Parrotlet  

The Parrotlet parrot is the smallest of the parrot world. Parrotlets are best kept individually as they can be territorial. With their wonderfully outgoing personalities, adorable-size, colorful plumage, comical behavior and quiet voice, Parrotlets are one of the most sought-after small pet parrots. To be able to handle and train your parrot depends first on trust, so go slowly, be consistent and reward good behavior with treats. You should give a new arrival a few days to get use to you, your voice and its cage before trying to handle it. Each session is best if less than 20 minutes with about an hours rest in between. These South American birds have an average lifespan of 10-20 years.

Diet

Feed 2-3 teaspoons per day of fortified small parrot seed or pellet. Supplement with small amounts of fruits and vegetables: spinach, dandelion greens, carrots, broccoli, sweet potato, cucumber, green peppers, tomato, zucchini, pineapple, apricot, apples and banana. Parrotlets on a pelleted diet should not be fed vitamins as this can cause health problems. Many Parrotlets also enjoy a variety of treats and snacks such a seeds, nuts, eggs, and small bits of cheese. Do not feed avocado or rhubarb. A cuttlebone or mineral block is important for beak condition and oyster shell or gravel for important minerals.

Housing  

The Parrotlet is considered a small-sized bird. Provide a roomy cage, minimum 18"L 18"W 24"H, with horizontal bars 5/8” apart to make climbing easier along with an outside play area. Place at least two perches at different heights so the droppings do not get into the food. Use various sized perches and branches for healthy feet along with ropes, chains and swings for climbing and exercising. Where you place the cage is important. Place your bird's cage below eye level, near where they can socialize but in a stress-free environment, such as the corner of a living room. Parrotlets are sensitive to smoke, wind drafts and strong odors. Cover the cage at night to provide a sense of security and prevent drafts. If their environment is too stressful they may pull their feathers out.

Care

Basic cage care includes daily cleaning of the water and food dishes. Change paper bottoms daily and litter coverings every 2-3 days. Clean and disinfect the cage weekly. Wash and completely dry the perches and toys whenever they become soiled.

Grooming

Parrotlets generally maintain their nails and beaks on their own through climbing and chewing. Your birds will enjoy a bath or a light spray mist of lukewarm water 2 to 3 times weekly. Wings should be kept trim if you want to discourage flight and prevent flight through an open door or window. Occasional beak and nail trims may be needed.

Health

A balanced diet, cleanliness and plenty of exercise will prevent most parrot illnesses. Parrotlets should be allowed to spend a minimum of one to two hours out of their cages daily, and should be provided with plenty of bird chew toys to facilitate exercising their mandibles. Boredom and lack of socialization can lead to feather plucking, biting and screaming. Some signs of illness: sitting with eyes closed, ruffled feathers, lack of appetite, irregular breathing, nasal discharge, sneezing, resting with its head turned back, and any change in the dropping. Consult an avian veterinarian if any of these signs are noticed.