More than 350 species of birds fall within the order Psittaciformes, including macaws, lorikeets, cockatoos, and many other types of parrots—each with its own unique qualities. Parrots vary greatly in height and size, and, like people, they are omnivores, living on both meat and plants. In the wild, some parrots can live up to 80 years.
While they can be very different from one another, parrots do share specific traits, like curved beaks, two forward- and two backward-pointing toes, and a preference for warm climates. Certain parrot species are popular pets, and while some are still common in the wild, more and more parrot species are becoming endangered—largely as a result of human interference. This is all the more reason to stop and take notice of these fantastic creatures.
Here are 14 of the boldest, most colorful parrots you’ve seen, as well as a few fun facts about each.
Scarlet Macaw
The name macaw (Macao) refers to a family of at least 17 species of Central and South American parrots. Macaws are the largest of all parrots, ranging from one to three feet tall. Their feathers are a parade of brilliant colors, whether it is the bright blue hyacinth macaw to the gorgeous red, yellow, and blue scarlet macaw. Scarlet macaws are bright and sociable, which makes them popular pets; unfortunately, their popularity with humans, as well as habitat degradation, has contributed to certain species’ statuses as endangered and threatened.
Puerto Rican Parrot
Hawk-Headed Parrot
Sun Conure
Kakapo
The kakapo (Strigops habroptila) is less well known because it is nearly extinct. Once ranging across the islands of New Zealand, it has become so endangered that the last few kakapo were moved to the islands of Codfish, Maud, and Little Barrier Islands, which are predator-free. Kakapo are among the largest parrots, growing to over 24 inches tall.
Rosy-Faced Lovebird
Rosy-faced lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis) are aptly named with their pretty pink faces, throats, and breasts. They are native to southwestern Africa, and are popular as pets around the world. Rosy-faced lovebirds grow to 6 or 7 inches tall, and weigh only a couple of ounces.
Dusky Lory
Native to New Guinea and surrounding islands, dusky lories (Pseudeos fuscata) are dark with bright orange and yellow patches. At about 10 inches long and weighing 10 ounces, they are considered middle-sized parrots. With their endearing personalities and lovely coloration, they are among the most popular parrots in the world.
Rainbow Lorikeet
Lories and lorikeets are incredibly similar in appearance. If colorful birds intrigue you, look no further than the rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus). These fabulous birds typically sport blue colors on their head and underparts, orange on their necks, and green on their tails. Their beaks are a bright red. Rainbow lorikeets are 10-12 inches tall and weigh between 2.6 and 5.5 ounces.
Eclectus
Eclectus parrots (Eclectus roratus) are native to Papua New Guinea and the surrounding region. They are among the largest parrots, with a height of 17 and 20 inches. What makes the eclectus especially interesting is its “eclectic” plumage. Males are bright green while females and red and purple; this dimorphism is unusual among parrots.
Galah (Rose-Breasted) Cockatoo
Cockatoos are known for their beautiful “crowns,” and the rose-breasted cockatoo (Eolophus roseicapillus) has pretty pink crown feathers. At about two-feet tall, this Australian native is a popular pet because of its pleasant personality and impressive ability to “speak” and do tricks. In fact, its nickname galah means “fool” in Australian slang.
Bronze-Winged Parrot
Its name says it all. While mostly blue in color, the bronze-winged parrot (Pionus chalcopterus) can be recognized by its signature wings. The bronze-winged parrot can be found in various South American countries, including Peru, Venezuela, and Colombia. While the species population is in decline, the IUCN classifies this parrot as Least Concern.
Collared Lory
The collared lory (Phigys solitarius) sports a dark blue-purple top, deep red abdomen, and bright green wings and back of neck. This noisy lorikeet is commonly found on islands in Fiji and can fly up to nearly 4,000 feet high.
Patagonian Conure
The Patagonian conure (Cyanoliseus patagonus) is also known as the burrowing parrot. As the name suggests, this bird burrows and nests in grassland cliffs in Argentina and other South American countries. The Patagonian conure has olive-brown feathers at the top of its head that turn charcoal grey down its back. Other colors include yellow, olive-green, and orange-red.
