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It has been said, good things come in small packages. The Parrotlet is no exception.
A lively and entertaining bird, the Pacific Parrotlet is a true Parrot in every sense of the word. Miniscule in size
compared to it's bigger cousins, it has a lively and engaging personality common to much bigger birds.
Unlike the larger parrots, Parrotlets can easily entertain themselves for hours in their cages given enough toys and
things to do.
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How loud is a Parrotlet?
Parrotlets are much quieter than their larger cousins. They typically chirp and occasionally chirp loudly but they
do not screech, I find them quieter than parakeets.
Parrotlets are better suited for apartments, than their larger Parrot cousins, due to their low volume.
However, realize that these birds typically get very chatty at the crack of dawn and at dusk. Before purchasing a Parrotlet,
please keep in mind, while they are much quieter than the larger parrots,they are still birds and they can still be noisy,
even if not very loud.
Are they good with kids?
Yes and no.
They will be a fine pet for children who are old enough to understand not to squeeze or grab onto the bird.
These are wild birds, while tame, they can still nip and bite unexpectedly..a child must be old enough to understand
this could happen and not to retaliate physically against the bird.
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What do they eat?
My parrotlets are fed a variety of food. A mixture of Higgins Cockatie and Finch seed mixed with Golden Feast Australian
Medley (50/50) once a day. I also add some fresh millet and fruits and veggies throughout the week.
Breeding pairs also get Egg Food and Harrison Organic pellets as part of their daily diet along with plenty of cuttlebones
and water.
My Aviary
My aviary isn't much to look at. It is home based and I mean home based! My breeding pairs sit in a little alcove just
off the living room. They are in and amongst the family, noises and random comings and goings of our house. Dogs, other birds,
kids and guests are all part of the daily lives of all of our birds.
This is why I think my babies are so social and well adjusted. I don't seperate them or treat them with kid gloves, they
are loved and well cared for, but they are part of the family and that is how they are raised.
Always remember, when you bring a parrotlet home it is important to keep up your socialization of the bird. Take him/her
out frequently and accustomize it with you, your house and the people in it.
Parrotlets are little bundles of energy and relish being let out of their cages, however, remember these are tiny birds
and can get into nooks and cranies very easily..keep an eye on them at all times when out of their cage. Shut your bathroom
doors (to help prevent accidental toilet drowing) and always know where they are at. You don't want to sit on your couch only
to find out that your beloved pet squirmed in between the cushions, it has happened before.
These little birds are full of personality and are very lively and entertaining pets. They do best when they are interacted
with on a daily basis and are treated as part of the family. Remember to set limits, these little guys can become quite bossy
and it is important you be consistent in training and not allow nips.
Like all parrots, parrotlets have many different personalities, some are bold and out going, others are more shy, but
all should have high energy and be bundles of fun.
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