Found in the Amazon river basin in Brazil, the Sulphur-breasted Conure or Parakeet (Aratinga pintoi) has actually been known to exist for about 100 years - it was only recently that its true distinctiveness was revealed and recognized (see Proposal 197, passed Sept. 5, 2008).

These parakeets are very similar in colouration to the juvenile Sun Parakeet (Aratinga solstitialis), which led to the delay in its identification as a separate species. The two adult parrots are quite different in colour: pinoi is paler, greener and more mottled. The Sulfur-breasted Parakeet is closely related to the Sun Parakeet of Guyana and northern Brazil (shown left), and the Golden-capped Parakeet of southern Brazil.

They are thought to be fairly common, although their conservation status will be evaluated by Birdlife, the authority for birds on the IUCN Red List.

Wouldn't it be fun to be one of those rare individuals with the means to help all your favourite causes with substantial monetary donations every year? These donors are the wonderful exception but not the rule.

At the World Parrot Trust most of our donations come in small increments by many valued supporters. Most people lament that they simply can't give more. Luckily, more and more creative ways of giving seem to arise every day, often coming from our supporters themselves.

Bringing a new parrot into the home is an exciting and sometimes challenging experience.

Parrot behaviour expert Barbara Heidenreich of Good Bird! Inc. reveals some important tips on how to make this major transition easier for all involved.

Beginner's Guide to Parrots »

Green is the colour of the moment (here's to making it permanent!) Living sustainably for the sake of the environment need not be limited to human activity -- pet parrots can benefit as well. Here are some quick tips on how to keep your pet environmentally friendly:

• Adopt from a shelter: there are plenty of parrots that need rescuing
   
• Feed organic/locally grown foods, or grow your own: your parrot will thank you for it
   
• Create safe, homemade toys: use glue-free cardboard, boxboard and non-poisonous branches, to name a few
   
• Keep your pet indoors or in a secure enclosure: protect local wildlife and your beloved pet
   
• Compost discarded food and other organic wastes: reduce and reuse
   
• Purchase green tags (renewable energy credits): offset your pet's carbon emissions
   
• Use solar and wind power where possible: heating and lighting your parrot's quarters

Phoenix Landing Foundation presents 'Life on the Wild Side', a unique fund raising event and seminar with WPT guest speakers on November 7, 2009 in North Virginia. Experience the serious and often humourous moments in parrot conservation work with these two engaging speakers.

For more information on how you can attend, visit the Phoenix Landing website »