Parrots are birds of the order Psittaciformes, characterized by a robust, curved beak, zygodactyl feet (two toes pointing forward and two backward), and a typically upright posture. This order includes three main clades: true parrots (Psittacidae), cockatoos (Cacatuidae), and New Zealand parrots (Strigopidae). Psittaciformes are predominantly herbivorous, with specialized cranial kinesis and powerful jaw musculature enabling efficient seed and nut processing. They exhibit complex vocal learning and advanced cognitive abilities, with relatively large brains and extended developmental periods. Many species show strong pair bonding, social flock structure, and cavity-nesting behavior, and they are largely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
New Zealand's critically endangered flightless parrot, the kakapo, started breeding last week for the first time in four years, the government conservation department said.
Plants & Animals
Jan 9, 2026
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