20 Types of Parrots to Keep as Pets with Pictures

Parrots are among the most vibrant and intelligent birds, making them popular choices as pets for avian enthusiasts worldwide. Their captivating colors, charming personalities, and ability to mimic human speech are just a few reasons why people love to keep them as companions. In this article, we will delve into the diverse world of parrots and explore 20 types of parrots to keep as pets, each with its unique characteristics and care requirements. Whether you’re a first-time bird owner or a seasoned parrot enthusiast, this guide will provide you with valuable insights to help you make the best choice for a feathered friend.

The 20 Types of Parrots to Keep as Pets

African Grey Parrot

The African Grey Parrot is renowned for its exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human speech. Native to Africa, this medium-sized parrot is an ideal companion for those seeking an interactive and talkative pet.

• • Personality: African Grey Parrots are highly social and form strong bonds with their owners. They are observant and can express emotions, making them engaging companions.
  • Care Requirements: Provide a varied diet of seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Regular mental stimulation through toys and puzzles is essential to keep them mentally agile.

Cockatiel

Cockatiels, native to Australia, are beloved for their gentle and affectionate nature. With their striking crest and whistling abilities, they are an excellent choice for beginners.

• • Personality: Cockatiels are friendly and enjoy interacting with their owners. They can learn simple tricks and often crave attention.
  • Care Requirements: A well-balanced diet of seeds, pellets, and fresh vegetables is essential. They require spacious cages and regular out-of-cage time.

Macaws

Macaws are large and majestic parrots known for their vibrant plumage and strong bonds with their owners. They come in various species, each with its own unique colors.

• • Personality: Macaws are highly social and require significant attention from their owners. They are capable of developing strong bonds and may become loyal companions.
  • Care Requirements: A nutritionally balanced diet is crucial for their well-being. Regular exercise, in the form of flight or play, is essential.

Budgerigar (Budgie)

Budgerigars, commonly known as budgies, are small parrots with a playful and curious disposition. They are the perfect choice for apartment dwellers due to their compact size.

• • Personality: Budgies are social and enjoy the company of other budgies. They can learn to mimic sounds and are relatively easy to tame.
  • Care Requirements: A balanced diet of seeds, pellets, and fresh greens is essential. They require ample toys and activities to keep them mentally stimulated.

Amazon Parrot

Amazon Parrots are medium to large-sized birds known for their talkative nature and vibrant colors. Originating from the Americas, they can make delightful companions.

• • Personality: Amazon Parrots are intelligent and can develop an extensive vocabulary. They are known for their spirited personalities.
  • Care Requirements: A diverse diet with nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables is crucial. They need regular social interaction and mental enrichment.

Lovebirds

Lovebirds are small, social parrots that form strong bonds with their mates or owners. Their charming personalities and affectionate behavior make them popular pets.

• • Personality: Lovebirds thrive on social interaction and can become inseparable from their partner. They enjoy activities like shredding toys and swinging.
  • Care Requirements: A diet of seeds, pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables is essential. They require a spacious cage with toys and perches.

Conures

Conures are playful and colorful parrots that originate from South and Central America. Their energetic nature and cheerful demeanor make them great family pets.

• • Personality: Conures are social and love being the center of attention. They enjoy interactive playtime with their owners.
  • Care Requirements: A diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and pellets is essential. Regular exercise is vital to keep them happy and healthy.

Caique

Caiques are lively and clownish parrots that love to play and entertain their owners. Originating from South America, they bring joy with their comical antics.

• • Personality: Caiques are outgoing and enjoy interacting with their owners. They are known for their acrobatics and playful behavior.
  • Care Requirements: A varied diet with seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetables is essential. They require ample space for play and exercise.

Pionus Parrot

Pionus Parrots are gentle and calm birds known for their quiet demeanor. They make wonderful companions for those seeking a quieter pet.

• • Personality: Pionus Parrots are laid-back and enjoy a peaceful environment. They are loyal and form strong bonds with their owners.
  • Care Requirements: A diet of pellets, seeds, fruits, and vegetables is essential. They require regular social interaction and mental stimulation.

Senegal Parrot

Senegal Parrots are intelligent and social birds native to Africa. Their playful nature and ability to talk make them fascinating companions.

• • Personality: Senegal Parrots are curious and enjoy exploring their surroundings. They can develop a vocabulary of several words.
  • Care Requirements: A balanced diet of pellets, seeds, fruits, and vegetables is essential. Regular out-of-cage time and interaction are vital.

Quaker Parrot (Monk Parakeet)

Quaker Parrots, also known as Monk Parakeets, are social and inquisitive birds with a playful nature. They have a charming ability to mimic sounds.

• • Personality: Quaker Parrots are intelligent and can learn tricks and words. They enjoy interactive toys and puzzles.
  • Care Requirements: A varied diet with pellets, seeds, vegetables, and fruits is crucial. They require plenty of mental stimulation.

Eclectus Parrot

Eclectus Parrots are strikingly colorful birds with distinct sexual dimorphism. They are known for their calm temperament and ability to mimic speech.

• • Personality: Eclectus Parrots are gentle and enjoy a peaceful environment. They can develop a broad vocabulary.
  • Care Requirements: A diverse diet with fruits, vegetables, and pellets is essential. Regular social interaction is vital for their well-being.

Indian Ringneck Parakeet

Indian Ringneck Parakeets are intelligent and independent birds with charming personalities. They have a talent for learning and can be talkative.

• • Personality: Indian Ringneck Parakeets are curious and enjoy exploring their surroundings. They may bond strongly with one person.
  • Care Requirements: A balanced diet of pellets, seeds, fruits, and vegetables is crucial. They require mental stimulation through toys.

Rosella Parakeet

Rosella Parakeets are colorful and lively birds native to Australia. They are known for their vibrant plumage and playful behavior.

• • Personality: Rosella Parakeets are social and enjoy the company of other rosellas. They may not be as vocal as other parrots.
  • Care Requirements: A diet of pellets, seeds, and fresh fruits and vegetables is essential. Regular flight and exercise are beneficial.

Hawk-headed Parrot

Hawk-headed Parrots are striking birds with a unique feather arrangement resembling a head crest. They are intelligent and can be affectionate.

• • Personality: Hawk-headed Parrots are playful and enjoy interactive playtime with their owners. They may become territorial.
  • Care Requirements: A varied diet of seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetables is essential. Mental stimulation is crucial to prevent boredom.

Lorikeets

Lorikeets are colorful and energetic parrots known for their brush-like tongues and love for nectar-rich foods. They are popular for their acrobatics.

• • Personality: Lorikeets are lively and enjoy exploring their surroundings. They can be noisy and are best suited for experienced bird owners.
  • Care Requirements: A specialized diet of nectar, fruits, and vegetables is essential. Regular access to nectar feeders and mental stimulation is crucial.

Parrotlets

Parrotlets are small parrots with big personalities. They may be small in size, but they have a bold and confident demeanor.

• • Personality: Parrotlets are intelligent and can be trained to do tricks. They are territorial and may prefer being the only bird in the household.
  • Care Requirements: A varied diet with seeds, pellets, and fresh fruits and vegetables is essential. They enjoy interactive toys and puzzles.

Lories

Lories are colorful parrots closely related to lorikeets, known for their playful and active behavior. They are social birds that enjoy interaction.

• • Personality: Lories are lively and may become noisy during play. They are best suited for experienced bird owners.
  • Care Requirements: A specialized diet of nectar, fruits, and vegetables is essential. They need plenty of mental stimulation and space for play.

Poicephalus Parrots

Poicephalus Parrots are small to medium-sized birds with charming personalities. They are intelligent and can develop a close bond with their owners.

• • Personality: Poicephalus Parrots are playful and enjoy interactive play with their owners. They may become territorial.
  • Care Requirements: A diverse diet with pellets, seeds, fruits, and vegetables is essential. Regular social interaction is crucial.

Galah (Rose-breasted Cockatoo)

Galahs, also known as Rose-breasted Cockatoos, are affectionate and sociable birds native to Australia. They are known for their pink plumage.

• • Personality: Galahs are friendly and enjoy socializing with their owners. They can be talkative and form strong bonds.
  • Care Requirements: A balanced diet with seeds, pellets, fruits, and vegetables is crucial. They need regular mental stimulation and social interaction.

FAQs

Can Parrots Be Kept Alone?

Parrots are highly social creatures, and while some species may tolerate being alone for short periods, they thrive in the company of their own kind or human companions. If you’re considering keeping a single parrot, be prepared to provide extra attention, stimulation, and social interaction to keep them happy.

How Long Do Parrots Live as Pets?

The lifespan of parrots as pets varies significantly depending on the species. Smaller parrots like budgies may live around 10-15 years, while larger species like Macaws and African Greys can live up to 50-80 years or more with proper care.

Are Parrots Good Talkers?

Many parrot species, especially African Greys, Amazon Parrots, and some Cockatoos, are renowned for their ability to mimic and talk. However, individual capabilities vary, and not all parrots become proficient talkers. Consistent training and interaction are essential to encourage talking behavior.

What Is the Best Cage Size for Parrots?

The ideal cage size for a parrot depends on its species and size. As a general rule, the cage should be large enough to allow the bird to stretch its wings fully and move comfortably. Parrots also need ample space for toys, perches, and activities.

Can Parrots Eat Fruits and Vegetables?

Yes, many parrot species can eat fruits and vegetables as part of a balanced diet. However, it’s essential to research the specific dietary requirements of your parrot species, as some fruits and vegetables may be toxic to them.

Do Parrots Require Veterinary Care?

Yes, parrots require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they are in good health. Routine examinations can help detect potential health issues early, and veterinarians can provide guidance on proper care and nutrition.

Conclusion: 

Choosing a parrot as a pet is an exciting and rewarding decision that comes with its unique joys and responsibilities. With 20 diverse types of parrots to keep as pets, there’s a perfect feathered friend for every bird enthusiast. Remember to research the specific needs and characteristics of each species before making your decision. Providing a loving and stimulating environment, along with proper care and attention, will ensure a happy and fulfilling companionship with your avian friend.

Whether you opt for the talkative African Grey, the playful Cockatiel, or the majestic Macaw, parrots are sure to bring color and joy into your life. So, open your heart and home to these delightful creatures and embark on a delightful journey filled with love, laughter, and colorful moments.