16 Types of Parrots (Best Pet Parrots)

Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by Ali Shahid

Parrots, with their vibrant colors, sharp minds, and distinct personalities, have captured the affections of many, becoming increasingly popular as pets across the United States. These colorful avian companions, spanning nearly 400 species, offer more than just a visually pleasing presence. They are intricate beings, each possessing unique traits and requirements.

Originating from warm locales such as rainforests, savannas, and islands, parrots are recognized for their curved beaks and zygodactyl feet, enabling precise object manipulation. Their temperaments vary from lively and spirited to calm and reserved, rendering each parrot an individual with its own distinct character.

Nevertheless, having a parrot entails more than relishing their companionship; it involves a significant responsibility. Grasping their specific needs and delivering appropriate care is paramount for their overall well-being. As we embark on a journey into the enchanting realm of parrots, we will uncover the diversity among their species, their captivating attributes, and essential care guidelines for these extraordinary creatures.

16 Most Popular Pet Parrots

1. Budgies (Parakeets)

Budgies, commonly known as parakeets, are petite and sociable birds displaying a vibrant palette of colors, including shades of blue, green, white, and yellow. They top our list as the preferred choice. Recent data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA) reveals that 25 percent of bird owners in the United States opt for parakeets, surpassing other avian companions. 

In their natural habitat of scrublands, budgies are often spotted in sizable flocks. Although their potential lifespan ranges from 7 to 15 years, unfortunate mistreatment, accidents, or a lack of knowledge about proper care can curtail their average lifespan to less than seven years.

Feeding primarily on seeds and plant materials, budgies can also relish fruits and vegetables. However, their diet requires careful attention to prevent issues such as obesity, fatty tumors, liver and foot disorders, scaly faces, and intestinal parasites. These health concerns necessitate prompt veterinary care. Understanding and addressing these aspects can contribute significantly to ensuring a fulfilling and extended life for these delightful feathered companions.

2. Lovebirds

Lovebirds are renowned for their distinctive features, characterized by a sizable bill and a tail that can be either round or square. With an average lifespan of 10-12 years, some individuals can even exceed this range. These charming birds exhibit a penchant for bathing while they adeptly maintain their nails and beaks through climbing and chewing activities.

In their natural habitat, lovebirds sustain themselves on a varied diet, including seeds, berries, fruits, grains, grasses, leaf buds, and agricultural crops like corn, maize, and figs.

Lovebirds showcase remarkable activity levels, necessitating ample space for their well-being. Given their highly social nature, these birds thrive when kept in pairs, fostering good health and overall happiness. Understanding and catering to their unique behaviors and dietary needs contribute significantly to providing a fulfilling and enriched life for these delightful avian companions.

3. Amazon Parrot

Amazon parrots, known for their affectionate nature, can enjoy a remarkable lifespan of up to 50 years. These intelligent and playful birds thrive on being the focal point of attention, relishing affection and quality time with their owners. Their curious and athletic disposition often translates into entertaining their human companions with playful and sometimes clownish antics.

While Amazon parrots generally boast robust health and longevity, they are prone to certain conditions such as obesity, feather picking, hypocalcemia (low calcium), liver disease, respiratory issues, and infections. 

To maintain their well-being, a moderate level of care is required, including a varied diet to address their specific nutritional needs. Understanding and addressing these aspects contribute to fostering a healthy and fulfilling life for these vibrant and engaging avian companions.

4. Conures

Conures, characterized by their small to medium size, are playful and curious parrots displaying a spectrum of vivid colors, ranging from blue and green to orange and yellow. These highly social birds thrive in the midst of household activity, known for their affectionate, cuddly, and occasionally loud behavior. With a lifespan of up to 20 to 30 years under proper care, conures are recognized for their slender build and distinctive long, pointed tail.

These active and dynamic birds require ample toys and enrichment to keep them engaged throughout the day. Renowned for their adept flying abilities, conures often exhibit attention-seeking behaviors such as hanging upside down, swaying, and dancing. Their intelligence is evident through their capacity to mimic sounds, learn vocabulary, and perform tricks.

Maintaining their well-being involves providing a nutritionally balanced diet supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits, and healthy table foods. Equally crucial is regular attention and interaction with their owners. In a family setting, it’s important to educate children on proper conure interaction, emphasizing gentle handling and avoiding any forced engagement. Understanding and attending to these aspects contribute significantly to the health and happiness of these lively and intelligent avian companions.

5. Caique Parrot

Caique parrots, characterized by their intelligence, exuberance, and occasional mischief, stand out as spirited and playful avian companions often dubbed the “clowns” among pet birds. These attention-seeking birds delight in showcasing their energetic antics, including dancing, hopping, and putting on a show. 

Despite their lively demeanor, caiques also exhibit affectionate qualities, relishing serene moments with their human companions. With a lifespan of 25-30 years, these birds make enduring and engaging pets.

There are two distinct species of caiques: the White-bellied Caique and the Black-headed Caique. Both species, measuring 9 to 10 inches in length, boast a vibrant color palette comprising yellow, green, white, and orange. Despite their relatively small and stocky build, caiques are surprisingly robust for their size.

Caiques thrive in an environment that allows for approximately 2 hours of daily interaction and necessitates a spacious setting for their well-being. A nutritionally balanced diet, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, is essential to their health. While caiques may display occasional stubborn or beaky behavior, their overall playful and active nature contributes to their popularity as delightful and entertaining pets.

6. Cockatiel

Cockatiels stand out as quiet, undemanding, and easily manageable birds, making them an excellent choice for families of all types, including those with children. Their gentle nature and playful disposition render them delightful pets, often finding amusement in even the simplest of toys. These highly intelligent birds can be trained to talk, whistle, and enjoy perching on your shoulder.

With a potentially long lifespan, cockatiels in the wild typically live around 10-14 years. However, under captive care, they can thrive for up to 30 years, with an average range of 15-25 years.

To ensure their well-being, a proper diet is crucial. Cockatiels benefit from a diverse array of fresh foods complemented by a high-quality avian pellet-based diet. Ideally, pellets should constitute 75 percent of their diet, with the remaining portion comprised of fresh vegetables, fruits, and grains. This nutritional balance contributes significantly to maintaining the health and longevity of these charming avian companions.

7. Cockatoo

Cockatoos, distinguished by their large size and slim build, features a distinctive crest of feathers atop their heads that stands erect when they are excited or alarmed. These intelligent and remarkably affectionate birds make wonderful pets for families with adult children. 

However, they come with the requirement of significant attention and ample time spent outside their cages. Given their natural inclination for communal living in the wild, cockatoos thrive on forming close bonds with their human family members.

The lifespan of cockatoos varies between 30 to 70 years, contingent upon the species. Lively and affectionate, these birds exhibit a cuddly nature, forming close connections with their owners. However, their sociable disposition and need for affection necessitate considerable time and commitment from their human caregivers.

In captivity, a well-rounded diet is crucial for the health of cockatoos. This includes a high-quality avian pellet-based diet, comprising 75 percent of their menu, complemented by fresh vegetables, fruits, and grains making up the remaining portion. This nutritional balance, coupled with attentive care, contributes significantly to the well-being of these charming and long-lived avian companions.

8. African Grey Parrots

African Grey Parrots stand out for their exceptional intelligence and proficiency in mimicking human speech, with some individuals capable of learning an impressive repertoire of over 1,000 words and phrases. 

Recognizable by their grey feathers and distinctive red tail feathers, these parrots measure approximately 13 inches in length and weigh just under 1 pound. In captivity, they exhibit an average lifespan of 40 to 60 years, and with attentive care, they can potentially live up to an astounding 80 years.

Indigenous to the equatorial regions of Africa, including countries like Angola, Cameroon, Congo, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda, African Grey Parrots require ample interaction and training to ward off issues such as depression and self-mutilating behaviors like feather-plucking.

Their captive diet should comprise a high-quality formulated pellet enriched with fruits such as pomegranate, organic mango, and melon. Additionally, incorporating fresh vegetables like arugula, watercress, kale, sprouts, and healthy seeds such as hemp and flaxseed is essential for their well-being.

By addressing their specific needs and providing a balanced and nutritious diet, caregivers contribute significantly to ensuring the health and longevity of these remarkable and intelligent avian companions.

9. Lorikeets

Renowned for their vibrant colors, Rainbow Lorikeets are distinct among parrots due to their unique diet, primarily centered around nectar and flower pollen. In captivity, their nourishment involves either commercially available or freshly prepared homemade nectar mixes, requiring fresh preparation two to three times daily.

Supplementary treats such as oats, fresh fruit, edible organic flowers, and green vegetables can be added to their diet twice daily, while citrus fruits should be avoided to prevent digestive disturbances. With a potential lifespan of up to 30 years, lorikeets demand special attention to their dietary needs.

These energetic birds necessitate ample exercise for optimal health. A spacious cage equipped for climbing and flying is essential, along with a minimum of 3 to 4 hours of supervised, out-of-cage playtime daily. This commitment to both physical and emotional well-being contributes significantly to the overall health and happiness of these lively and colorful avian companions.

10. Macaws

Macaws, constituting a group of 17 species within the true parrot Psittacidae family, are renowned for their distinctive features, including large beaks, vibrant feathers, long tails, and conspicuous light or white facial patches. These playful and active birds possess exuberant personalities, necessitating ample space for a healthy and lively lifestyle.

The larger macaw species span from about 20 inches (e.g., military macaws) to an impressive 42 inches, accounting for the long tails of species like hyacinth macaws. Macaws boast a noteworthy life expectancy ranging from 30 to 50 years, with the larger species often living longer.

In terms of diet, wild macaws consume a diverse range of foods. As pets, they thrive on a balanced diet and necessitate plenty of interaction to stave off boredom and loneliness, mitigating the risk of self-injurious behaviors. Meeting their specific dietary needs and ensuring regular engagement are key factors in promoting the well-being and longevity of these majestic and spirited avian companions.

11. Eclectus Parrots

Eclectus Parrots are renowned for their stunning colors, impressive talking ability, and endearing personalities. As one of the larger parrot species, they typically measure between 17 and 20 inches and weigh in the range of 13 to 18 ounces, exhibiting a substantial presence. With a remarkable life expectancy of 30 to 50 years, these parrots represent a long-term and engaging avian companion.

Native to tropical rainforests across the Solomon Islands, northeastern Australia, Indonesia, the Moluccas, and New Guinea, Eclectus Parrots embody qualities of gentleness, tranquility, and care. 

Thriving on socialization, they fare best when daily interaction is woven into their routine. Cherishing the time spent with their families, these vibrant and affectionate birds contribute to a fulfilling and enduring relationship with their human companions.

12. Kakariki Parrots

Kakariki Parrots, also recognized as Red Crowned Parakeets, are charming, diminutive, and intelligent birds indigenous to New Zealand. Distinguished by their soft green plumage, striking red and yellow crowns, and a mix of blue and green feathers around their wings, these parrots measure approximately 25-28 cm in length and weigh around 65 grams as adults.

With a lifespan of 10 to 20 years in captivity, Kakariki Parrots make enduring and engaging avian companions. These parrots are celebrated for their adeptness at mimicking human speech and learning tricks. To curb potential aggressive behaviors, they require ample interaction and socialization, benefitting from several hours outside their cage daily, along with the enjoyment of toys crafted from materials like paper or acrylic.

A well-rounded diet consisting of a high-quality pellet supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables contributes significantly to their overall health and happiness. Understanding and catering to these needs make Kakariki Parrots delightful and enriching additions to households.

13. Parrotlet

Parrotlets, small in size but substantial in intelligence, thrive in dynamic environments. Showcasing a vibrant array of colors, including blue, yellow, and white, these birds bring a lively presence to their surroundings. In captivity, Parrotlets boast a lifespan ranging from 10 to 40 years.

To mitigate aggressive tendencies, Parrotlets require ample interaction with their caregivers. A balanced diet is crucial, anchored in a high-quality pellet bird mix complemented by fresh fruit and vegetables daily.

Providing at least 3 to 4 hours of daily care is essential to maintain their health and happiness. Prone to fatty liver disease, Parrotlets may exhibit signs of boredom or feather plucking if not given sufficient attention. Attentive care and engagement are paramount to fostering a thriving and contented life for these intelligent and colorful avian companions.

14. Senegal Parrot

Senegal Parrots, characterized by their small size, playful demeanor, and affectionate nature, are recognized for their quiet and calm temperament. Sporting a predominantly dark green and brownish-gray plumage, these parrots feature an iridescent green throat, orange thighs, and a yellow chest, adding to their distinct charm. In captivity, Senegal Parrots boast an impressive lifespan of 30 to 40 years.

Indigenous to West Africa, Senegal Parrots showcase a migratory pattern within their range based on the availability of native fruits, seeds, and blossoms. To keep them mentally stimulated, these parrots require an array of toys, particularly blocks of softwood and rope toys.

Their diet should be anchored in a high-quality pellet, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, ensuring their nutritional needs are met for a healthy and fulfilling life. Understanding and providing for these aspects contribute significantly to the well-being and longevity of these delightful avian companions.

15. Ring-Necked Parakeet

Ring-necked parakeets, particularly Indian Ringneck Parakeets, captivate with their vibrant lime green hue, adorned with distinctive blue tail feathers and yellow accents beneath the wings. Boasting a substantial lifespan of 25 to 30 years and occasionally reaching up to 50 years, these parakeets stand out as enduring and colorful avian companions.

Known for their intelligence, Indian Ringneck Parakeets thrive on learning new tricks, showcasing their ability to engage in bird tricks with ease. However, their spirited minds demand ample attention and care, as prolonged periods of boredom or isolation may lead to self-destructive behaviors, such as feather plucking. Ensuring their mental stimulation is crucial for their well-being.

To maintain optimal health, their diet should be anchored in a high-quality pellet, supplemented with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Understanding and meeting these requirements contribute significantly to the happiness and longevity of these intelligent and visually striking avian companions.

16. Quaker Parakeet

Quaker Parakeets, also recognized as Monk Parakeets, are distinguished by their vibrant green plumage, adorned with gray accents on the forehead and chest. Renowned for their intelligence, these birds showcase an impressive ability to mimic human speech. In captivity, Quaker Parakeets boast a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.

Originally native to South America, these parakeets have established feral populations in various countries, including the United States. To prevent aggressive tendencies and self-mutilating behaviors, Quaker Parakeets necessitate ample interaction and mental stimulation. Engaging with them in a positive and enriching manner is crucial for their well-being.

A balanced diet, anchored by a high-quality pellet and supplemented with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, contributes significantly to their overall health. Understanding and addressing these needs make Quaker Parakeets delightful and enduring companions in the avian world.

Conclusion

In summary, the world of parrots is a rich tapestry of diversity, featuring distinct species such as playful Conures, majestic Macaws, intelligent African Grey Parrots, and the lively Parrotlets. Each parrot species contributes to a unique and rewarding pet ownership experience.

However, it’s crucial for prospective owners to recognize the substantial commitment involved in caring for these birds, encompassing considerations like providing ample space, a well-balanced diet, and regular interaction.

Moreover, it’s imperative to acknowledge the challenges faced by many parrot species due to habitat loss and illegal trade, underscoring the importance of responsible pet ownership and active participation in conservation initiatives.

While owning a parrot can be profoundly fulfilling, it necessitates a thorough understanding of the bird’s distinctive needs and a steadfast commitment to their well-being.