After rats and iguanas, it's time for some classic pets (not like dogs and cats but still, with some heritage as pets, pictures of parrots from a long time ago as proof). Yes, the Parrot!
Why are parrots kept as pets ? I suppose it has to do with their rich and varied colouration. In some cases, also because of their ability to imitate human speech or other sounds (many species of parrots can do that it seems).
The species of parrots that are kept as pets are: macaws, cockatoos, african greys, lovebirds, amazons, conures, budgerigars (also known as parakeets), cockatiels and mini-macaws. Pet Parrots often have their wings clipped but that doesn't mean you won't find flighted parrots as pets.
Unfortunately, their popularity as pets has led to a thriving trade in the birds ( often illegal , go figure :) ) and the result: some species are now threatened with extinction. Over the years, there have been some cases that have rocked conservationist and ornithological circles, none more than the Tony Silva case of 1996.
But we're drawing away from the purpose of this article. You should also know that larger species of parrots, like macaws, are used in falconry in some wildlife centers. That Pet Parrot you always wanted has a wild side he he.
Now, if you're asking yourself, in the end, which kind of parrot is better, we will recommend you one. They are colourful, playful and gentle. Their small size has the advantage of making these parrots suitable for children and the smaller home. They also have medium talking abilities. The fact that these parrots make for excellent pets has the effect that they are not so readily available as other parrot species, but they sure are worth the trouble or wait. So which species of parrot am I talking about ? The Pionus (you could also go for a Caique, they're basically the same). Yes, these little guys are the best pet parrots you could get :) .