Introduction
The natural world is filled with an astonishing variety of colorful and captivating birds. Among them, parrots hold a special place due to their vibrant plumage, intelligence, and friendly behavior. One of the most striking and unique mutations within the lovebird family is the Green Euwing Opaline Moja. This particular bird stands out not just for its vivid appearance, but also for its endearing personality, making it a favorite among pet bird enthusiasts and aviculturists alike.
What is a Green Euwing Opaline Moja?
The Green Euwing Opaline Moja is a selectively bred mutation of the lovebird, particularly from the Agapornis genus, commonly known as Peach-faced Lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis). The name represents a combination of three genetic mutations:
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Green: Refers to the bird’s base color, a rich green that covers most of its body.
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Euwing: Short for “European Wing,” a mutation that causes a unique wing coloration where the black pigmentation is reduced, creating a gradient or pattern effect on the wings.
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Opaline: A mutation that alters the distribution of melanin, resulting in more even coloring across the body and enhancing the brightness and contrast of the bird’s feathers.
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Moja: A term used by breeders to describe a specific visual expression or combination of these mutations, often referring to a bird with exceptional visual quality or rare features.
Together, these traits create a visually stunning lovebird that is as rare as it is beautiful.
Physical Characteristics
The Green Euwing Opaline Moja is a medium-sized bird with a compact and sturdy build. Some of its most noticeable physical features include:
1. Coloration
Its primary color is green, but thanks to the Euwing and Opaline mutations, there is a stunning gradient of yellows, oranges, and even blues depending on lighting and feather condition. The back and wing feathers show a soft transition from green to yellowish-gold, giving the bird a “sun-kissed” appearance.
2. Wings
The “Euwing” pattern gives the wings a gradient effect, with reduced black coloration. Instead of having dark, solid wings like typical green lovebirds, the Euwing variation displays a soft transition from light to dark, giving it a more pastel or painted look.
3. Head and Face
The face and forehead of an Opaline lovebird tend to have more evenly distributed colors, often appearing as a rich peach or orange that blends smoothly into the rest of the body. In the Moja variety, this blending is particularly vivid and symmetrical.
4. Eyes and Beak
The bird typically has dark eyes with a white eye-ring (depending on the species), and a pale ivory or horn-colored beak. Its expression is curious and lively.
Personality and Behavior
Like other lovebirds, the Green Euwing Opaline Moja is known for being playful, affectionate, and intelligent. They are social creatures that thrive on interaction, whether with other birds or their human companions.
1. Affectionate Nature
Lovebirds are named for their strong pair bonding, and this variety is no different. They form strong attachments to their mates or owners and enjoy cuddling, grooming, and being close.
2. Intelligence
These birds are quick learners. With consistent training, they can learn simple tricks, mimic sounds, and even understand routines.
3. Vocalization
While not as loud or talkative as larger parrots, lovebirds are chirpy and communicate with a series of whistles and tweets. Their calls are generally pleasant and not overly noisy.
Care and Maintenance
To ensure a Green Euwing Opaline Moja remains healthy and happy, proper care is essential. Here are some key care guidelines:
1. Diet
A balanced diet includes:
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High-quality pellets formulated for lovebirds.
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Fresh fruits and vegetables such as spinach, carrots, apples, and berries.
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Occasional seeds and nuts as treats.
Avoid giving them chocolate, caffeine, avocado, or anything high in salt and sugar.
2. Housing
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A spacious cage (minimum 24″x24″) with horizontal bars for climbing.
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Perches of various textures and diameters.
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Toys for stimulation: swings, ladders, chew toys, and foraging items.
3. Hygiene
Regular cleaning of the cage, food dishes, and toys is important to prevent infections. Birds should also be allowed to bathe or be misted several times a week.
4. Social Interaction
These birds are very social. If kept alone, they need daily human interaction. Alternatively, they can be kept in pairs to satisfy their need for companionship.
Breeding Considerations
Breeding Green Euwing Opaline lovebirds requires knowledge of genetics. Since this bird is a combination of recessive and sex-linked mutations, careful pairing is necessary to maintain or enhance its features.
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Breeders must understand how the Euwing and Opaline genes are inherited.
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Selective pairing can help produce more visually appealing or rare offspring, such as “double-factor” birds.
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Responsible breeding also involves monitoring the health of both parents and chicks, providing proper nesting boxes, and ensuring a stress-free environment.
Rarity and Market Value
Due to their unique appearance and the complexity involved in breeding them, Green Euwing Opaline Mojas are relatively rare. Their price in the bird market is often higher than standard lovebirds, ranging from moderate to expensive depending on quality, age, and region.
Factors influencing price include:
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Color vibrancy
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Feather condition
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Lineage and mutation purity
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Breeding potential
Why Choose a Green Euwing Opaline Moja?
People who choose to keep this bird often do so for several reasons:
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Aesthetic beauty: Its feathers are truly a work of art.
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Affectionate personality: These birds love human interaction.
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Manageable size: Not too large or demanding like macaws or cockatoos.
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Low maintenance (relatively): With regular care, they are easy to manage.
Whether you are an experienced avian enthusiast or a first-time bird owner willing to invest in a special companion, the Green Euwing Opaline Moja is a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
The Green Euwing Opaline Moja is more than just a pet—it is a living masterpiece. With its vivid colors, unique genetic makeup, and charming behavior, it captures hearts and brightens homes. While they do require commitment and care, the love and joy they bring in return are truly priceless.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, interactive, and rare lovebird mutation to add to your aviary or your family, the Green Euwing Opaline Moja is a perfect candidate.
