Parrotlets are small and feisty, reaching a height of about 4 inches. They might remind you of a lovebird or fig parrot. They are the second smallest kind of parrot in the world.

The most common species kept as pets is the Pacific Parrotlet. The normal coloring for this species is green, but breeders have found several color mutations through selective breeding. These tiny birds are quite prolific and are popular for breeders as they ares are sexually dimorphic.  This means that males can be distinguished from females. Males have markings of cobalt blue on their head just by the eye (referred to some times as the "eyelash), wings and tail. Females lack these blue markings.

Parrotlets in the wild travel in flocks which, depending on the species can range from as few as four to over 100 birds. They are generally thought to mate for life. With a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, pellets and seeds, the life expectancy is about 20-30 years.

Some times refered to as "little amazons", these feisty little birds are very popular as pets. Any Parrotlet owner will tell you that these birds possess all the intelligence and attitude of the larger parrotlets. They are fairly quiet companions, making them ideal for those who live in apartments or condominiums.

Although they have extremely tiny voices, they can learn more than 10–15 words. Some are great whistlers, similar to the abilities of a cackatiel. It is very easy to teach commands to this little birds as they love to perform. Commands such as "step up", "kiss-kiss", "step down" can be learned in just a couple of sessions.

Whether or not your parrotlet can speak, whistle or follow commands generally depends on the owner and the personality of the bird. This is the same in most parrots.

Forpus, is the most well known genus of parrotlet. This includes all species of parrotlet commonly kept as pets including the Pacific Parrotlet, Mexican Parrotlet, and the Spectacled Parrotlet. The Pacific Parrotlet is the most common and now has several color mutations such as yellow, blue, lutino and white. The Mexican, Spectacled, and Yellow-Faced are becoming more common as pets.

The Spectacled parrotlet is generally a smaller sized green bird. They are thought to have a slightly sweeter temperment than the pacific, who can have a tendency to be a little nippy. The male Spectacled has the cobalt blue on his wings and tail and that a blue circle around the eye.

Mexican and Yellow-Faced parrotlets may be a little more difficult to find, but are available in many areas of the country.

The fact that that Parrotlets are quite small and have such a large personality has contributed to their popularity.They are playful birds that enjoy chewing and tearing things up as much as their larger Amazon Parrot cousins. They are extremely intelligent and active parrots which require ample opportunities to play and exercise, otherwise they may become bored and develop bad habits like feather plucking.