Parrotlet

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• GroomingEasy upkeep

  Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• Living spaceStandard cage

  A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment15–20 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Obesity · Respiratory issues · Egg binding

The parrotlet is one of the smallest parrots, but it has the fearless, big-personality attitude of a bird many times its size. Bold, curious and devoted, it typically bonds hard to one person and rules its cage like a tiny emperor. That confidence has a flip side: parrotlets can be nippy and territorial, so consistent, gentle daily handling from the start is what keeps them tame and sweet rather than defensive. Despite the small size they need a roomy cage, out-of-cage time and plenty of toys and foraging. Diet should be mostly pellets and fresh vegetables with a little seed, avoiding the all-seed diet that leads to obesity in this easily-fattened little bird. Hens can be prone to chronic egg-laying and egg binding, so avoid nesting triggers and provide calcium. Watch for feather plucking, respiratory disease and the beak-and-feather disease (PBFD) parrots can carry. Their tiny lungs are extremely sensitive to non-stick fumes, aerosols and smoke, which are rapidly fatal. Give a parrotlet daily interaction, enrichment and a good diet, and this pocket-sized firecracker will be a devoted companion for fifteen to twenty years.

• How much activity does a Parrotlet need?

  High. Needs hours of out-of-cage activity and mental challenges every day.

• How much feather care does a Parrotlet need?

  Easy upkeep. Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• What cage does a Parrotlet need?

  Standard cage. A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Is a Parrotlet a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Parrotlet live?

  15–20 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Parrotlet?

  Keep an eye out for Obesity, Respiratory issues, Egg binding. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

Be the first to join this community!