Parrotlets-The Smallest Parrot

Introduction to Parrotlets:

There are eight species of Forpus

1.Forpus cyanopygius

Mexican Parrotlet

2. Forpus passerinus

Green-rumped Parrotlet

3. Forpus spengeli

Turquoise-rumped Parrotlet

4. Forpus xanthopetrygius

Blue-winged Parrotlet

5. Forpus conspicillatus

Spectacled Parrotlet

6. Forpus sclateri

Sclaters Parrotlet

7. Forpus coelestis

Pacific Parrotlet

8. Forpus xanthops

Yellow-faced Parrotlet

The most popular of the group is Forpus coelestis that we call the Pacific Parrotlet, followed by Forpus passerinus Green-rumped Parrotlet of which there are five subspecies. A good place to read about all the species is the Lexicon that can be found on the web The Complete LEXICON OF PARROTS If you look closely at the photos you can see how an inexperienced person can easily mix species and sub species when breeding. Unfortunately this is still occurring.

The Forpus species is smaller than the Lovebird. The largest of the Forpus is 6 1/2 inches (14.5 cm.) and the smallest is 4 1/2 inch (12 cm.). The color on all the Forpus is Green with the males having blue markings. These birds are very common in their native habitat and therefore are not thought of as deserving of future research. This is why there is very little written about them. There are many colors Mutations today in captivity mostly in the Forpus coelestis called the Pacific Parrotlet.

With today's living habits of the family unit working for many hours during the day the Parrotlet can make an excellent household pet. They are quiet; given enough toys they can amuse themselves. Some, but not all, have the ability to talk. They speak in a quiet whisper type voice. They are intelligent and should not be underestimated because of their tiny size. They appeal to any age group young or older. If left as an only bird they will be very loyal to their owners. Parrotlets are a very hardy bird and can live into their late teens and beyond if cared for properly.

Most deaths of pet birds are the result of accidents. A watchful eye needs to be on the lookout for things that may cause accidents. Such as wings not being properly trimmed and causing the bird to fly off or into things like glass windows, ceiling fans and boiling water on a stove, just to name a few to look for. Their diet should be varied and given lots of fresh fruit and vegetables along with a good seed diet and plenty of fresh water. A moderate size cage with close bar spacing is ideal. If you have other house pets like dogs and cats make sure the bird can not be attacked when you are unable to be there. Never leave the house without putting your bird in the cage with the door securely locked. Remember cats can climb so the bird should be kept in a separate room with door closed when you are not able to watch him.

With few demands the tiny Parrotlet can make a wonderful pet for the entire family for many years.