Few other small parrots offer as many broad strokes of color and personality in one package as the Caique (kye-EEK). This South American psittacine with the funny-sounding name is not as well known or widely available as other pet parrots. However, its entertaining quirks and vibrant patchwork plumage may change that. There are four caique species in all; however, usually only two types are kept as pets: the black-headed caique (Pionites melanocephala) and the white-bellied (Pionites leucogaster). The former sports a jet-black head and beak, dark-green wings, back and tail; a burnt-orange neck; and a creamy-white breast and belly. The white-bellied Caique has an entirely orange head and a horn-colored beak. 

Countries of origin: The black-headed caique occurs north of the Amazon River and westward to parts of Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru. The white-bellied caique lives south of the Amazon in northern Brazil and parts of Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. 

Size: Small but relatively heavy, the black-headed Caique measure 9 inches long and weighs up to 170 grams (about six ounces). The slightly smaller white-bellied Caique measures 8 inches long and weighs up to 165 grams. 

Personality: Acrobatic and clownish, known both for the alarming habit of resting with feet in the air and the delightful behavior of hopping about like a wind-up toy. Enjoys large cages, lots of toys and plenty of attention. Will fearlessly attack larger birds. Whistles shrilly but is not as noisy as larger parrots. 

Talking ability: Moderate, with high-pitched voice similar to the budgie's. 

Average lifespan: 30 years