Taxonomy

Common Name	Pacific Parrotlet
Other Names	Celestial Parrotlet, Lesson's Parrotlet
Current Classification	Forpus coelestis (Lesson 1847)
Previous Classifications
Sub-Species	Forpus coelestis coelestis (Lesson 1847)
Sub-Species	Forpus c. lucida (Ridgway)
Other Names	Ridgway's Parrotlet

Statistics and Ratings

Size	12.5 cm / 4.88 inches
Weight	30 gm / 1.2 oz
Captive Breeding Status	excellent
Wild Status	good
Activity Level	high - highly inquisitive
Handfed Pet Quality	feisty, affectionate - can be stubborn

Pacific Parrotlet (Forpus coelestis coelestis)
This is a cute baby pacific parrotlet! Of course proud parents always think their kids are cute huh? The pin feathers are almost completed, getting close to being a real bird! This baby is about 4 weeks of age.

The Pacific or Celestial parrotlet is the most well-known and popular species of parrotlet. They are approximately five inches in length and weigh 30 grams. The males have a cobalt-blue streak of feathers extending from the eye as well as cobalt-blue on the rump and wings. Many females also have an eye streak as well although it is emerald green rather than cobalt. They have dark green backs and wings with yellow-green feathers around the face. The legs and beaks of both sexes are pink when hatched and gradually turn horn-colored upon maturity. In addition, several color mutations of Pacifics have been developed including blue, cobalt, dark factor green (olive), American yellow, European yellow, fallow, American white, European white, albino, lutino and possibly pied (still being researched).

Pacific parrotlets are the most dominent and fearless species of parrotlet. They are also extremely territorial. You cannot keep more than one pair in a cage together.It is not unusual for Pacific pairs to bicker with each other when they are not raising babies. Most pairs make excellent parents and can be used to foster other species of parrotlets. Most Pacifics will not get a long with other animals, including other parrots, and may attack these "intruders". Hand-fed babies make wonderful pets if placed in a home right after weaning and handled regularly. Being highly intelligent they often can be taught to do tricks and can learn to talk. While all birds are individuals, females tend to gravitate to one person while males are more gregarious. Of course, the younger a bird is adopted and the more people handle it, the more likely it will be social with everyone.

Pacific Parrotlet (Forpus coelestis lucida)
This subspecies was "lost in aviculture" until quite recently. An article has been written about this which you might want to refer to. In this subspecies the females have a teal or blue rump and the males have gray wings and backs.

This page last updated on Saturday, December 23, 2000
If you have comments, suggestions or additions to our photo gallery please email Sandee@ParrotletRanch.com