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Is a parrotlet right for you?

If you are new to the avian world, we suggest you peruse the following articles first. Additional information can be found further down the page.

From the perch, by Dee Hayston of Avian Network
	New to the avian world and Start off right
	Buy from an avian breeder
	Time and Your Budget
	Veterinarian
	Food and Water
	Airborne Dangers and Air Quality
	Cages and Cage Liners
	Perches and Toys
	General Health and Bathing
	Heat, Humidity, and Light
	Interaction, Multiple Birds, Breeding

There are many opinions available for those who are looking to purchase a parrotlet. If your breeder does not ask about your household, be sure to offer information regarding your family dynamics, including children and their ages, and of course other pets. Knowing your current situation will help both of you in the way of informed decision-making and advice.

Opinion #1 - The experienced bird owner

Considering the fact that you already know the time and long term commitment involved in owning a bird, a parrotlet is the perfect choice. Whether you have had birds in the past or currently own one or more, you are willing to prepare food, spend time socializing and training, and make the parrotlet an active member of your household. If you are adding a parrotlet to an existing flock, you also understand the added responsibilities of supervision while one or more birds are out of the cage. You already know that some birds cannot be out together at the same time. Additionally, some parrotlets can be very territorial with their human flock and their cage. The larger size of an existing bird may not deter some from aggressively defending their perceived territory, while some may wind up living in constant fear.

Opinion #2 - Household with small children, dogs, or cats

Adding a parrotlet into this situation is asking for trouble. It is a sad fact that most parrotlets die in accidents --- largely in part due to their inquisitive nature, small size, inattentiveness by the owner or lack of proper supervision while the bird is out of the cage. It only takes a split second for a parrotlet to flutter to the floor in reach of another animal or for a child to improperly grab or squeeze this delicate bird. Drowning in a small amount of standing water, being stepped on, or flight feathers that have suddenly grown enough for extended flying, are more reasons this tiny parrot requires additional consideration in this instance. Some breeders may not sell a parrotlet to this type of household. Others may want to see the child/children interact with the bird first or incorporate their presence into the appointments to educate them with their parents on handling and required care.

Opinion #3 - First bird for a younger child

Parrotlets are true parrots, hence they require more time and care than most children are able to provide long term. Consider the fact that a parrotlet could live up to (or more than) 20 years. What happens to the bird when your child is no longer interested in its well-being? Normal adolesence shows interest in school, sports, friends, dating, and eventually college. Please think of the bird in terms of a life long family member.

Opinion #4 - Townhome, condo, or apartment dwellers

Parrotlets make perfect companions for those living in smaller households or that have neighbors close by. They are fairly quiet and can live quite comfortably in medium-sized cages.