Parrotlets
© Veronica Armstrong
Ever heard the saying, "good things come in small packages?" Whoever said it, might have owned a parrotlet. Because Parrotlets are known for their outgoing personalities, adorable-size, colorful plumage, comical behavior and quiet voice, Parrotlets are quickly becoming one of the most sought-after small pet parrots. All this cuteness is exactly what made me fall for the three little cuties I own. However, owning one of these cuties is not all cuteness and fun. Aside from all their cuteness and fun, they are also well known for getting their way. I can honestly say that this is their only drawback. But it can be a serious one. Now, here's the bad part of owning one of these cuties. I will just tell you my experiences, since I only know my Parrotlets. My oldest female was my first one. She was the sweetest little cutie you could ever meet; until I got her home. You know the drill, perfect manners and behavior, while trying to catch you, then wham! Her true self shows once you get her home! In my opinion, males make better pets than females. Her worst habit with me is that I'm not allowed to talk on the phone if she's out of her cage. She will bite me hard on my chin, no matter what. I've had her for five years, and have never been able to break her of this habit. All three of mine will bite me for anything they decide is not to their liking. And I do mean anything! The thing that I have found special about these birds is that they continue these bad behaviors no matter how much discipline they receive. However, once YOU are well trained, they really are a fun pet. You just have to remember what they like and dislike, and most of the time you can avoid being bit. Another difference I learned about them from a breeder is that they should not be on a typical pelleted diet. Because they are so small and have such a high metabolism, that they actually need the extra fat that a seed diet provides. Less than six inches in length, there are seven species of Parrotlets, only three are kept as pets. The most common are The Pacific from Peru The Green Rump from Venezuela The Mexican from Mexico The Yellow Face from Jamaica Many learn to talk and they are quite comical either playing with toys or hanging by their beaks and toes. Unlike many large parrots, they have no problem entertaining themselves all day with their toys while their owner is at work or school. But when the owner returns, they will chirp welcome greetings and expect to come out to ride around in a pocket or hide in their owner's hair.
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