Psittaciformes – Parrots & cockatoos

Parrots are among the most intelligent of birds, with brain-to- body size ratios comparable to higher primates

Members of this order come in many different shapes, colors, and sizes but usually have hooked, curved bills, strong legs, and peculiar clawed feet with two toes pointing forward and two backward.

These birds are found mainly in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world—almost all parrots nest in holes found in tree branches – tree hollows.

Their loud vocalizations maintain their pair bonds and strengthen flock cohesion. Parrots also learn vocalizations quite aptly, being able to mimic sounds easy. Their vivid colors and ability for mimicry have led to over a third of species being threatened by extinction due to the pet trade, habitat loss, and hunting.