World Parrot Day

This post, World Parrot Day, may contain affiliate links, which means Happy Hive Homeschooling may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.

World Parrot Day is an annual event celebrated every year on May 20th to raise awareness of the need to protect and preserve parrots in the wild and in captivity. The day was started in 2003 by the World Parrot Trust, an organization dedicated to the conservation of parrots and their habitats.

Parrots are not only beloved pets, but also play crucial roles in their natural ecosystems.

Let’s dive into some fun facts about parrots, explore where they live, and discover engaging activities for kids to celebrate this day.

Fun Facts About Parrots

1. Amazing Talkers: Parrots are known for their ability to mimic human speech and other sounds. The African Grey Parrot is particularly famous for its talking abilities, with some even boasting vocabularies of over 1,000 words.
2. Incredible Longevity: Parrots have long lifespans compared to other birds. Some species, like the Macaw, can live up to 50 years or more, and there are records of parrots living into their 80s and 90s.
3. Bright and Colorful: Parrots come in a rainbow of colors. The Scarlet Macaw, for example, showcases vivid red, yellow, and blue feathers. These bright colors help them blend into their lush, tropical environments.
4. Diet Diversity: Parrots are omnivores, enjoying a varied diet that includes fruits, nuts, seeds, and sometimes small insects. Their strong beaks are perfect for cracking open tough nuts and seeds.
5. Smart and Playful: Parrots are among the most intelligent birds. They are problem solvers, able to use tools and understand complex concepts. Their playful nature often involves puzzles and games, which help stimulate their minds.

Where Do Parrots Live?

Parrots are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Their habitats range from rainforests to savannas, and even some desert areas. Here are a few notable regions:

• South America: Home to many parrot species, including the Macaws, Amazons, and Conures. The Amazon rainforest is a particularly rich habitat for these birds.
• Australia: Known for its unique parrot species like the Cockatoos and Budgerigars (budgies).
• Africa: The African Grey Parrot is native to the rainforests of West and Central Africa.
• Asia: The Indian Ringneck Parakeet is a well-known species found in South Asia.
• Oceania: The islands of the Pacific are home to various unique parrot species, such as the Kakapo from New Zealand.

Activities for Kids to Celebrate World Parrot Day

1. Parrot Crafts Encourage kids to get creative with parrot-themed crafts. They can make colorful parrot masks using paper plates, paint, and feathers, or create parrot drawings and paintings to display at home.

2. Parrot Watching Visit a local zoo or aviary to see parrots up close. This can be an exciting way for kids to learn about different parrot species and their behaviors. Some zoos may even have special World Parrot Day events or educational programs. Take a virtual tour of a parrot sanctuary like this one: https://www.freeflightbirds.org/

3. Learn Parrot Facts Organize a mini research project where kids can learn and present fun facts about parrots. They can create a poster or a digital slideshow to share their newfound knowledge with family and friends.

4. Parrot Story Time Read books about parrots together. Titles like “The Parrot Tico Tango” by Anna Witte or “If You Were a Parrot” by Katherine Rawson are great choices for young readers.

5. Parrot Treats Make parrot-themed snacks. You can use fruit slices to create colorful parrot faces or make “birdseed” cookies using healthy ingredients like oats, honey, and seeds.

6. Adopt a Parrot Many organizations offer symbolic parrot adoptions to support conservation efforts. This can be a wonderful way for kids to feel connected to the cause and learn about the importance of protecting these beautiful birds.

Celebrating World Parrot Day is a fantastic opportunity to educate kids about the importance of parrots and the need to conserve their natural habitats. Through fun activities and engaging learning experiences, children can develop a deeper appreciation for these incredible birds and the vibrant ecosystems they inhabit. Happy World Parrot Day!

Can’t celebrate this year – Mark your calendar & save this holiday for next year!

You can also pin the image below to your Pinterest boards to save this fantastic holiday!

Return to main calendar HERE

Want Ideas for celebrating in your inbox every day? Sign up for our Holiday of the Day newsletter and get everything you need for easy Holiday Celebrations!