Animals • Animals
ANIMALS
PLAYFUL PARROTS!
by Amy Redman
The parrot is a bird which is known for its bright colors and noisy calls. Many, such as the African Grey can even be taught to talk! Friendly and sociable, the parrot family is a large one, having about 330 different species which live in tropical forests and woodlands in warmer parts of the world.
FEATURES
Parrots are 4-40 inches (10-130 cm.) in total length and are mostly brightly colored, although there are some drab grey, brown or black species. 		 
Most parrots are thick set birds with short necks and long beaks. When a parrot opens its beak, both parts hinge against its skull, allowing the bird to bite into large objects. They have small eyes that are surrounded by a patch of bare skin called a cere. Their feet (called zygalactyl) are short but strong, with four fleshy, clawed toes. Parrots use their toes to grip branches and pick up food.
CRESTS
Types of parrots called cockatoos have feathery crests, which males raise and lower in courtship. They bob and swing their heads at the same time-this makes the crests more obvious and aims to attract the attentions of a nearby female!
DIET
Parrots are almost entirely vegetarian. Their beaks are similar but their tongues are shaped to suit different kinds of plant food. Most parrots find their food in trees, but some, such as Kakapos and Budgerigars, feed mainly on the ground.
PARROTS IN DANGER
About a quarter of the world's parrot species are endangered. Some have suffered because they are caught and sold as pets. Others are in decline because their forest home is disappearing. Many are having to face predatory animals introduced by humans.

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