. Some of the features to look out for include high-speed internet access, in-room safe, high-end bedding, high-speed internet access, clock radio, to mention a few.
Alternatively, you can choose a classic Deluxe room with a king bed. You’ll not only enjoy the excitement and energy of the Dallas downtown corridor but also a wide of amenities. This includes high-end bedding, in-room safe, flat-panel HDTV, and clock radio. Best of all, you enjoy the view of the Trinity River.
When you stand on the rooftop of the hotel, you can watch the beautiful colors that add to the Dallas city landscape.
This is a top Dallas hotel that combines style and sophistication. The lobby is classy, trendy, and will meet the needs of every traveler. When you visit this Dallas hotel, you’ll find an exquisite ballroom, state-of-the-art conference rooms, private rooms, lounges, and a restaurant. And the best thing is that this hotel gives an experience that reminds visitors of their homes.
Another feature that makes this hotel a favorite to many is the location. If you’re not in the room, you can walk around the pool, explore the shops, and other fun attractions. The Magnolia hotel is located a 10-minutes’ walk to Kay Bailey Convention Center. It’s also 0.9km from Dallas World Aquarium.
All Magnolia hotels are air-conditioned and feature LCD televisions and refrigerators. You also get a pillow bed with premium bedding. And to ensure they meet the needs of every visitor, you get complimentary wireless internet access and a satellite system. Still, you get private bathrooms with tub/shower combinations.
Fairmount Dallas is located in Dallas Arts District near a Metro Station. For five decades, this hotel has earned the reputation as one of the top hotels that care for guests. This hotel is surrounded by shopping, arts, and entertainment joints. Fairmount Dallas is located a few blocks from the central business district. It’s also close to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealay Plaza.
What makes this iconic Dallas hotel unique is that it combines classic hospitality with Texan flare. If you want a retreat from the noise of the city, you can try one of their breathtaking guest rooms. Fairmount Dallas hotel offers a lot of amenities, and you enjoy a guest room adorned with modern conveniences.
Some of the popular amenities offered by the hotel include:
While ZaZa may sound like a word from a witch spell, everything here is magical. It combines comfort and style to give travelers a unique experience. Also, you get the perfect balance of relaxation and refinement to meet the needs of travelers and businesses alike. As an award-winning restaurant, you get an exquisitely rendered experience.
Hotel ZaZa is the best hotel surrounded by shopping and entertainment joints. You get unparalleled comfort, convenience, and style. Furthermore, visitors can use 158 guestrooms that include the concept and magnificent Seven Suites. There’s also a fitness center on the 7th floor that allows guests to relax and enjoy the panoramic view of Dallas, Texas. You also get a combination of urban chic and sophistication.
Guests can also use 8500 square feet of space to hold their meetings. The entry seating area offers luxury while the guests give visitors a luxury to lounge. This Dallas hotel features amenities like:
When it comes to dining options, the Dragonfly at Hotel ZaZa has you covered. The expert and passionate team delivers the best breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You get state-of-the-art ambiance out of the terrace.
Rosewood Crescent is an iconic landmark in the uptown Dallas neighborhood. The guests have a choice of 10 styles of suites and plush rooms. Also, this hotel offers five eating locations including a deluxe Sushi restaurant and Nobu. They all serve guests with breakfast and lunch. There’s also a lounge, bar, and coffee shop.
Rosewood Crescent has foods and amenities that suit children. They also offer babysitting services and more, so it’s a great place for a family to relax.
Belmont hotel is situated close to many attractions. The rooms offer a retro vibe and amazing city views. This Dallas hotel boasts of 65 rooms, a hospitality suite, and a terrace suite. But what makes the hotel unique is the signature smokehouse. You can also break a sweat at the fitness center. The hotel offers a special package for guests. For instance, the Romance package features champagne and desserts, while the Girls night features tarot card readings and drink coupons.
The Four Seasons Resort gives a mix of amenities and nature-filled amenities of Texas. When nightfall comes, visitors gather in the rustic fireplace and bar patio. With more than 400 suites, you can choose a room that suits you best. You can stay in Deluxe tower suites, standard rooms, or beautiful villas. More interestingly, the villas are airy and provide a lot of space. You can also relax on the patio and enjoy the views of a natural garden.
When it comes to dining options, the Dallas hotel has something for every palate.
Being one of the best Dallas hotels, you can take a dip into the four pools. You can choose the indoor pool, family pool, or the Agave pool. But the hotel’s highlight is the Las Colinas golf course. If golf isn’t your thing, you can hit the tennis courts.
Don’t forget to indulge in indulgence and insight in the wellness center. You can also take a group fitness class or enlist the motivation of a personal trainer.
The above Dallas hotels receive thousands of visitors every year. Be sure to visit any of them when you get to this magical city.
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