Parrots are more than just vibrant, entertaining birds. Their intelligence, unique behaviors, and engaging personalities make them one of the most captivating pets.

Here are ten things you might not know about these incredible creatures.

1. Parrots Can Live for Decades

Parrots are long-lived creatures, especially when compared to similarly sized birds. While most species live to be around 30 years old, some can exceed 80 years. Research has shown that larger-brained parrots tend to live longer, as their enhanced cognitive abilities make them more adaptable to their environment.

2. They Eat with Their Feet

Parrots have a remarkable way of eating. Unlike most birds, they use their strong feet to hold food, bringing it to their beak, much like humans use their hands. This behavior highlights their dexterity and intelligence.

3. Master Mimics of Human Speech

Parrots are renowned for their ability to mimic human speech. While a few other animals, like crows and mynah birds, can imitate sounds, parrots are the best at producing clear human words. In fact, some animals like Koshik the Asian elephant and NOC the beluga whale have also learned to mimic speech, but parrots remain the champions.

4. Omnivorous Diet

Parrots are omnivores, which means their diet is incredibly varied. They enjoy a wide range of foods, including fruits, seeds, nuts, insects, and even small amounts of meat. They also consume plant-based foods like leafy vegetables and flowers.

5. Lifelong Companions

Once a pair of parrots form a bond, they tend to stay together for life. This relationship is strong, and even outside of breeding seasons, they remain a pair. Separation usually occurs only if one parrot dies or if they fail to breed.

6. Some Parrots Can Weigh Up to Seven Pounds

Not all parrots are tiny! The Kakapo, a nocturnal, flightless parrot, can weigh as much as 7 pounds, making it the heaviest parrot species. It’s also one of the rarest, with only about 126 known Kakapos remaining in the world.

7. Powerful Beaks

Parrots use their beaks for many tasks, including eating, climbing, grooming, and even playing. Their beaks are incredibly strong, with some large species able to break open the tough shell of a Brazil nut with ease.

8. The Tiny Parrot

While most parrots are large, the world’s smallest parrot, the Pygmy parrot, is only 3 inches long. These tiny, agile birds are found in New Guinea and surrounding islands, where they flit through thick foliage and brush.

9. Parrots Lay Multiple Eggs

Female parrots typically lay between two to eight eggs at once. These eggs take 18 to 30 days to incubate, with both parents taking turns keeping the eggs warm. The chicks won’t grow feathers until around three weeks of age.

10. A Group of Parrots is Called a Pandemonium

A group of parrots is fittingly called a “pandemonium,” reflecting the chaotic and noisy nature of these birds. While "flock" is also used, "pandemonium" perfectly captures their loud and energetic behavior, especially in younger parrots.

Is a Parrot the Right Pet for You?

If you’re thinking about adding a parrot to your family, be prepared for a highly engaging, intelligent pet. Parrots can be demanding, needing lots of attention and social interaction. However, with time and care, they can be incredibly rewarding companions.