PARROTLETS

Parrotlets: Miniature Marvels of the Avian World

Parrotlets, affectionately known as “parrot-lets,” are gaining popularity as sought-after small pet parrots. Their diminutive size, vibrant plumage, charming behaviors, and relatively quiet demeanor make them unique companions. Despite being less than six inches in length, parrotlets exhibit typical parrot virtues, accompanied by some distinctive traits.

Species Overview:

1. Pacific Parrotlets

• Characteristics: Vibrant green with pink beaks and legs; sexually dimorphic.
•  Identification: Males possess cobalt blue features, while females exhibit various shades of green.
• Color Mutations: Expensive mutations like blue, cobalt blue, yellow, fallow, lutino, albino, and more.
• Behaviour Traits: Feisty, bold, and engaging; known for learning words with high-pitched voices.

2. Green Rump Parrotlets

• Characteristics: Bright apple green, 18-28 grams; pink beaks and feet.
• Identification: Males have cobalt blue and bright turquoise on wings; females display yellow faces.
• Subspecies: Viridissimus, Deliciosus, Cyanophanes, Cyanochlorus; each with distinct features.
• Temperament: Generally reserved, shy, and may take time to adjust to new surroundings.

3. Spectacle Parrotlets

• Characteristics: Dark green, around 25 grams; males with violet-blue features resembling spectacles.
• Identification: Subspecies like Metae and Caucae with variations in green and blue.
• Behaviour Traits: Outgoing, less stubborn than Pacifics, inquisitive, and good talkers.

4. Blue Wing Parrotlets

• Characteristics: Larger, 35 grams; males with blue violet wings; females with light green-yellow faces.
• Identification:  Subspecies like Flavissimus, Flavescens, Crassirostris, Olallae, and Spengeli.
• Temperament:  Nervous, flighty, and challenging to breed; known for rare blue color mutation.

5. Mexican Parrotlet

• Characteristics: Bright green, around 40 grams; males with bright turquoise wings.
• Identification: One subspecies, Pallidus, with lighter plumage and more yellow underparts.
• Breeding Habits: Unique breeding season, colony breeding, and conservation concerns.

6. Yellow Face Parrotlets

• Characteristics: Largest, 50 grams; males and females with bright yellow faces and deep blue markings.
• Identification: Limited population in the United States; recognizable by distinct black stripe on the upper beak.
• Status: Regularly bred in Europe; less endangered compared to Mexican parrotlets.

7. Sclater’s Parrotlets

• Characteristics: Rare, dark forest green; males with deep blue features.
• Identification: One subspecies, Eidos, with lighter green males and more yellow in females.
• Status: Never imported in the U.S., rare in Europe, and notable for distinct male and female characteristics.

Housing:

1. Cage Requirements:

•  Minimum 18″ x 18″ x 18″ cage with 1/2″-5/8″ bar spacing.
• Horizontal cages preferred; easy access for cleaning and maintenance.
•  Avoid placing over food or water containers.

2. Perches and Toys:

• Provide varied perches, avoiding hoods on dishes.
•  Toys made of leather, rawhide, wood, and rope; swings recommended.
• Ensure toy safety with welded chains and durable materials.

Nutrition:

1. Feeding Guidelines:

• Volkman’s “Parrotlet Super” mix recommended.
• High activity levels require generous food portions.
•  Fresh fruits, vegetables, and greens essential for a balanced diet.

2. Vitamin and Mineral Needs:

• Vitamins on fruits and vegetables several times a week.
• Calcium supplementation for breeders.
• Caution with pellet-fed parrotlets and potential health issues.

Parrotlets as Pets:

1. Choosing a Pet Parrotlet:

• Single parrotlet recommended to avoid aggression and jealousy.
•  Potential challenges of introducing new parrotlets.
•  Socialization tips for a well-adjusted pet.

2. Training and Behavior:

• Talking abilities; preference for one-on-one interaction.
•  Territorial behavior around cages.
• Gentle training techniques; importance of regular communication.

3. Lifespan and Care:

•  Estimated lifespan of 15-20 years.
• Preventing accidents, importance of wing clipping.
• General care tips for a healthy and happy parrotlet.

Conclusion:

Embracing the Joyful Company of Parrotlets: A Blend of Personality and Companionship.