The term “parrot” is given to a broad order of over 350 birds. This order includes species such as the macaw, cockatiels, cockatoos, lovebirds and parakeets. Parrots live in warm habitats all over the world, and can be found in Central America, South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and even the southern United States.
Parrots can be identified by their curved beak and by the formation of their feet. All species of parrot are zygodactyls, which means that they have four toes on each foot with two facing forward and two facing backward.
One of the more recognizable species is the Blue-and-yellow Macaw. These birds are easily identifiable, as their feathers are bright, vivid shades of blue, green and yellow. Blue-and-yellow macaws typically have bright blue wings and tail, a golden-yellow underside, and a green forehead. The macaws can grow up to 34 inches long, and weigh up to three pounds.
Most parrots, including the Blue-and-yellow Macaw, eat a diet consisting of nuts, seeds, and fruits. Some species may also eat flowers and small insects. In the wild, many species of parrot can live as long as 80 years.
Parrots are also widely known for their ability to “talk.” While parrots do not have the ability to form words or speech, they are skilled mimics and can quickly learn and repeat a sound. This is because parrots are very social animals. In the wild, parrots live in flocks and these flocks can include several hundred birds. Their vocal skills help the parrots communicate and keep track of the other members of their flock.