Parrotlet

Parrotlets
File:Pacificparrotlet.jpg
[[Pacific Parrotlet]]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Aves
Order:	Psittaciformes
Family:	Psittacidae
Genera
Forpus Touit Nannopsittaca

Parrotlets are a species of the smallest, New World parrots, comprised of three genera. One of these genera: Forpus is growing in popularity within the world of aviculture, raising interest in the group as a whole.

General

Parrotlets are are small, they have a thick build and a broad tail, much like the lovebird species of East Africa and fig parrot and pygmy parrot species of Australasia. At 4½–5 inches(11-12cm) long, they are the second smallest kind of parrot in the world.

One of the most common species kept as pets is the Pacific Parrotlet. The wild type coloring for this species is green, but several color mutations have been discovered through selective breeding. Parrotlets are sexually dimorphic, meaning males can be distinguished from females. Males have markings of cobalt blue on their head, wings and tail. Females lack these blue markings.

These miniature parrots in the wild travel in flocks which, depending on the species can range from as low as four to over 100 birds. Most either species travel in flocks of about 5–12 or of about 10–40. This species forms strong pair bonds with mates. As a pet, a parrotlet is usually friendly to more than just one person and as any companion parrot should be kept with a same species mate.

Life Expectancy

With a healthy diet, much exercise and healthy environment, the Parrotlet has a life expectancy of 20-30 years.

Speech/Learning

They can learn more than 10–15 words and can "whistle" songs well. They have about the same speaking and whistling capabilities of a cockatiel. They are also very good learners for commands such as "step up", "kiss-kiss", "step down", and other small commands. Some parrotlets can learn advanced tricks, but not advanced as a macaw or an African grey. Having the ability to speak does not necessarily mean a bird will speak; it depends on the specific bird's personality.

Demeanor

These feisty little birds should not be overlooked in favor of more widely known types of birds; any Parrotlet owner will tell you that these birds possess all the intelligence and attitude of the largest of macaws. These birds are fairly quiet companions, making them ideal for those who live in apartments or condominiums.

Aviculture

The most commonly kept parrotlet in aviculture is by far the Pacific Parrotlet, which now has several color mutations such as yellow, blue, lutino and white. The Mexican, Spectacled, and Yellow-Faced are also fairly common pets. Their popularity as pets has grown due to their small size and large personalities. Parrotlets are commonly known as playful birds that enjoy chewing as much as their larger Amazon Parrot counterparts. Being highly intelligent and active parrots, Parrolets must have ample opportunities to play and exercise. Environmental enrichment must be made a part of their lives as to prevent boredom. Parrotlets keep themselves more than occupied when left alone for several hours, so long as they are provided with an array of chewable and destructible toys to play with. However, when their keepers get home, they often greet them with lovely chirps and whistles to let them know they want attention....

Genera

Forpus

Forpus, the most well known genus of parrotlet, includes all species of parrotlet commonly kept as pets including the Pacific Parrotlet, Mexican Parrotlet, and the Spectacled Parrotlet.

Touit

The Touit Parrotlets are a genus of parrotlets found in The Venezuela-Guyana area, Northern Andes, and Bahia. Only three of the seven species have ever been brought into aviculture, with all three failing to keep them alive, or breed them.

Nannopsittaca

There are only two species in the Genus Nannopsittaca, of which only one—Nannopsittaca panychlora, the Tepui Parrot—has been successfully kept in captivity.

Parrotlet Links

• Forpus.com has plenty of information on parrotlets for owners and those thinking about bringing one into their lives.

• Talk Parrotlets is a website for parrotlet owners to talk about their parrotlets. Includes an interactive forum and a parrotlet gallery.

• Parrotlets the miniature Parrot Is a forum for pet owners, breeders and anyone with an interest in parrotlets. Includes forums on health, feeding, training, behavior, types and mutations, and lots more!