Parrots

Parrots belong to the order of Psittaciformes. Members of this order are easily recognized by their strong, uniquely hooked bills and their toe arrangement (two toes face forward and two face to the rear). Most species are brightly colored -- frequently with bright greens. Parrots range from the size of a sparrow to about 3 feet in length. Parrots are found throughout the tropical and south temperate regions of the world, and are most diverse in South America and Australia. Nearly all species dwell in trees, and feed on fruits, nuts, and other vegetable matter. The relationships of this order to other bird groups is not yet well understood.