The Pacific Parrotlet (Forpus coelestis), also known as the Celestial Parrotlet, is one of the smallest parrot species commonly kept as a pet. Native to western Ecuador and northwestern Peru, these tiny parrots are renowned for their vivid green plumage, blue markings on males, and feisty, intelligent personalities.
Despite their small size, Pacific Parrotlets have big personalities and require daily interaction, training, and enrichment to remain tame and happy.
Pacific Parrotlet Characteristics
Size: 4.5–5.5 inches (11–14 cm) in length.
Weight: 25–30 grams.
Lifespan: 15–20 years with proper care.
Colors: Primarily green, with blue streaks on wings and backs in males; mutations include blue, yellow, and albino.
Temperament: Curious, assertive, intelligent, playful, and can form strong bonds with owners.
Pacific Parrotlet Pictures
Personality and Behavior
Pacific Parrotlets are highly intelligent, active, and bold, often displaying the confidence of much larger parrots in a compact body. They can learn tricks, step-up commands, and even mimic words or sounds.
They require daily socialization to remain tame and may become territorial or nippy if neglected. Despite their assertiveness, they are generally quiet birds, making them suitable for apartments or close living spaces.
They need daily out-of-cage time in a safe, supervised environment for exercise and mental stimulation.
Diet and Feeding
Providing a balanced diet is key for Pacific Parrotlet health:
Pellets: Should form the primary part of their diet.
Seeds: Given sparingly as treats, not as a staple diet.
Fresh vegetables: Kale, spinach, carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Fruits (occasionally): Apples, berries, mango, melon.
Fresh, clean water available daily.
Avoid avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, and salty or sugary foods.
Care Requirements
- Cage size: Minimum 18” x 18” x 18” with bar spacing of ~1/2 inch to prevent escape.
- Exercise: Daily out-of-cage time for physical and mental activity.
- Enrichment: Chewable toys, swings, ladders, and foraging opportunities to prevent boredom and aggression.
- Hygiene: Regular cage cleaning and opportunities for bathing or misting.
- Veterinary care: Annual avian vet check-ups recommended.
Common Health Problems
Pacific Parrotlets may experience:
- Feather plucking: Due to stress, boredom, or dietary issues.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Common with seed-only diets.
- Respiratory infections: Caused by drafts or poor ventilation.
- Obesity: From lack of exercise or overfeeding seeds and treats.
Seek avian veterinary care if you observe lethargy, breathing difficulties, feather loss, or abnormal droppings.
Price and Where to Buy
- Price range: $150–$400 USD depending on color mutation, hand-taming, and breeder quality.
- Where to buy:
- Reputable breeders specializing in hand-raised, socialized parrotlets.
- Bird rescue and adoption organizations.
- Avian specialty stores with clear health guarantees.
Avoid unverified sellers to ensure your bird’s welfare and health.
Are Pacific Parrotlets Good Pets?
Pacific Parrotlets are excellent companions for experienced or prepared bird owners who can provide daily interaction, training, and enrichment.
They are ideal for those seeking a small, intelligent parrot with the personality of a large bird.
With consistent handling, they can become affectionate and entertaining companions.
Conservation Note
Pacific Parrotlets are not endangered in captivity, but adopting from reputable breeders or rescues supports responsible pet ownership and welfare.