Small Parrot Species

Known for their bright feather patterns and talents at voice mimicry, parrots are popular both as pets and as wild birds. Long-lived birds, parrots are highly social and intelligent. They require attention and enrichment, and the larger species need large, heavy duty housing that can contain their powerful beaks. Smaller parrot species abound and come from almost every tropical location. Small parrot species are just as quick-witted as their larger family members and make for easier physical care.

  1. Parrotlets

    • Parrotlets are petite birds with large personalities. They are considered lovable and extremely sociable but are known to retain their larger cousin's feisty boldness and sense of curiosity. Those looking for a Parrotlet can choose from seven species. Parrotlets are classified as Pacifics, Blue Wings, Green Rumps, Mexicans, Sclater's, Spectacles, or Yellow Face. Averaging only 4 to 5 inches in length, Parrotlets are extremely energetic small parrots and require high quality, calorie-rich foods to maintain their activity level.

    Quaker Parrots

    • Quaker parrots are highly social but can become aggressive if not managed properly

      Quaker parrots are popular parrots for new bird enthusiasts. Averaging around 11 to12 inches, Quaker parrots are a manageable size and are relatively inexpensive due to their ease of breeding. Quakers are known as a species of small parrot easy to train to talk. Native to South America, Quaker parrots are generally green all over but can sometimes have a blue feather coloring as well. Quakers require lots of hands-on attention, as they are bold and can become aggressive towards humans or other pets if not given proper enrichment, training, and attention.

    African Grey Parrots

    • African Grey parrots have distinctive red tail feathers.

      African Grey parrots are a beautiful, mottled grey and white color with bright red tail feathers. Adults are around 12 to 14 inches in length. There are two types of African Grey Parrots, Congos and Timnehs. Both types are extremely intelligent pets. African Greys are considered one the most intelligent species of parrots, learning to mimic sounds and words and solve puzzles.

    Eclectus Parrots

    • Eclectus parrots are native to Australia, the Solomon Islands, and New Zealand. Eclectus are a small species of parrots that are also sexually dimorphic, meaning the males and females exhibit very differing physical appearances. Males are predominantly green with red and blue markings whereas females are bright crimson with blue or violet markings. Eclectus species average around 12 inches in size.They are strong fliers and often require aviary style housing to maintain their necessary exercise requirements.