So, which one is better as a pet? Our parrotlet vs. parakeet comparison should be able to help you decide!
They are both adorable creatures and can most definitely make amazing pets. But then there are some key pointers to look into before you make a decision.
Today, we will cover some important aspects such as the cost of birds, maintenance, ease of feeding, longevity, trainability and more! So buckle your seatbelts because this post is a huge one!
Contents
Parrotlet Vs. Parakeet: Background
Parakeets refer to a number of seed-eating parrots with a slender and small body, as well as tapering and long tails. On the other hand, parrotlets are a bit smaller than these parakeets. They also have short and stubby tails.
Parakeets are your cuddly, calm, and collected birds. On the other hand, parrotlets are active and always on the go. They are also territorial birds that can be feisty and always ready to defend their own.
As for their background or origin country, parakeets are natives of Australia. Their natural habitat is the dry grassland plains and they feed on some insects and grass seed. They also fly up to 30 miles in search of water during the dry season.
Parrotlets are rainforest winged creatures that are native to Central and South America, as well as Mexico. They are alert and active, mainly because this is how they are able to protect themselves from predators, which are quite common in the wild. These birds are also a little bit aggressive, but when well-trained, they can integrate well with humans.
Parakeets love to talk and have a clear voice. But parrotlets sound a little bit robotic. Yet, they are both still quite adorable no matter what. They are both colorful birds noted for their vibrant plumage that is a delight to see.
Parrotlet Vs. Parakeet: Trainability
If you like to have a pet bird that can be trained easily, then you will be happy to know that these two birds are trainable. However, male parakeets are much better if you want a bird that you can teach how to speak since these feathered friends are quite clear and can imitate human speech well.
Their female counterparts can also learn how to speak, however, the tone of their voice is leaning more towards shrill and tinny.
As for parrotlets, they are not that easy to train to speak. In fact, their vocabulary can be quite limited, and they may only perfect about 10 up to 20 words. However, they can learn new tricks, just as parakeets can.
Parrotlet Vs. Parakeet: Cost
Before you purchase either a parakeet or a parrotlet, you may be wondering what the cost is since it is important when you are on a budget. But at the same time, you would not want to just buy a bird because it is cheap. You want to make sure that the quality is good and that the bird is healthy.
Some parakeets sold at a flea market may cost about $10 while the better ones are upwards $50. However, if you prefer to buy parakeets with rare colors and stunning plumage, expect to pay about $500.
As for parrotlets, the cost is a bit steeper even at pet shops. These birds may cost you about $100 to as much as $350. But if you invest in hand-fed parrotlets from a reputable breeder, it should cost you about $600 or even up to $750.
We recommend that you study carefully what your options are and make sure that you get the actual photos of the birds you are looking to buy instead of just a sample photo.
Aside from the bird, you want to look into cage costs. On average, the price of a parakeet or parrotlet cage should be about $100 to as much as $300. This all depends on the size of the cage and the material.
Maintenance costs are other key aspects to look into. You would want to add some perches and toys to your pet’s cage, as well as hoops and ladders for their exercise. These may cost about $100 or something more expensive.
Go for high quality and durable toys that will not be easily torn by your pet. But if you have parrotlets, do take note that they enjoy playing with shreddable toys. These are excellent for keeping the beaks strong and trimmed.
Parrotlet Vs. Parakeet: Feeding And Health
Both of these birds do well in a balanced diet that is made up of fruit, vegetables, cuttlebone for their calcium supplement, as well as seeds. You may also want to provide mineral blocks. Now, if you like to give seed pellets, these should be fine for additional vitamins.
But never change abruptly the diet you provide to your parrotlet or parakeet. New foods will be viewed as non-edible, which is why they may refuse to eat and starve. Do the transition slowly by introducing the new food while mixing with their old ones. Then eventually, increase the amount of the new seeds until they get used to it.
Read More: Parrotlet Vs Budgie – Know The Differences Between Them!
Wrap Up
Both the parrotlet and parakeet are great pets for your family. However, if you are searching for a first pet bird, then parakeets are always good. They are gentle, calm and can easily get along with humans.
On the other hand, parrotlets are a bit feisty and can resort to aggression because of their territorial nature. This is why they are not suitable for families with younger children and other household pets.
As for their health, ease of maintenance, and lifespan, both are great options. They are loving birds that thrive on a balanced diet, clean cage and ample daily exercise. Just be sure that you provide them with the attention they need and put them in a suitable location in your home that is free from toxic chemicals, and they should live for a long time!
