Since mid evil Europe, ownership of parrots has been a symbol of status. Parrots were a mark of royalty.  Christopher Columbus, the renowned explorer returned to Spain with astounding parrots as a prize as valuable as gold. So, what has been so special about parrots for centuries? Color? Talking ability? Why would all of Europe crave parrots?

 

Yes.  Christopher Columbus did indeed give his Queen Isabella a pair of beautiful Cuban Amazon Parrots from his New World voyage centuries ago.  This gentleman saw the astounding characteristics of vibrant parrots.  But not all parrots are vibrant.  And, parrots can be found in the New World and the the Old World.  Never the less, we continue to be fascinated by parrots. 

 

Beaks vs. Bills:  The most obvious physical characteristic that sets parrots apart from other birds is their strong, curved, extensive beak. The upper mandible is prominent, curves downward, and comes to a point. A parrots beak is not fused to the skull, which allows it to move independently, and contributes to the tremendous biting pressure parrots are able to exert. The lower mandible is shorter, with a sharp, upward facing cutting edge, which moves against the flat portion of the upper mandible in an anvil-like fashion. Seed eating parrots have a strong tongue which helps to manipulate seeds or position nuts in the bill so that the mandibles can apply an appropriate cracking force.  As you can see, a parrots beak is designed to make toothpicks out of wood, crack open nuts, and intricately take things apart.  Parrots need to work their beak. That's why your parrot needs a huge selection of bird toys.