Parrotlets

[Birdylove]

Hoping to get a Parrotlet over Christmas to add to my tiny flock (of two birds ;)) Does any one have any experience, information, or little birds for sale?

[imported_David]

Hi

I don't sell Parrotlets but they aren't that hard to find. Even though they're very small they have the same needs as birds of the next larger size.

In case you don't know the whole story of these birds I can give you some idea about owning one.
In general, they're another bird that's known for it's small size and large personalities. They're known as playful birds that enjoy the chewing as much as large parrots do.. However, their largest quirk lies in the fact that they don't grow as bored as other species of parrots. Parrotlets keep themselves more than occupied when left alone for several hours, so long as they are provided with an array of chewable and destructable 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.

As far as their diet goes, they need top quality nutrition. A healthful diet of a variety of foods is the best. Parrotlets thrive on a basic diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, greens, seed and pellets. They should also receive whole wheat bread, cooked rice, pasta and cooked dried beans. If fresh fruits and vegetables are difficult to obtain, frozen vegetables may be thawed to room temperature and substituted.
Although they are smaller than most budgies, because parrotlets are true parrots they should not be given budgie seed except for whatever amount comes in the cockatiel mix. Use small or mini pellets and small hookbill seed.

Concerning their general behavior ( which can vary a little from bird to bird) ,----- Parrotlets can be trained like larger parrots. They can be very territorial and nippy. They are small, but they have very big attitude, so there must be limits. Spoiled birds can behave badly.

The best temperment is a parrotlet that's caged alone A single parrotlet can make a great pet. Two or more parrotlets placed together in the same cage (if not in a breeding situation) can be the recipe for disaster, since they can become aggressive and end up hurting or even killing each other. They are territorial and will be really happy by themselves in a cage.
If you eventually want to have more than one parrotlet as a pet, just keep them in separate cages. Also understand that that rule applies to the majority of different species of parrots.

The cage size should be approx-------

Nothing smaller than 14" wide, 18" long and 16" tall. Cage bars should be no wider than 1/2". Bar spacing should be between 1/2" and 5/8". Anything wider and a head could get caught. Also, be sure the cage has a grate on the bottom to keep curious beaks away from droppings and debris. Put the cage in the room where the family spends most of its time. Your bird will enjoy interacting with everyone. Be sure lighting is adequate. Perches in different diameters and textures help keep the nails trimmed and feet healthy. You should include one sandy or other similar type perch.

Concerning what toys to give----

Since they have such strong beaks be sure and buy sturdy, well made toys designed for cockatiels, small conures or small birds. Toys that provide motion are favorites. Swings are especially enjoyed and many parrotlets enjoy sleeping on them. Natural fiber rope, leather, rawhide and wood are also appreciated as parrotlets love to chew. Soft toys with natural fibers are great for snuggling. Supply acrylic toys, and bells (they last forever) but the toys they can tear up will always get the most action. It's up to you cause they're not fussy.

As far as talking-----well, everyone has something different to say so I'll stay neutral and let others argue that point. Some say yes, it talks, others say no, it doesn't talk so the best thing I can say is to compare it to a bird that has the same type of reputation such as a Quaker. Some talk, some don't but most quakers squawk very loudly. Parrotlets don't.

As far as price......well that varies. It depends upon your state, whether you purchase from a breeder or pet store and their availability. I can tell you this----the most common Parrotlet is green. It's also the most inexpensive. Parrotlets come in different colors but once you drift away from the green, expect to pay a lot more money.------Dave

[JaneB]

I breed Pacific Parrotlets. I don't do mutations and have only cute little green ones. I don't ship my babies and usually sell through my bird club. David has given some great info on these tiny "amazon like" birds. Be sure to get one that was handraised and socialized--not just handfed. Good luck finding that special little Parrotlet.

Jane

[Andreya]

I have two Parrotlets (Wasabi and Mojo) and would definitely recommend them. What kind of birds are your other two? I agree about housing, mine are housed separately but play together nicely on their playstand. They are very smart and both of mine are talkers. Wasabi was my first bird and I was scared of him biting me so he still doesn't like to be petted. Mojo on the other hand I finished handfeeding and I can do anything I want with him, he's very loving.

They are very active and LOVE toys and swings in particular. They are very good at entertaining themselves and you as long as they have enough stuff to play with. Mine love stuff they can shred, like toys with straw or even a big piece of broccoli, they like to tear it apart. My Parrotlets aren't overly loud and are very adaptive and not easily stressed out. I agree with getting them from a good breeder that has handfed and handled them from a young age and I think you won't be disappointed.