A big personality in a small package

Birds can bring energy and excitement into a home when they are kept as pets. Their musical tunes and sweet chirps add something special, particularly for people looking for a pet that doesn’t require the same level of care as say a cat or a dog. Small birds, such as parakeets (budgies) and cockatiels long have been popular pets. But in recent years another type of bird has risen in popularity: the parrotlet. As the name implies, parrotlets are the smallest birds in the parrot family. Even though they are small in size, they are big on personality. In fact, parrotlets may act like they are full-sized parrots. Individuals who long have had the desire to own a parrot, but do not have the room nor the experience for such a bird often find a parrotlet is a great compromise. The following information can help pet owners get to know parrotlets a little better.

Handling is key

Parrotlets need to be socialized to blend into the household. Daily handling by multiple people is recommended so that they do not become one-person birds. All parrots have the potential to nip at people’s fingers, and handling while setting boundaries can enhance their tameness.

Spunky personality

Parrotlets are outgoing, curious, playful, fearless, and enjoy human companionship. They may chirp at their owners when they’re not the center of attention, and they can be trained to spend time outside of the cage. Parrotlets have the potential to get into all kinds of mischief, so they need to be watched and have frequent interaction, including new toys to challenge them.

Vocal, but not too vocal

Apartment dwellers should rest assured that while parrotlets may be quite the chatterboxes, their vocal abilities are not so loud as to be problematic. Parrotlets do not scream. Parrotsecrets.com says that parrotlets frequently learn to talk, but with patience. A parrotlet has around a 300-word threshold, according to the pet resource Petkeen.

Expect some favoritism

While parrotlets can get along with many people in the family, they tend to gravitate toward a favorite. That person will receive the bulk of the bird’s affection. Parrotlets can be stubborn and sometimes sassy. Again, to reduce problematic biting, strong boundaries and training are necessary.

Typical bird care

Parrotlets, like other small birds, should stay in an environment with a consistent temperature and away from drafts. Cages should not be placed in direct sunlight, and the birds do better in square or rectangular cages. Seed for small birds as well as fresh vegetable and fruit offerings are tolerated. Check with a veterinarian or bird expert as to which fresh foods are acceptable. Parrotlets are feisty birds that can bring some extra personality into any home.