About Parrot Birds

There are almost 400 different species of the parrot bird. Parrots are almost found exclusively in tropical and humid climates in every corner of earth. Most parrots are in Australia and the South Americas and can be bought as pets. Parrots have a very long life span that can reach over 100 years.

Origins of the Parrot

There is still a lot of mystery concerning when parrots first flew around the skies. Many scientists believe the first ever parrot was from the late cretaceous period in North America. There was a fossil found in Wyoming that is almost identical to today’s parrot but is at least over 60 million years old. Although some studies suggest that the oldest parrot fossils are in Europe, but they appear to be more identical to a small dinosaur.

Parrot Behavior and Intelligence

Parrots enjoy being perched atop tree canopies with their flock. They are smart enough to crack nuts open by slamming them against trees and cutting them with their razor sharp beaks. Parrots are very social birds and are known to learn most of their survival skills as babies. There have been some parrots held in captivity that are able to do basic children’s puzzles. They can also see in full color, which helps them navigate in the jungles. The most interesting skill a parrot has is the ability to see ultra violet rays, which can in turn lead them to certain fruits that strive on the sun’s rays.

A Parrot’s Diet

Parrots eat nuts, flower nectar, fruit, seeds, and flower buds. In rare cases, they will eat insects if food is scarce. Certain breeds of parrots will actually eat larvae and grubs in the cracks of trees. Since some seeds are toxic, there are parrots that use their intelligence to consume clay to block out the toxins. With over 400 different species of these birds, their diets and intelligence vary from bird to bird.