My Talking Baby Parrotlet Coby

by Barbara
(Mount Hope, Ontario, Canada)

Little did I know when I brought home my little 4 1/2" baby Pacific Parrotlet what a wonderful pet he would be! Yes, I had heard all about the attitude these little guys have and after my first bite, I truly believed it. Coby (short for Cobalt), was hatched in January, 2010. Since I live on my own, he has adapted quite well to being in my flock (or sometimes he thinks it's the other way around). He will also interact with others when they are birdsitting at their homes, but is always happy to see me when I bring him home.

Coby is not what I'd call a cuddler, as he doesn't like to be handled, but when sitting on my shoulder allows me to rub my cheek on his feathers. He doesn't have a loud squawking sound, but is persistent when he decides he wants attention. I can say to him "What's that?" and he will usually stop. Coby has been a real unexpected joy.

He was 3 months old when I got him and said "Pretty bird, Pretty Pretty Bird" at 4 1/2 months. By 6 months, he could sing "This is how the birdie sings, Tweet,tweet, etc.,Lets all sing like the birdie sings, Tweet, tweet", etc. He also says "Whoppo Chico", (Spanish for pretty boy), "Bye, Bye, See you later", "Peek-a-boo", "What's that", "What's this", "Good boy, Coby", "Kisses, kisses, (smooch, smooch)", "Hello Coby", and also "Would you like to come out?". He says this phrase in the morning while I'm preparing our breakfasts, as I bring him out once it's on the table. He is quite the mimic as he copied what I say to him when breakfasts ready. He now also says this if he wants out of the cage at any time. He also has picked up my laugh. I am more than amazed at how much he has learned in such a short time.

Coby is also quite the acrobat! He really enjoys the toys in his cage, as well as climbing and playing on the cage itself.

I'm looking forward to many years with Coby.