© Gagana Mendis Wickramasinghe, Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Parrots, of the order Psittaciformes, are among the most captivating and intelligent creatures in the avian world. The word “parrot” is believed to come from the early 16th century, based on the French word “Perrot”. “Perrot” is a variation of the name “Peter,” which means “stone” or “rock” in the original Greek root.

Humans have been captivated by these birds for centuries with their vibrant plumage, remarkable vocal abilities, playful personalities, and complex social behaviours.

Parrots are a wide array of birds located in tropical and subtropical climates, primarily in the southern hemisphere. To be exact, there are 398 species broken up into three superfamilies: “true parrots” (Psittacoidea), “cockatoos” (Cacatuoidea), and “New Zealand parrots” (Strigopoidea). Some familiar species include the grey parrot, the macaw, and the monk parakeet. Their lifespan is one of the longest of any bird species, as some are known to possess enough intelligence to manipulate tools to be protected. It is said that the largest macaws can crush a basil nut and break open metal cages using their powerful beaks!

From the tiny pygmy parrots of Papua New Guinea to the giant macaws of South America, parrots vary in size. The largest parrot in the world is found in New Zealand, reaching 23–25 inches long and weighing 2–9 pounds. It is called the “kakapo” (Strigos habroptilus) or owl parrot. Since they are the only parrot species incapable of flying, observations of them are exceedingly rare. It is also the only parrot that exhibits nocturnal behaviour and one of the longest-living birds on the planet, with an average lifespan of 95 years. Characterized by strong, curved beaks to crack hard nuts; a large head; strong zygodactyl feet with sharp claws for climbing and feeding, and a vision sensitive to ultraviolet light, parrots play a crucial role in the wild, maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats by dispersing seeds and pollinating flowers. As omnivorous birds, parrots consume a wide variety of foods, such as fruits, seeds, nuts, insects, and meat.

Known as one of the most intelligent species of birds, from their ability to mimic human speech to their strong bonds with their flock, parrots intrigue researchers and bird enthusiasts alike. Their capacity to imitate many different sounds with advanced vocal cords has made parrots popular pets and performers, leaving no surprise as to why Hollywood often puts parrots in movies for entertainment.

It has been found that their brain development is strikingly like that of humans, and some have the intelligence of a 4-year-old toddler who could be taught memory games and tricks. Extensive studies have shown that parrots possess complex vocal learning abilities, allowing them to imitate a wide range of sounds with remarkable accuracy. This talent has made parrots a favourite subject of study for scientists interested in understanding the neural mechanisms of vocal learning in birds.

In addition, parrots are renowned for their striking and diverse plumage. These birds are a sight to behold, with a wide range of colours and patterns. Their vibrant feathers not only serve as a form of camouflage in their natural habitats but also play a crucial role in courtship displays and social interactions. The stunning beauty of parrots has made them popular subjects for artists and photographers, further highlighting the allure of these remarkable creatures.

Beyond their physical attributes, parrots also exhibit complex social behaviours that have intrigued researchers for decades. Although parrots practice monogamy during breeding seasons for reproduction, they rarely mate for life. These birds form strong bonds with their flock members and engage in intricate communication patterns to maintain social cohesion. Their ability to cooperate, share resources, and engage in complex problem-solving tasks has led scientists to compare their social dynamics to those of primates, highlighting the remarkable intelligence of these avian species.

Despite their captivating qualities, many parrot populations have been pressured by serious threats to their survival in the wild, including habitat loss, the illegal pet trade, and climate change. As a result, several species are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts are crucial to protecting these birds and ensuring their survival for future generations. Organizations dedicated to parrot conservation, work tirelessly to address these birds’ various challenges, including habitat preservation, anti-poaching measures, and public awareness campaigns.

On World Parrot Day, it is important to highlight the efforts to protect these magnificent birds. Conservation organizations and wildlife sanctuaries play a vital role in rescuing and rehabilitating parrots that have been victims of the illegal pet trade or habitat destruction. As we strive to protect and conserve parrot species, let us gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate beauty and intelligence of these extraordinary avian companions.

Written by:

Apoorwa Amarathunga,

3rd Year Undergraduate,

Business and Environment Hons.

Faculty of Science,

University of Colombo.

References:

  • Gilardi, J. D., & Munn, C. A. (1998). Patterns of activity, flocking, and habitat use in parrots of the Peruvian Amazon. The Condor, 100(3), 641-653.
  • Pepperberg, I. M. (2017). Cognitive and communicative abilities of grey parrots. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 16, 83-89.
  • S, A. (2024, May 27). Parrot Animal Facts – A-Z animals. A-Z Animals. https://a-z-animals.com/animals/parrot/
  • Wright, T. F., et al. (2008). Parrot conservation in the 21st century: From bad news to good news. The Auk, 125(3), 1-12.

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