The Ultimate Parrot Quiz

There are around 350 species of parrots.

Tropical and subtropical regions are where you find parrots.

Only one -- the Carolina parakeet -- which became extinct in the early 1900s.

It has four toes: two facing forward and two backward.

The parrot uses one foot to grasp food while balancing on the other.

The hyacinth macaw can reach about 40 inches (1 m).

Parrots communicate by squawking, twittering or shrieking.

They mostly eat plants, fruit and seeds.

They usually nest in holes in trees or in rock crevices.

Parrots tend to be monogamous and the largest species mates for life.

It is mostly flightless -- it climbs trees then glides down to the ground.

They are usually kept by people who admire their beauty, intelligence and ability to mimic the human voice.

The African grey parrot is considered the best mimic.

It should include fresh fruit and vegetables, grains, seeds and well-cooked lean meat.

Parrots, like other intelligent pets, need playful interaction with their owners

Neglected, abused or bored parrots can display neurotic behavior, such as excessive screaming or feather pulling.

Macaws, cockatoos, Amazons and African grays can live 60 or more years.

Because of loss of natural habitat and collection as pets, about 40 species have been declared endangered.

Budgerigars (budgies), originally from Australia, belong to the parakeet family, are popular because they are beautiful, gentle and easy to take care of.

The yellow-headed Amazons are famous for their singing and many have been known to learn arias from operas.