Perroquet

These birds are known and fascinate humans for their colors, intelligence and ability to speak for centuries. From Amerindian religious symbol to the representation of the human condition in European medieval literature, these birds have always left marks in human culture. Moche culture venerated these birds and created many artifacts bearing their likeness. Today, they are present in ornithological and pet magazines, but are also used as mascots or logos. Even though they also consumed it, the Owl Parrot was often considered by the Maori as an affectionate companion. In the 19th century, George Grey then European colonist in New Zealand, wrote in a letter that this bird behaved towards him and his friends 'more like a dog than a bird'. Parrots arrived in Europe in the baggage of explorers, then corsairs or pirates. On the old continent, during several centuries, it was in good taste to have in one's living room this chattering acrobat with often spectacular plumage, precious testimony to exoticism.

Apart from the Owl Parrot, the biological characteristics of parrots are those of the Psittaciformes. There are of course nuances for each species: see the detailed articles for more information on their description or their way of life.