Top 10 Most Popular Types of Parrots

Parrots are becoming more and more popular as pets in captivity. People love to train them and teach them tricks and to speak phrases. In the wild, these birds have been admired because of their beauty, intelligence, and outgoingness. They have similar characteristics as humans, as they replicate human words and sounds. Parrots have very childlike behavior and thinking, with some behavioral scientists demonstrating they have the intelligence and communication skills of a 3 year old. This is why these birds make fantastic companions and pets.

There are many kinds of parrot types in the animal kingdom with varieties based on size, shape, and feather colors. The following outlines the top 10 most popular types as pets and in the wild:

1.) Parakeets - Parakeet parrots are known by their long tails, and tend to be a more favored parrot type compared to the Cockatiel for example. Known as a small parrot, the parakeet has bright feather colors. Their behavior is typically energetic and they crave human interaction.

2.) Cockatiels - Cockatiels are smaller parrot types typically identified by their notable head and tail feathers. Males have great speaking abilities, while the female Cockatiels are quieter, but are more aggressive. The females also are more likely to bite and hiss. The Cockatiels are good pets in captivity, as they are very sociable and love to interact.

3.) Lorries & Lovebirds - These birds are from South America and have been an inspiration to many as they are extremely peaceful birds with bright feather colors. They do not require much space, are able to maintain great health, and love to be with other parrots.

4.) Conures - The Conures are more playful birds that are large parakeets, which have a slightly smaller build with longer tails. These parrots are from Central and South America, and have friendly personalities, sometimes leading to louder squawks.

5.) Macaws -These birds are mostly recognized for their large frame and bright rainbow colored feathers and beaks. Originating from the tropical regions of South and Central America, the macaw shows great intelligence with fantastic speaking abilities.

6.) Amazon -Also known as green parrots (since most have an overwhelming green feather color), Amazon parrots are very smart, talkative, and friendly. These parrots are easier to train than other parrots, and can duplicate the human voice of their owner.

7.) Cockatoo -Most known by their standing head crest and arched bills, these parrots types are larger than many other parrots but have less color in their feathers. These parrots are both friendly and talkative with frequent squawking and screaming.

8.) Caiuges - This parrot type is regarded as both smart and attractive in the parrot world. These parrots have an array of different feather colors, and have been referred to as the seven-colored parrot from their vast feather colors.

9.) Poicephalus Parrots -Originally from Africa, these birds are usually on the shy side but have endearing personalities. Ranging in size from small to medium, this parrot type demonstrates good and social behavioral traits.

10.) Parrotlets - These types are also known for their smaller size. With energetic, enjoyable, and courteous attributes, they can duplicate human voice and words, but are harder to understand. In the wild, these birds travel in flocks.

Parrots can be a fun and rewarding pet to own and care for. It is important to ensure your parrot receives proper training and love with much time devoted to their parrot. Remember this is a long term commitment, since parrots can live literally decades.