Self-Made Calcium Supplements:
- African grey parrots, known for their intelligence, have been observed grinding their own calcium supplements. Captive greater vasa parrots use date pits and pebbles to pulverize cockle shells. Male vasas then offer a regurgitated calcium-rich snack to females before mating1.
Zygodactyl Toes:
- Parrots have unique feet—two toes in front and two behind, like two pairs of opposable thumbs. This configuration allows them to grip branches and crack
Omnivorous Palates:
- Parrots are omnivores and will eat almost anything—fruit, seeds, nuts, insects, and even meat. Some species, like the rainbow-colored lories and lorikeets, feed primarily on nectar with brush-tipped tongues. Even New Zealand’s native kea have been seen attacking and killing sheep1.
Not Just Tropical Birds:
- While most parrot species live in tropical and subtropical regions, they can also be found in Australia, Asia, Central and South America, and Africa1.
- Kea parrots in New Zealand, for example, were once persecuted as sheep-killers but are now protected1.
Tool Users:
- Researchers have observed parrots using tools. For instance, greater vasa parrots grind cockle shells to create calcium powder, which they share with mates1
Colorful Plumage:
- Most parrots boast brightly colored feathers—a mix of greens, blues, yellows, and reds. Their plumage is a visual delight2.
Remember, these feathered companions are not only beautiful but also incredibly fascinating! 🦜🌟
