Parrots are some of the most beautiful birds out there. They come in all kinds of colors, patterns, and sizes.
Their beauty, intelligence, and social nature contributed to their domestication in ancient times.
We don’t support the illegal bird trade, but we stay behind bird parents who offer a loving home to rescue birds and birdy parents who purchase their pet birds from humane breeders.
We handpicked 16 most colorful parrots that will take your breath away.
Let’s fly.
Colorful Parrots
Sun Conure
Meet the Sun Conure, a dazzling parrot with a petite frame, native to South America. Its feathers are in vibrant yellow and orange – hence the name. Interestingly, their scientific name, Aratinga Solstitialis, reflects their connection to the sun, emphasizing their radiant appearance.
The Sun Conure isn’t just a visual delight; these lively birds are renowned for their playful and affectionate personalities. These social birds thrive on interaction and make fantastic companions, brightening up both your home and your day.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Aratinga Solstitialis |
| Origin | South America |
| Colors | Orange, yellow, green, and blue. |
| Approximate size (length) | 12 inches/30.5cm |
Scarlet Macaw
The Scarlet Macaw is a showstopper in the world of parrots, hailing from the vibrant landscapes of South America. Imagine a bird that’s a living rainbow – red, blue, and yellow hues seamlessly blend across its sizable frame, creating a visual masterpiece.
The scarlet macaw is one of the largest parrots in the world, with a body length of up to 3 feet (91 cm) and a wingspan of up to 5 feet (152 cm). Its plumage is mostly bright red, with yellow underwings and blue wingtips and tail. Its beak is large and powerful, and its eyes are dark brown.
Beyond its stunning appearance, Scarlet Macaws are among the most intelligent and social species, making them popular among parrot enthusiasts.
The history behind these birds is also quite interesting – there was a time when scientists mistook adult and juvenile Scarlet Macaws for distinct species due to their age-related color variations.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Ara Macao |
| Origin | Humid forests of America |
| Colors | Yellow, red, and blue. |
| Approximate size (length) | 32 inches/ 81.3cm |
Rosy-Faced Lovebird
Rosy-Faced Lovebirds are pint-sized parrots originating from southwestern Africa. They’re a burst of color and personality. Rosy-Faced Lovebird has a brilliant green body adorned with a splash of rosy-pink on their faces, giving it its distinctive look and name.
They often form tight-knit flocks in the wild, showcasing their strong social bonds. They’re among the most intelligent and interactive parrots, making them charming and easy to bond with.
Rosy-Faced Lovebird has a captivating appearance and playful nature, making them one of the favorites among bird enthusiasts. These lovebirds have been popular companions for centuries, with records dating back to the 18th century.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Agapornis Roseicollis |
| Origin | South-Western Africa |
| Color | Green, blue, yellow, and pink. |
| Approximate size (length) | Usually varies from five to seven inches/12.7 to 17.8 cm |
Rainbow Lorikeet
Rainbow Lorikeet originates from Australia and is a parrot that’s a living spectrum of colors – imagine a combination of deep blues, vibrant greens, striking reds, and a splash of yellow decorating their feathers.
Besides their stunning appearance, Rainbow Lorikeets are known for their playful behavior and inquisitive personalities. These social birds often gather in noisy flocks, adding a lively soundtrack to the Australian skies.
These parrots have been gracing the Australian landscape for eons, captivating both locals and bird enthusiasts worldwide.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Trichoglossus Moluccanus |
| Origin | Northern and Eastern Australia |
| Colors | Orange, yellow, green, blue, red, and typically a bit of brown (around neck) |
| Approximate size (length) | 12 inches/30.5 cm |
Dusky Lory
Dusky Lory is a parrot native to New Guinea. Cloaked in a mesmerizing combination of deep purples and blues, these medium-sized bird is a beautiful addition to the avian world. Their scientific name, Pseudeos Fuscata, relates to their dusky appearance.
Dusky Lories aren’t just visually stunning; they’re known for their intelligence and inquisitive nature. Their playful character and ability to mimic sounds add a layer of entertainment to their charm – an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant and interactive avian companion.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Pseudeos Fuscata |
| Origin | New Guinea and the islands of Batanta, Salawati, and Yapen |
| Colors | Orange, yellow, and golden-brown |
| Approximate size (length) | 10 inches/25.4 cm |
Red-Crowned Amazon
Red-Crowned Amazons come with a burst of green adorned with a bold red crown atop their head. These birds, scientifically known as Amazona viridigenalis, aren’t only visually striking but also boast a rich history.
Revered by ancient civilizations, the Red-Crowned Amazon was considered sacred by the Aztecs. Their engaging personalities make them cherished companions, and their historical significance adds an intriguing to their personality.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a bird lover, the Red-Crowned Amazon is a fascinating blend of beauty and cultural heritage.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Amazona Viridigenalis |
| Origin | North-Eastern Mexico |
| Colors | Green, red, and blue |
| Approximate size (length) | 12 inches/30.5cm |
Galah (Rose-Breasted Cockatoo)
Galah, also known as the Rose-Breasted Cockatoo, is a charismatic parrot native to Australia. Eolophus Roseicapilla, their scientific name, hints at their rosy appearance. This medium-sized bird is a delightful sight, featuring a striking combination of pink and grey feathers, giving it a distinguished look.
Historically, people considered Galahs as pests, but also admired them. This showcases their adaptability to people and different environments.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Eolophus Roseicapilla |
| Origin | Australia |
| Colors | Pink, white, and grey |
| Approximate size (length) | 14 inches/35.6 cm |
Eclectus
Eclectus, or Eclectus Roratus, is one of the most intellectual and unique parrots out there. It’s native to the Solomon Islands and known for its extreme sexual dimorphism – males and females boast drastically different colors.
Males boast a vibrant green plumage with bright splashes of red, while females dazzle in a deep red hue. These parrots have majestic appearance and intriguing character.
Historically, they have been revered as sacred birds in their native regions.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Eclectus Roratus |
| Origin | Solomon Islands, Sumba, New Guinea and nearby islands, North-Eastern Australia and the Maluku Islands |
| Colors (males) | Bright green, with a splash of bright blue on the wing, a bright red underwing, and a horn-colored beak |
| Colors (males) | Red with a dark violet belly and a black beak |
| Approximate size (length) | 16 inches/40.6 cm |
Collared Lory
Collared Lories are one of the smaller parrots, originating from Fiji. Their feathers are adorned with a vibrant red, blue, and green mix. Their behavior makes them popular among parrot enthusiasts, as they can be quite energetic and social.
Their scientific name is Phigys Solitarius, which reflects their solitary habits in the wild. Historically, these parrots have been an important part of Fijian culture, symbolizing companionship and vitality.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Phigys Solitarius |
| Origin | Islands of Fiji |
| Colors | Green, red, and black |
| Approximate size (length) | Eight inches/20.3 cm |
Bronze-Winged Parrot
When it comes to unique patterns and colors, you’ll be surprised by the beauty of the Bronze-Winged Parrot, a medium-sized bird native to the forests of New Guinea and nearby islands.
You can distinguish one by its striking combination of bronze and green feathers. They’re scientifically known as Pionus Chalcopterus and their name hints at the metallic sheen of their wings.
Historically, people have admired Bronze-Winged Parrots’ elegant look and adaptability to various habitats. But these parrots aren’t only visually stunning and known for their gentle and mellow nature, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a captivating parrot.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Pionus Chalcopterus |
| Origin | South America |
| Colors | Dark blue, white, bronze |
| Approximate size (length) | 11 inches/28 cm |
Military Macaw
Meet the Military Macaw, a large and eye-catching parrot native to Mexico and Central America. Cloaked in vibrant green plumage, with touches of blue and red, these birds are a visual spectacle. A lot of ornithologists attest to their majestic presence and engaging personalities.
Ara Militaris, their scientific name, reflects their military-like green attire. Historically, Military Macaws were associated with ancient civilizations, revered for their beauty, and considered symbols of power.
These social birds form strong bonds with their human companions, showcasing both intelligence, loyalty, and kind nature.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Ara Militaris |
| Origin | Central America, South America, Mexico, Argentina |
| Colors | Bright green, bright blue, red |
| Approximate size (length) | 30 inches/ 76.2 cm |
Crimson Rosella
Crimson Rosella is another great example of a stunning parrot that originates from Australia. These medium-sized birds boast a striking combination of deep crimson, royal blue, and vibrant green feathers. A lot of bird enthusiasts are fascinated with their lively, active nature.
Their scientific name, Platycercus Elegans, reflects to their elegant appearance. Historically, Crimson Rosellas have been cherished for their captivating looks and charming personalities.
Whether in the wild or as a pet in Ausies’ homes, these parrots add color to the Australian landscape and captivate bird enthusiasts worldwide.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Platycercus Elegans |
| Origin | Easter/South-Eastern Australia |
| Colors | Crimson red, blue, green. |
| Approximate size (length) | 14 inches/35.6 cm |
Orange-Bellied Parrot
The Orange-Bellied Parrot is one of petite and endangered parrot species native to Australia. These little avian beauties come with vibrant green feathers, a brilliant orange belly, and striking blue wing markings.
Scientifically known as Neophema Chrysogaster, their golden bellies make them stand out in the parrot world. Historically, Orange-Bellied Parrots have faced habitat loss and other challenges, making them a rare and precious sight.
Orange-Bellied Parrots are a testament to the fragility of some avian beauties and the urgent need for preservation.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Neophema Chrysogaster |
| Origin | Southern Australia |
| Colors | Yellow, green, orange, blue |
| Approximate size (length) | Eight inches/20 cm |
Brown-Hooded Parrot
Brown-Hooded Parrot is a charming and medium-sized bird, with origin from South America. These birds have an elegant blend of earthy tones, with a rich brown hood that crowns their heads – hence the name, Brown-Hooded.
Scientifically classified as Pionopsitta Haematotis, their subdued yet sophisticated colors and pattern set give them a more unique appearance in the world of parrots. Avian enthusiasts admire Brown-Hooded Parrots for their calm demeanor.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Pionopsitta Haematotis |
| Origin | Columbia and Mexico |
| Colors | Brown, grey, green, olive-yellow |
| Approximate size (length) | Eight to nine inches/20.3 to 22.9 cm |
Masked Shining Parrot
Masked Shining Parrots medium-sized birds with bright colors, native to the Fiji Islands. These shinny parrots have their feathers adorned with a dazzling mix of green, blue, and yellow. But what makes them look special is the vibrant “mask” of contrasting colors around their eyes.
Scientifically known as Prosopeia Personata, the Masked Shining Parrot has been an important part of Solomon Island culture, symbolizing natural beauty.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Prosopeia Personata |
| Origin | Forest areas in the Islands of Fiji |
| Color | Black, bright green, yellow, and orange |
| Approximate size (length) | 18 inches/47 cm |
Hawk-Headed Parrot
Hawk-Headed Parrots are a medium-sized species with a striking appearance and are native to the Amazon rainforest. They resemble a miniature bird of prey and their heads are adorned with red and orange pattern.
Scientifically known as Deroptyus Accipitrinus, their name reflects their hawk-like head. Indigenous Amazonian cultures have admired these parrots for their striking features and mimicry abilities. Beyond their captivating looks, Hawk-Headed Parrots are known for their spirited personalities.
| Characteristics | |
| Name | Deroptyus Accipitrinus |
| Origin | South America |
| Colors | Black, green, grey, red, white, and pink (sometimes have a small patch of blue) |
| Approximate size (length) | 14 inches/35.6 cm |
What Is the Most Colourful Parrot in the World?
Since many parrots have a variety of colors and patterns with really bright hues, there isn’t a parrot who officially holds the title of the most colorful parrot in the world.
However, the majority of avian enthusiasts consider parrots such as Sun Conure, Scarlet Macaw, and Rainbow Lorikeet to be the most colorful ones – these species have the brightest, most colorful feathers.
The role of color in parrots
The role of color in parrots is complex and multifaceted. Color plays a role in everything from communication and camouflage to mate attraction and social status.
Communication
Parrots use color to communicate with each other in a variety of ways. For example, the bright colors of many parrot species are thought to be used to attract mates. Parrots may also use color to signal their dominance or status within a flock. Additionally, some parrots use color to communicate their mood or intentions. For example, a parrot that is feeling aggressive may flash its brightly colored feathers in order to intimidate another parrot.
Camouflage
Some parrot species use color to camouflage themselves in their environment. For example, the green feathers of many parrot species help them to blend in with the foliage of the trees in which they live. This camouflage helps to protect parrots from predators.
Mate attraction
In many parrot species, the brightness and intensity of a parrot’s plumage is an important indicator of its health and fitness. This is because bright colors are often produced by pigments that are expensive to produce. As a result, only healthy parrots can afford to produce bright colors. Parrots with bright plumage are therefore more attractive to potential mates.
Social status
In some parrot species, color is used to signal social status. For example, in some African grey parrots, the darker the feathers, the higher the parrot’s status within the flock. This is because dark feathers are more difficult to produce and maintain, and so they are a sign of a parrot’s health and fitness.
If you are thinking of adopting or acquiring a pet parrot, there are some options for first-time owners that might be better suited for beginners.
My Senior Paws is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We also participate in other affiliate programs which compensate us for referring traffic.
