Squat, the Parrotlet

Squat, the Parrotlet
By Julie Forsythe

Squat the Parrotlet is about 8 years old and lives with cockatiels, doves, and parakeets. They're all in an 8' by 4' aviary. He’s the smallest bird but acts like the biggest one. Parrotlets are also called the "pocket parrot."

As with all parrots, then need to be taught limits and understand their relationship with their owners. Pacific Parrotlets, especially males, often learn to speak. While most only learn a few words or phrases there are others that literally know hundreds of words. They have very high pitched but easily understood voices.

Parrotlets love to play with all kinds of toys. Toys made of leather, rawhide, wood and rope are much appreciated.

A single parrotlet makes the best pet and avoids problems such as jealousy and aggression. Many people feel because they are at work or school all day their parrotlet may become "lonely" and would appreciate another parrotlet companion. Unfortunately, "share" is not a word generally known in the parrotlet vocabulary, so keeping two together usually results in fighting and problems between them; especially if a new one is introduced after the first one has established its territory. They often become jealous and combative with the new parrotlet or utterly ignore it. It often results in the owner having to house them separately.

Their life span is believed to be around 15 to 20 years but no one knows for sure.

The Alaska Bird Club • P.O. Box 101825 • Anchorage AK 99510
akbirdclub@yahoo.com