Parakeet or Parrot are admired for their beauty, grace, and charm. This world is full of fascinating and intelligent birds. They vary in shape, size, and color; therefore, people love having them as pets.
If we talk specifically about parrots and parakeets, both belong to the same family—Psittacidae. However, the parrot is a broad term with many colorful species, and parakeets are one of them. There are lots of differences between them.
They vary in physical appearance, habits,
and behavior. They have different types and characteristics. In this article, we highlight the main differences between parakeets and parrots and make it easy to choose between them.
Let’s have a look!
Difference Between Parakeet and Parrot Family
No doubt, both parrots and parakeets are extraordinary species.
Some are known for their beautiful color, while others are liked for their intelligence.
Whatever the reason is, people love to have them in their homes. But this is a brutal row, so make it simple by knowing the following differences between a parakeet and parrot.
Types:
Parakeets are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the family Psittacidae. They are one of the subfamilies of Parrots. However, there are almost 115 species of parakeets. You can choose from Budgie to lavender parakeets.
Parrots belong to the family Psittacidae, and there are around 387 types of parrots or species of parrots belonging to 87 genera. Furthermore, parrot species are available in a wide range of sizes. You can choose from the smallest parrotlets to the larger Macaw.
| Parakeets | Parrots |
| Around 115 species globally | 387 types from 87 genera |
| Small to medium-sized birds | A variety from the smallest to the largest |
Appearance:
Parakeets have vibrant colors and slender bodies. They have long tails as compared to parrots. There are many fancy-colored parakeets, like lavender parakeets. They have elliptical wings.
Parrots are well-known for their mesmerizing and colorful feathers. They have a strong beak but shorter tail. They look bulky because of their short neck and stout feet. Their wings are broad and pointed.
| Parakeets | Parrots |
| Vibrant colors & slender bodies | Known for colorful feathers |
| Long tails | Strong beak but shorter tail |
Behaviour:
Parakeets are social birds and one of the most vocal birds in the parrot family who can create a special bond with their owners. They also show feelings of joy and happiness. For example, they start talking and singing songs whenever they are happy. Parakeets are also able to mimic human speech and can speak many vocabulary words that they can hear.
Parrots have an intense amount of emotions and feelings. When they need attention, they start whistling. In case of extreme joy, they start clicking and chirping. They even cry when upset, and when they are frightened, they squeal. Parrots mimic human sounds better than parakeets.
| Parakeets | Parrots |
| Most vocal birds | Love to speak |
| Express Feelings | Intense of feelings |
| Can speak | Better ability to mimic |
Lifespan:
Parakeets have a shorter lifespan and live around 5-15 years.
Parrots live longer than parakeets. They have an average lifespan of 80 years.
| Parakeets | Parrots |
| shorter lifespan | longer lifespan |
| 5-15 years | 80 years |
Pet Parrots and Parakeets: Which One is Best?
While deciding which one is best, either parakeet or parrot, it is essential to focus on your preference, home, and lifestyle.
Parakeets are smaller than parrots and have the exact needs of all types, while in the case of parrots, each style has its own needs and demands.
The larger one requires more attention, care, and supplements.
FAQs
Is Taking Parakeet Care easy?
It is not as easy as many people think. Parakeets need proper food, water, social interaction, mental stimulation, and exercise to remain healthy.
Do Parakeets Need Fresh Air?
Yes, they do because they are easily exposed to toxins that affect their respiratory system.
What type of temperature do Parakeets like?
Parakeets love to live in moderate temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees. However, buddies tolerate up to 90 degrees of heat.
Parakeet or Parrot – Bottom Line
While choosing a pet, complete research is required depending on your lifestyle, home, and space.
The primary difference between parakeets and parrots is their appearance and ability to talk.
Parrots are more intelligent and trainable; they have louder sounds than parakeets. On the other hand, parakeets are more affectionate than parrots and require less care. So, if you are still confused