The Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus), more commonly known as the Quaker, attracts a loyal following for its relatively low cost and outgoing personality. The Quaker is mostly bright green, with a grey forehead, cheeks and chest. Although referred to as a parakeet, its tail is short, not long. The three subspecies are slightly smaller, have a yellower chest, or both. The hardy Quaker is one of the few types of parrots able to survive wild in the United States. In fact, it's illegal to own Quakers in some states because officials fear the establishment of more wild colonies, believed to adversely affect native bird populations. 

Countries of origin: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Uruguay Size: Small at 10 to 12 inches long, about the size of a cockatiel, but stockier, at up to 150 grams (about 5.5 ounces). 

Personality: Acrobatic, outgoing, self-assured, can be stubborn, fairly noisy and occasionally aggressive toward other animals and people. Appears to be more prone to feather-pluck and self-mutilate than other small parrots. Recommended for kids with supervision. 

Talking ability: Moderate to good, considered by some to be the best talker of the small-to-mid-size parrots. Good imitator. 

Average lifespan: 20-30 years.