Parrotlets

Parrotlets are small parrots belonging to the 3 genera, Forpus, Touit, and Nannopsittaca. The smallest of all New World parrots, these birds are native to Central and South America but are popular as pets worldwide. The Pacific and green-rumped species are the most common in the pet trade.

Types of Parrotlets

Species

Here is a list of all the different types of parrotlets based on their genus:

Forpus

• Pacific Parrotlet (Celestial Parrotlet)
• Green-rumped Parrotlet
• Yellow-faced Parrotlet
• Spectacled Parrotlet
• Mexican Parrotlet
• Turquoise-winged Parrotlet
• Cobalt-rumped Parrotlet
• Dusky-billed Parrotlet (Sclater’s Parrotlet)
• Riparian Parrotlet

Touit

• Red-fronted Parrotlet
• Lilac-tailed Parrotlet
• Golden-tailed Parrotlet
• Blue-fronted Parrotlet (Red-winged Parrotlet)
• Sapphire-rumped Parrotlet
• Scarlet-shouldered Parrotlet
• Spot-winged Parrotlet
• Brown-backed Parrotlet

Nannopsittaca

• Tepui Parrotlet
• Manu Parrotlet (Amazonian Parrotlet)

Color Morphs

The Pacific parrotlet comes in several colors and combinations thanks to selective breeding. Though the wild parrotlets are primarily green, its color morphs include:

• Albino
• American Turquoise
• American White
• American Yellow
• Blue
• Green
• Creamino
• Fallow
• Grey
• Lutino
• Marble
• Pied
• Cinnamon
• Misty
• Dark Factor

Parrotlets as Pets

Their feisty aggressive nature has not dampened their popularity in the pet trade. But it is important to mention that parrotlets are not recommended for aviaries. They are better kept as pairs, as they bond well with a mate. If trained and handed from a young age, the birds can also form strong bonds with their humans.

But, given their aggression, and propensity to bite, it is better to keep children away from them.

FAQ